# ReleasableAccidentes

BARDID: UT-2016-0043
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-07-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:30:00
CoordinatesConfidence: C
NameOfBodyOfWater: Flaming Gorge
NearestCityorTown: Manila
County: Daggett
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Electrocution
AccidentEvent2: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Weather
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
Reporting Ranger was dispatched to the Sheep Creek Boat Ramp on a report of an electrocution of two boaters.  Daggett County was on scene and requesting medical assistance.  I responded from the Steinaker State Park area.  At the request of Daggett County Sheriff, I responded code.  Upon my arrival I was briefed by Sheriff.  I was informed that two people had been riding a PWC and were struck by lightning near the boat-in-only campground "Hideout".  

Classic Lifeguard had flow to the scene and medically evacuated a 49 year female to the University of Utah hospital in critical condition.  The other injured person was deceased at the scene.   A third patient had been identified, however it was the father of the child/spouse of the female victim that was flown.  He was in shock and refused medical care.

Investigation:

I made contact with Chief Deputy and Sgt. and Sheriff.  They advised that they had been dispatched to the Sheep Creek Boat Ramp and further to Hideout Campground on a reported lightning strike that injured 3 people.  Sgt. had responded via water in the Daggett County Sheriff's Vessel and Chief Deputy and Sheriff via land to the boat ramp.  Upon arrival at the ramp, Chief Deputy was able to have a civilian vessel transport him to the Hideout campground.  Upon his arrival he found that a physician  was on scene assisting in the medical treatment of 2 females that had been struck by lightning while on the water aboard a PWC.  Gold Cross Ambulance Service from Vernal, Utah had been dispatched to the scene and while en route had requested medical transport helicopters be dispatched.  Upon arrival at the scene Classic Lifeguard Medical employees attached a cardiac monitoring  unit to the juvenile patient and had a reading of  asytole.  The pupils were dilated and fixed after about 45 minutes of CPR.  Therefore according to Chief Deputy, the patient was considered deceased and no further medical treatment was continued.  The medical treatment to the adult female was continued and she was transported by Classic Lifeguard to University of Utah Hospital for further treatment.  I was informed later in the day that she was listed as a critical patient in the ICU ward there.  Witness statements were obtained by the Daggett County Sheriff's Dept and I was provided a copy.  I was at the Sheep Creek Boat Ramp when Sgt. and Chief Deputy arrived, from the scene of the incident, with three family members and the deceased.

I was able to interview subject at the boat ramp.  Subject advised me that four (4) PWCs and a boat had departed Mustang campground where they were staying.  They had ridden upstream to the area of Hideout campground.  As they arrived, they observed that a dark cloud was approaching and they decided to stop at the campground to let it pass.  Three (3) of the PWCs had arrived at the dock and the fourth was approaching the dock.  At about 30 yards from the dock, a bolt of lightning flashed and struck the area the PWC was in.  When he looked back, he observed that his daughter and wife were both in the water, not on the PWC.  He was still on his PWC so he immediately accelerated out to where his daughter was floating face down in the water.  He grabbed the back of her life jacket and towed her to the dock where others in the party pulled her out of the water and started CPR.  Subject returned to his wife who was floating in the water, but her head was out of the water.  He then took her to the dock where others were waiting to assist her.  Medical treatment was administered by others on the dock including a nurse and a MD.

After the family left the area, I was able to obs…


BARDID: UT-2016-0044
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-08-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:25:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Sand Hollow Reservoir
NearestCityorTown: Hurricane
County: Wasatch
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
AccidentCause2: Weather
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On 1 August 2016, at approximately 20:00 a very intense storm suddenly developed producing very heavy rains and heavy winds from the north.  I went to the boat ramp at Sand Hollow to assist boaters getting off the water.  I observed approximately 5-6 foot waves hitting the docks.  Some concerned park guests approached me and said there was a capsized boat on the south beach and another boat was missing.  

I rushed to the south side of the park where I observed a boat near Cotton Tree Cove that appeared swamped. I contacted the individuals in the area and was informed all occupants were able to get off the vessel.  While speaking with the individuals, I was informed that the missing vessel was located safe on the far east shore.

SUBJECT was very irritated about the situation and wanted me to tow his vessel.  I informed SUBJECT that I could not tow the vessel at the time as there was lightning over head and I needed to attend to other guests.  I left a driver statement for SUBJECT as his group left the area to attempt to bail out the vessel and tow it to the south dock.

I left the area and attended to other incidents in the park and at Quail Creek as I was the only ranger on duty.

Follow Up:
SUBJECT and his party returned the following morning to give the information for the report including witness statements and insurance for the vessel.  Staff informed me that SUBJECT was very upset that I left the area and "did not help".  Witness statements indicate they were able to float the vessel and get it on a trailer.

End of Report.


BARDID: UT-2016-0045
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-07-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Powell
NearestCityorTown: Big Water
County: Kane
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
SYNOPSIS:
On July 4, 2016 at approximately 1400 hours dispatch notified me of a boat accident in Padre Canyon. I was first on scene and provided some first aid care to the patient.  The victim sustained a broken tibia when he crashed on a tube being towed by a boat. The patient was flown to Dixie Regional Medical Center in Saint George, Utah.  

INITIAL CALL:
On July 4, 2016 at approximately 1400 hours dispatch notified me of a boat accident that occurred in Padre Canyon. I responded to the area. While traveling to the scene dispatch notified responding units there was one victim who sustained a broken leg when he crashed on a tube. National Park Service (NPS) Ranger asked dispatch to notify Classic Air Medical. Dispatch informed us the victim had denied air transport, Ranger asked dispatch to keep them on standby. I arrived first on scene at approximately 1420 hours. 

MY ACTIONS:
I made contact with the victim and his family. I tied my boat parallel to his boat and proceeded to board his vessel. The victim was awake and coherent and was able to tell me his name, date of birth, and where he was currently located. His wife was holding his broken leg in order to stabilize it and limit his pain. 

I asked if VICTIM was prescribed any prescriptions or if he had any allergies. His wife informed me she gave him 15 milligrams of Vallum 30 minutes ago. I asked VICTIM if he wanted air transport to the hospital, he told me he wanted to be transported by boat. I informed VICTIM transport by boat was be slow and with it being July 4th the water would be choppy and not provide a smooth ride. I continued to tell VICTIM it would be over an hour until we got him to land and then it would be a two hour ambulance ride to the nearest hospital that could provide service to his injury. VICTIM then asked to be flown out by medical helicopter, I relayed this information to dispatch.

NPS Ranger arrived on scene and took over medical care on VICTIM, I assisted Ranger. Classic air medical arrived at approximately 1500 hours and took over medical care on VICTIM. I towed the boat to shore so VICTIM could be transported to the helicopter. I assisted in loading VICTIM into the helicopter. After the helicopter left I spoke with the operator of the boat during the accident. 

OPERATOR told me VICTIM was on a tube with three others when the tube hit a wave and thrust the passengers into the water. VICTIM landed awkwardly when he hit the water, his body fell to the one side except his left leg. OPERATOR informed me when VICTIM reached the surface he immediately told the members of the party he thought he broke his leg. VICTIM was loaded into the boat and transported to their house boat in the back of Kane Creek Canyon.

CONCLUSION:

VICTIM sustained a broken leg in a tubing accident in Padre Bay. VICTIM was transported to his houseboat in Padre Canyon and waited for  emergency units to arrive. VICTIM was loaded into a medical helicopter and taken to Saint George, Utah for medical care.


BARDID: UT-2016-0046
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-07-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Powell
NearestCityorTown: Monticello
County: San Juan
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentEvent3: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
SYNOPSIS:
On July 21, 2016 at approximately 2100 hours I was notified by dispatch a vessel accident occurred in the San Juan arm of Lake Powell. The victim had self transported to Antelope Point Marina and were in route to the hospital. I drove to the hospital and interviewed the operator and victim in the emergency room. I followed up with the investigation the next day inspecting the personal watercrafts and getting additional information.  The injuries were minor and no damage to the vessels.

INITIAL CALL:
On July 21,  2016 at approximately 2100 hours I was notified by dispatch a vessel accident occurred in the San Juan arm of Lake Powell. The victim had self transported to Antelope Point Marina by houseboat and were in route to the hospital. I drove to the hospital and interviewed the operator and victim in the emergency room. The husband of the victim informed me he struck his wife's personal watercraft with his personal watercraft. The following day I inspected the watercrafts and found no damage.

INCIDENT: 
OPERATOR1 told me at approximately 1230 hours he was operating a personal watercraft in a group with his wife and a friend.  OPERATOR1's wife was operating a personal watercraft and his friend was operating a ski boat. The group came to a large debris field and the ski boat traveled through the debris first in order to clear a path for the personal watercrafts. 

His wife, operator2, followed the boat and operator1 was bringing up the rear. OPERATOR2 stopped and operator1 struck her personal watercraft. OPERATOR2 was struck in the back of the head by the personal watercraft and her face struck the steering console of her personal watercraft. 

OPERATOR1 estimates he was traveling about 5 miles per hour. OPERATOR1 said he must have not been paying attention and did not notice his wife stop. OPERATOR2 was transported to Antelope Point Marina by houseboat. They notified dispatch through marine band radio frequency 16 they had an injured person onboard and requested an ambulance to the hospital. 

OPERATOR2  was transported to Banner Health Hospital in Page, AZ by National Park Service Rangers at approximately 2130 hours. She was evaluated for neck and spine damage and was released later that night. OPERATOR2 sustained minor injuries, a 2 inch cut on behind her right ear and a split lip. 

CONCLUSION:
On July 21, 2016 I was notified of a personal watercraft versus personal watercraft accident in the San Juan arm and the victim and other operator were in route to the hospital. I interviewed the involved parties and inspected the personal watercrafts for damage. The victim sustained minor injuries and there was no damage to the vessels.


BARDID: UT-2016-0049
State: UT
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2016-07-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Jordanelle Reservoir
NearestCityorTown: Heber City
County: Wasatch
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
SYNOPSIS: On July 24, 2016, Utah State Park Rangers responded to a submerged vessel at the main boat ramp of Jordanelle State Park on Jordanelle Reservoir. Rangers assisted the owner/operator out of the water and towed the vessel to shore where a tow truck was able to remove it from the water. 

INITIAL REPORT: On July 24, 2016 at 12:45 hours, I was walking down the boat ramp back to the courtesy docks, when I noticed what appeared to be a vessel sinking. 

NARRATIVE: I arrived at the docks to find the vessel almost completely submerged and a male in the water attempting to hold on the vessel. The male was assisted out of the water and I attached a tow rope to the bow eye of the vessel and began towing it towards the ramp. 

The vessel had flipped, with the hull facing up while in tow. I got the vessel as close to the ramp as I could before the rope was detached and given to Forest Ranger who was able to use a patrol vehicle to tow the vessel closer to shore. The owner/operator/male in the water was identified who reported he was unharmed and denied any medical attention. Multiple attempts were made to flip the vessel back over with no success. A tow company had to be called. The tow company was able to flip the vessel over and get it back on the trailer, but not without causing significant damage. Vessel appeared to be a total loss.

Operator reported that the engine overheated and that two exhaust hoses had melted and were pumping water into the engine compartment. He was able to get the vessel to the marina and while waiting for a friend to retrieve his trailer, the vessel sunk.

ACTION TAKEN: Vessel Assist, Vessel Inspection, BARD Report Completed.

DISPOSITION: Case will be closed.
	


BARDID: UT-2016-0051
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-08-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Powell
County: Kane
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
INITIAL CALL:

At approximately 1230 hours on 8/11/16 I called in service and on a local vessel patrol in the Bullfrog area. Immediately after this I was contacted by NPS Ranger and asked if I could respond to the Hall's Creek Bay area where there were reports of 1 swamped ski type boat near the mouth of Hall's Creek and 1 swamped/sunk houseboat in Hall's Creek. I agreed to respond to Hall's Creek and try to locate these vessels. Ranger stated that the swamped ski boat had been reported to him by another visitor who had towed the vessel to its current location and beached it after the vessel had struck a rock and received damage causing it to take on water. This visitor did not know the location of the vessel owner/operator at the time.

INVESTIGATION:

I took photo's of the vessel and it's swamped condition. I opened the glove box of the vessel and located the vessel registration certificate and photographed that as well, identifying the name of the owners. The vessel was securely attached to shore and could not be moved without a de-watering pump so I notified dispatch of the registration information and exact location. I asked them to contact Aramark's executive services office and inform them that when the owner of this vessel contacted them to tow/remove the vessel that the owner would need to speak to a law enforcement officer before any services could be provided. I then cleared the scene and began searching for the sunk/swamped houseboat.

At approximately 1600 hours on 8/11/16 I entered the Aramark executive services office to inquire if the owner of the Maxum vessel had contacted them. The owner of the vessel was sitting in the office waiting to see if they could de-water and tow the vessel that day. I informed him that I was there looking for him, which surprised him. I informed him he was required to report vessel accidents to law enforcement and that he needed an accident report completed for his accident. OPERATOR stated he had contacted his insurance company and thought he was reporting it by trying to get it towed back to the launch ramp. I informed him that was not properly reporting his accident to the nearest law enforcement officer but that we could overlook that oversight now that I had found him.

I had OPERATOR give me his insurance information and had him fill out a witness statement. I asked him what had occurred to cause his vessel to become swamped. OPERATOR stated that he had been with a boy scout group and they had gone to Rainbow Bridge. He stated when they were heading back up the lake a storm event had started so they had turned into a canyon to wait out the rain and strong winds. OPERATOR stated after the worst of the storm had passed they began boating back upstream. He stated he had 8 total people on the boat including himself two other adults with 5 boy scouts on the vessel. He stated that they were all wearing PFD's.

OPERATOR stated that just upstream of Cathedral Canyon he had been passing another vessel heading upstream on that vessel's left side and due to the low sun's reflection on the water and the choppy condition of the water/waves due to the storm, he did not see a shallow rock hazard and struck it with his vessel. He stated he knew it had broken at least one of the two propellers on the boat as well as cracking the outdrive and the boat was taking on water. He stated a friend he was traveling along with began to tow them upstream toward Bullfrog. OPERATOR stated after dropping off the group he returned to his vessel with his friend and found his bilge had stopped working and the vessel was now swamped at the site they beached it.

On 8/12/2016 NPS Ranger took photo's of OPERATOR's vessel once it was towed to Bullfrog and placed on it's trailer. The outdrive of the vessel had sustained significant damage and could no longer be raised. The outdrive had to be removed from the stern of the vessel to travel down the road. Ranger provided me with the photos he took for this report (attached).


BARDID: UT-2016-0052
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-06-01 00:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE POWELL
NearestCityorTown: BULLFROG
County: SAN JUAN
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
On 6/1/2016, at approximately 1300 hrs, while on patrol at the Dangling Rope Marina, Rangers contacted a visitor who requested a boat accident report be completed to document damage to his vessel that occurred earlier in the day. Rangers interviewed the operator, and collected the following information:

While underway on a course paralleling a canyon wall, the operator was distracted, looked away from his course, and the vessel turned into the canyon wall. The vessel's bow struck the canyon wall, resulting in damage to the bow, the anchor and associated hardware. No persons were injured during the incident.


BARDID: UT-2016-0053
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-07-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE POWELL
NearestCityorTown: BIG WATER
County: KANE
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause3: Excessive speed
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
On 07/06/2016, at approximately 1210 hours, I was dispatched to a report of an injured 55- year old women at the GLCA Stateline Boat Ramp fuel dock. The patient was complaining of pain in her upper right leg.

I responded in NPS vessel 244. Upon arriving at approximately 1215 hours, I observed the patient standing at the fuel dock office, periodically rubbing her right upper leg and hip area. I subsequently identified the patient, by word of mouth, as Victim, a citizen of Isreal. VICTIM was accompanied by a male, later identified by word of mouth as Victim's son. He served as an interpreter for VICTIM as she spoke only limited English. Another individual was identified as the operator of the rental vessel on which VICTIM was injured.

VICTIM’S SON explained that while under the operation of OPERATOR that the boat had hit another vessel's wake at too high a speed, causing VICTIM, who was seated near the bow seating area of the boat to fly upward in the air and come back down into the boat, striking the handle grip in the bow seating area with her right upper leg and hip. The incident occurred at approximately 1115 hours.

VICTIM was fully conscious and conversant with VICTIM’S SON. VICTIM’S SON reported his mother was feeling better, especially when standing. According to VICTIM’S SON, she denied any other pain, denied she had hit her head, but did indicate she felt a slight tingling in her right foot. VICTIM agreed to walk on her own to an NPS ambulance (Medic 1), operated by Ranger.

I transferred the care of VICTIM to Ranger and interviewed OPERATOR regarding the accident.

I cleared the scene at approximately 1230 hours.


BARDID: UT-2016-0054
State: UT
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2016-08-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Hyrum Reservoir
NearestCityorTown: Hyrum
County: Cache
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
I received a call from the office saying that a canoe had been sunk. I got ready and came into work to see if I could help find the canoe. I got a general location of where the party last saw the canoe. I made several passes through the area but wasn't able to find it, I could only see about a foot down. 

We had a ranger bring in his diving gear and go looking for it and he was unsuccessful at finding it. We also took one of our other canoes down to the reservoir to see if it would sink. We swamped the canoe and tried pushing it under the water but no matter how hard we tried we were unsuccessful at sinking the canoe. 

Operator the individual who rented our canoe said that they were paddling out and a boat came by causing them to tip the canoe over. He said the waves filled the canoe and before they could do anything about it, the canoe was out of site. Operator said they reported it to the office and tried looking for the canoe.


BARDID: UT-2016-0055
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-06-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:53:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE POWELL
NearestCityorTown: BULLFROG
County: KANE
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Weather
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
INVESTIGATION:
OPERATOR2 explained that he attempted to shift into reverse to avoid a collision, however the port engine did not shift into reverse. OPERATOR2 explained that he hit the stern with his houseboat which caused the slide to break loose as well as striking, and breaking off, two upright stanchions. I took pictures of the damage to both vessels. OPERATOR2 produced his registration and insurance information and filled out a witness statement.

VOLUNTARY STATEMENT: OPERATOR2
Docking in wind. As approaching slip wind changed direction. Shifted quickly into reverse and increased throttle. Shifters on this boat are remote-electric. Shifter on port engine stayed in forward, even though control lever was pulled backward. As a result, higher power pushed boat forward into slide on neighboring boat. Damage to slide was severe. Shifter on starboard engine stayed in neutral.


BARDID: UT-2016-0057
State: UT
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2016-07-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:42:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Deer Creek Reservoir
NearestCityorTown: CHARLESTON
County: Wasatch
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
I asked V1 subject what had happened. She stated that they were just getting done eating, taking a small break, and they were just drifting when vessel 2 was headed their direction. She stated that they tried to get their attention, but that it was too late and the vessel hit them. They yelled, waved, jumped up and down to try to get their attention. I asked Operator1 if he happened to honk the horn, which he stated there just wasn't time. He stated they were about 50 feet away when they noticed that the vessel wasn't going to turn. He stated that he would have just put it in drive, but that they had a tube floating with three children on the tube, so they attempted to yell and get the attention of driver of the other vessel. They stated that they couldn't get their attention and it was too late, they couldn't get their attention and the vessel hit their vessel. 

WITNESS STATEMENTS OF VESSEL 1

Statement from Operator1: "My family and I were floating stationary with the motor off. We had our safety flag raised as we had 3 kids in the water on a tube. I was sitting in the drivers seat and happened to look to my right when I saw a boat heading straight towards us. They were approximately 20 yards away and headed toward our broadside. I immediately began waiving my arms and yelling. Everyone on the approaching boat were facing the skier including the young driver. They turned to see us only when it was too late. They hit us going approximately 20 miles per hour and were pulling a boarder/skier at the time of impact. The impact was significant enough to severely crack and puncture our hull and it shattered the glass on the drivers side. Impact was hard enough that it lodged their boat (the bow) up onto the windshield area of our boat. As such their boat was severely tilted to the rear and they began to take on water very quickly on it, it sunk."

After talking to the occupants of vessel 1 I made contact with the driver of vessel 2 and his mom. I asked V2 subject what had happened when she stated that they were all looking at the person that was surfing and they didn't see anything. She stated by the time they noticed they had already hit the boat. When I asked operator2 what happened he stated that everyone in the boat was watching the surfer and he stated that he didn't see the boat and hit the boat.

Statement from Operator2: "I was driving and looked back for a few seconds and did not see the boat in front of me. Going about 13 miles per hour and T-boned the other boat. Our boat had the back ballast filled and when our boat was up on the other boat the back started to fill with water. Until it was filled enough to sink the back and eventually the entire thing."

ACCIDENT
It was determined that those that were in vessel 2, the Moomba, were paying attention to the surfer because he was doing so well. Even the driver Operator2 was watching. During this time is when they collided with vessel 1, the Rinker, who was just drifting. The impact on the port side of the vessel caused the bow of vessel 2 to smash into the windshield and then got stuck on vessel 1. During this time is when the stern of vessel 2 was already weighted down due to the ballast tank that were filled for the effect of the wake. The stern of vessel 2 took on more water, which caused the vessel to get unstuck from vessel 1 swamped vessel 2 completely.


BARDID: UT-2016-0058
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-08-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Powell
County: Kane
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent3: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Weather
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
INITIAL CALL:

At approximately 1230 hours on 8/11/16 I was notified by NPS Ranger that there was a report of a sinking or sunken houseboat on shore in Hall's Creek Bay. I agreed to try to locate the vessel.

RESPONSE:

At approximately 1245 hours I was patrolling into Hall's Creek Bay and observed a houseboat sideways on the shore near the back of the bay. An Ararmak barge and crane were on scene and had apparently just hoisted and pumped out a ski type vessel. I spoke to subject at the scene and found that the anchor ropes on the rental houseboat had broken during a wind storm the previous afternoon/evening. The houseboat had then turned sideways on shore and become grounded. In the process it had damaged two privately owned vessels that were tied to the rental houseboat.

INVESTIGATION:

I continued to speak with SUBJECT who stated she owned the Regal vessel that had just been craned up and pumped out by Aramark.  She stated they had a group of approximately 30 people there and that a different person had rented the houseboat but she did not know their current location.  She stated they were still scrambling to recover items that had blown away during the storm the previous day. I asked her to explain to me what all had taken place and when.  

SUBJECT stated that some time around 1700 hours on 8/10/16 a storm came up out of nowhere with rain and strong winds.  She stated that at that time some of their group were out on other boats, some were on shore and approximately 15 of them were on the rental houseboat (Vessel 1).  She stated the winds were causing waves of 3-5 feet and that at some point the ropes that tied the houseboat to the anchors broke from the strain by the storm. 

SUBJECT stated that the houseboat then turned sideways to shore with the wind and waves pushing it onto the sandstone shore.  She stated that at this time everyone evacuated the houseboat and that all the dishes and items loose and in cabinets were falling out and breaking from the wave action crashing into the houseboat.  SUBJECT stated that her personal ski type boat (Vessel 2) was tied to the stern of the houseboat at the time of the accident and that the turning of the houseboat caused her boat to also be smashed up on the shoreline and then swamped and flooded by the waves crashing onto the shore.  SUBJECT also stated that another private vessel had been tied to the port side of the houseboat at that time and it had also sustained damage.

I asked the Aramark employees on scene if they had taken any photos of the swamped Regal vessel before they had lifted and pumped it out. One individual stated he had and I asked him to email them to me. I then took photos of the Regal vessel after it had been pumped out. I took photos of the rental houseboat still stuck on shore while SUBJECT filled out a witness statement. I spoke with the owner of Vessel 3 and that it had taken substantial damage during the accident as well. I got his information and told him I would get photos of the damage to his vessel and the vessel information and add it to the report. 

Vessel 3 was slowly cruising around the area. Another member of the group stated she had taken photos during the storm of what had taken place in the accident events. I asked her to email those photos as well. I collected the witness statement from SUBJECT and then departed the scene and contacted Vessel 3. I collected the registration information from Vessel 3 and took photos of the damage.

CONCLUSION:

From the damage to the vessels involved and the statements made by SUBJECT it is clear what happened in this accident. A weather event with storm strength winds hit Hall's Creek Bay in the late afternoon/early evening on 8/10/16. These winds and the resulting wave action were strong enough to break the anchor ropes on Vessel 1 and cause it to become grounded parallel to shore. The shore line at this location is sandstone so there was damage done to the pontoons and engine lower units of Vessel 1 as it was forced onto the shore and then repeatedly hit by waves. Vessel 2 was tied onto the rear of Vessel 1 and was also damaged due to being grounded on the shore line. It also received water damage due to becoming swamped by the waves of the storm. Vessel 3 was tied to the port side of Vessel 1 and received damage from wave action causing Vessel 1 and 3 to slam into each other repeatedly during the storm event.

As of 8/18/16 I have not received photos from either the Aramark employee of Vessel 2 before it was lifted from the water or from the female member of the SUBJECT party who had taken photos during the accident event. I will add those to a supplemental report if/when I receive them.


BARDID: UT-2016-0059
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-06-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:49:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Strawberry Reservoir
NearestCityorTown: Heber City
County: Wasatch
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with floating object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent3: Person departed vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
SYNOPSIS 

Personal Water Craft (PWC) with three individuals on it, two under 18, missing for hours. Father called 911, and due to the quick response, the three individuals were found safely on shore. The PWC was recovered and loaded onto the trailer. 

PERSONAL WATERCRAFT

The PWC was sitting with the bow in the air and the stern was completely submerged. I informed command of my location. We pulled the PWC up out of the water, and that was when we noticed that the seat was gone and the PWC was just submerged. 

During the time that we were trying to see if there was anyone on the PWC that was when subjects called that they had found the three individuals at Chicken Creek West and that they were bringing them to Mud Creek. This was great news and we are thankful for the assistance.

The PWC was recovered and we assisted the family by putting the machine on the trailer.  

DAMAGE TO THE VESSEL 

On Aug 1st, 2016 it was still undetermined the damage of the vessel. The rental company, Rev 6 Sports, stated that they were still "unswamping" the vessel and didn't know the extent of the damage to the machine. They guessed that it would be from $3,000 to $4,000 to do all the repairs on the machine. 

STATEMENT OF OPERATOR

Operator stated that they were tubing and the machine sucked up the rope in the impeller. During that time they tried to get the rope out. He turned the vessel over to see if he could get the rope out of the prop. They couldn't get the rope out and so he took the seat off due to horrible weather, and all three of them swam for shore. I was very impressed with operator and his actions during this time on assisting his family to make it to shore safely. 


BARDID: UT-2016-0060
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-08-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Bear Lake
NearestCityorTown: Garden City
County: Rich
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Congested waters
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On August 20, 2016, at approximately 0945 hours, OPERATOR1 began launching a boat. While backing up, another vessel, operated by OPERATOR2, was waiting to pick up passengers in the main channel. OPERATOR2 was trying to move out of the channel. OPERATOR2 was perpendicular to OPERATOR1, and as OPERATOR2 pressed the throttle forward, the vessel "jumped" forward. This caused the vessel to crash into OPERATOR1. 

The bow eye of OPERATOR2's vessel rammed into OPERATOR1 vessel, causing damage. I was contacted about the incident at around 1000 hours. 

OPERATOR2 told me he had next to no experience on a vessel. He was helping his friend, who is the owner of the vessel.


BARDID: UT-2016-0062
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-07-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE POWELL
NearestCityorTown: BULLFROG
County: KANE
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
SUMMARY:
On 07/05/2016 at approximately 1040 hours  US Park Rangers were dispatched to a vessel (A 1998 white FGB) arriving at the Bullfrog Main Launch Ramp with a 9 year old that sustained a prop cut. Upon arrival Ranger started immediate medical treatment on the 9 year old with two lacerations to the right leg.

INITIAL:
On 07/05/2016 at approximately 1040 hours Ranger and I were dispatched to the Bullfrog Main Launch Ramp for a medical emergency. Dispatch advised us that a 9 year old boy had been struck by the prop of vessel on the right leg. Ranger and I arrived on scene at approximately 1045 hours in which Ranger began to provide medical treatment to 9 year old. At approximately 1058 hours Ranger arrived on scene with ambulance, Medic 5. At approximately 1106 hours victim was loaded into Medic 5 and was transported to the Bullfrog Clinic for treatment.

INVESTIGATION: 
When speaking with the father of Victim, he stated that his son VICTIM was swimming behind the boat when the boat started to drift due to wind. He stated that victim attempted to get out of the way as the boat drifted but could not. VICTIM had yelled he was hit by the prop in which time OPERATOR shut the boat off and pulled VICTIM aboard the boat. The two lacerations were covered as OPERATOR boated to Bullfrog Main Launch Ramp. I had OPERATOR complete a witness statement.


BARDID: UT-2016-0063
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-07-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE POWELL
NearestCityorTown: BULLFROG
County: KANE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On 07/11/16 at approximately 1140 hours, I was dispatched to Bullfrog Executive Services within Glen Canyon National Recreation Area reference a boat accident. Upon arrival, the reporting parties had returned to their houseboat on Covered Slips. I responded where I met with two witnesses, Subject1 and a 16 year old juvenile who had advised they had witnessed a hit and run boat accident. Subject1 described the suspect vessel as a white houseboat with a red sun on it, possibly "Sunburns" (later identified as a white 1995 Summerset Houseboat,  "Sunbums"' Vessel 1). 

Subject1 stated that Vessel 1 exited one or two slips down from the victim's docked houseboat "Anchor Management" (later identified as white 1999 Fantasy Houseboat, Vessel 2), docked. Subject1 stated she had observed Vessel 1 exiting their slip too fast that they almost hit the boats in front of them. Subject1 stated as Vessel 1 attempted to avoid those vessels they circled back and hit Vessel 2 on the stern by accident, no one looked or stopped to look for damage from Vessel 1, they just kept driving. Subject1 stated she believed Vessel 1 knew they hit Vessel 2 as there were two women standing outside on Vessel 1 which had laughed after the accident.

The 16 year old juvenile witness stated as she was walking back on the main dock she observed the "sunburn" houseboat with a red sun on it (Vessel 1) pulling out of their slip too fast. The juvenile stated she thought they were going to hit boats behind them but then they pulled forward to exit the slip. The juvenile stated the boat then swung around too hard and hit the back of docked houseboat "Anchor Management" (Vessel 2) causing damage to the back of the boat by the slide. The juvenile stated Vessel 1 then took off after the accident and did not stop to inspect Vessel 2 for damage. Both witnesses completed witness statements documenting the incident.

I responded to Vessel 2 and photographed the damage to the vessel as indicated by the witness's. Damage included scratches and dents to the rear stern edge of Vessel 2 (estimated damage $1000.00). I then responded to Executive Services to obtain owner information on Vessel 2 and possibly identify owner for Vessel 1. Executive Services provided me with the contact information for Vessel 2. I contacted Owner2 on 7/15/16 and advised him of the accident.

Based on the witness descriptions, Executive Services was able to identify Vessel 1 as a white 1995 Summerset houseboat, "Sunbums". As of 07/14/16, the operator of Vessel 1 had yet to report or return to the slip. On 07/14/16, I telephonically contact Owner1 and inquired if he knew who was currently operating Vessel 1 as a property damage had occurred. Owner1 stated he believed it was Operator1 but he would call me back once he confirmed.

Later, I observed Vessel 1 had returned and was docked, however it was unoccupied. I left my information on the front door of Vessel 1 and requested the owner contact Dispatch upon return. At approximately 1600 hours, Dispatch advised the owner of Vessel 1 was back at the houseboat. Upon responding to Vessel 1, I contacted Operator1, who advised he was the operator of the vessel on 07/11/16 at 1100 hours and had been involved in a boat accident. 

Operator1 stated after he had pulled out of his slip, the wind caught his houseboat (Vessel 1) and the rear starboard side metal portion of his boat hit the rear left stern of "Anchor Management" (Vessel 2) houseboat. Operator1 stated it was too windy to stop at the time of the incident. Operator1 showed me the damage to Vessel 1 which included a dent and scratches to the lower rear starboard swim platform (estimated damage $1000.00). I photographed the damage. Operator1 also confirmed the impact location with Vessel 2 below the slide.

A passenger on Vessel 1 at the time of the accident was identified as subject2 who stated Vessel 1 had backed our of the slip and the wind caught Vessel 1 and Operator1 "floored" it but Vessel 1 did not go very fast to avoid a collision.

Operator1 stated the morning of 07/14/16, he had left a note on Vessel 1. I advised Operator1 he needed to report the boat accident as soon as it was safe to do so, as the incident had yet to be reported to law enforcement, and the only reason I was contacting him was because of witness's. Operator1 was issued a citation for failure to remain on scene for a property damage accident and a citation for failure to maintain a proper lookout to avoid a collision. Operator1 was unable to provide proof of insurance on Vessel 1, however follow-up with Owner1, I obtained the insurance information.


BARDID: UT-2016-0064
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-08-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Starvation Reservoir
NearestCityorTown: Duchesne
County: Duchesne
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Sharp turn
AccidentCause3: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
SUMMARY:
A PWC accident occurred near the Indian Bay Campground of Starvation State Park, on August 5, 2016 at approximately 13:00 hours.  A Victim was injured in the accident and transported to the hospital in Roosevelt (UBMC) by a family member.  I was made aware of the accident later that night.  

FIRST CONTACT:
While on patrol of Starvation State Park, Duchesne County, Utah, I, Ranger, was contacting a group in Indian Bay Campsite 09.  The group in this campsite had a concern about people camping in a spot near them, and made a complaint near 22:30 hours.  While talking to the group, it was discovered that certain members of their party had been involved in a PWC (personal watercraft) accident earlier that day, August 5, 2016.  One of the involved individuals was at the hospital, being treated for his injuries.  I made arrangements to speak with the party the following morning.  

The following day, I contacted a member from the previously mentioned party.  SUBJECT informed me that she was one of the involved members of the accident.  She informed me that she and her father, a Victim, were the two involved in the accident.  I asked her to fill out a witness statement and then tell me what happened.   

SUBJECT's ACCOUNT:
It was discovered, that SUBJECT and OPERATOR1 were driving separate PWCs.  OPERATOR1's PWC will be referred to Vessel 1 and SUBJECT's Vessel 2.  SUBJECT and OPERATOR1 had been playing on the water for a while, and were about to return to camp at approximately 13:00 hours.  SUBJECT made a wide sweeping turn to the left to head back towards the shore, north of Campsite 08.  OPERATOR1 also made to turn back to shore as well, but did not see SUBJECT turning.  OPERATOR1 turned right in front of SUBJECT.  SUBJECT did not have time to adjust course, striking Vessel 1 on the bow.  SUBJECT jumped off Vessel 2, in an attempt to lessen the momentum of the Vessel 2.  Vessel 2's momentum carried it over the bow of Vessel 1, and struck OPERATOR1 in the chest and face.  OPERATOR1 was thrown off Vessel 1.  When SUBJECT came up out of the water, OPERATOR1 was attempting to get back on Vessel 1.  She assisted him and they returned to shore.  

The whole party was brought to the shore by SUBJECT's daughter, who witnessed the aftermath of the accident.  After OPERATOR1 was on shore, he was placed in the backseat of a truck by multiple family members.  His son drove him to Uintah Basin Medical Center (UBMC) in Roosevelt, Utah. He was treated for his injuries, including a broken jaw, broken ribs, injured sternum, and multiple contusions, at UBMC.  SUBJECT did not sustain any injuries.  

When questioned about alcohol, multiple family members denied any of them consuming any alcoholic beverages, not just that day, but regularly.   

All damage to the vessels was from previous occasions.

I was then given contact information for OPERATOR1, who was waiting for surgery at UBMC.  


BARDID: UT-2016-0065
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-07-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE POWELL
NearestCityorTown: HALLS CROSSING
County: SAN JUAN
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On 7/14/16 at approximately 0930 hours, I was dispatched to a boat accident at Halls Crossing Marina within Glen Canyon National Recreation Area and advised the subjects were currently at Aramark Office. Upon arrival on scene, I was flagged down by an Aramark employee who stated the boat accident was past occurred from 7/11/16 and he had heard about it third party through other Aramark dock hand employees. I was advised the two boats involved were "Moenkopi", a white 2009 Summerset houseboat, docked on Covered Slips, Vessel 1 and "Windsor", a white 1998 Jamestowner houseboat, docked at slip, Vessel 2. I was advised Vessel 1 had hit the slide of Vessel 2.

Upon responding to slip, I observed Vessel 1 was currently docked, however an occupied runabout boat was currently leaving the area at the stern of Vessel 1. I requested the runabout return so I could speak with them about the boat accident. A male subject stated he knew of the accident but did not witness it. He stated that operator1 was the operator of Vessel 1 when the incident occurred and that Operator1 might still be at Halls Crossing Marina parking lot in a motor home. Furthermore, he pointed out the damage to the rear port side of Vessel 1 which consisted of a scratch (estimated damage $200.00). I photographed the damage to Vessel 1. I attempted to locate Operator1 in the parking lot, however he had already left.

I responded back, where I observed Subject2, permitted for Commercial Services, working on the slide of Vessel 2. Subject2 stated he had been requested by Operator1 to fix Vessel 2. Subject2 stated he asked Operator1 if he had reported the accident to the National Parks Service. Subject2 stated he regularly services Vessel 2, so he had contacted the owner. Subject2 stated he was authorized to attempt to make the slide serviceable. Subject2 advised prior to my arrival he had straightened two of the large metal plates on the top and bottom of the slide so it would rest flat again. Subject2 stated he had also repaired the fiberglass at the end of the slide which had been cracked and damaged. Subject2 stated several attachment welds between the boat and slide were broken and he would have to remove Vessel 2 from Lake Powell to be able  to fix the welds. Subject2 stated he would potentially have to replace the whole slide. Subject2 estimated the total bill for services around $3000.00. I photographed the damage and repairs observed.

Upon responding to the Halls Crossing Aramark Office. I spoke with Aramark Manager who stated when Operator1 was leaving on 07/14/16 he had stopped at her office to obtain contact information for the owner of Vessel 2. Manager stated she had told Operator1 to wait on scene as she had notified the National Park Service of the boat accident and a Ranger was responding to take the report, however Operator1 left. As of 7/14/16, Operator1 had yet to contact law enforcement to advise of the boat accident.

On 07/15/16 at approximately 1500 hours, I telephonically contacted Operator1 again and he answered the phone. Operator1 stated on 07/11/16 at approximately 1900 hours he was the operator of Vessel1 when he was involved in a boat accident with Vessel 2. 

Operator1 stated he backed Vessel 1 out of the slip and didn't give himself enough room and that he should have backed out further. Operator1 stated the left rear corner Vessel 1 caught and hit the slide of Vessel 2. Operator1 stated he solicited Subject2 to make temporary repairs on Vessel 2. Operator1 stated he had notified his insurance company and was currently working with them on the accident. Operator1 stated he had first contacted Subject2 on 07/14/16 and told him he had "clipped" Vessel 2 and questioned Subject2 if he could fix it. Operator1 stated Subject2 asked him if he had reported the accident to the National Park Service. 

I advised operator1 he needed to report the boat accident as soon as possible after it had occurred and was safe to do so. I advised Operator1 he would be receiving  a citation via mail for failure to report a boat accident.


BARDID: UT-2016-0066
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-08-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: PINEVIEW RESERVOIR
NearestCityorTown: HUNTSVILLE
County: MORGAN
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Missing or inadequate navigation aids
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Boat was cruising at approximately 20 mph and suddenly hit an unmarked sandbar several hundred feet from shore and stopped the boat suddenly. There was no apparent damage to the boat noticed at the time, but a full evaluation has not yet been performed.


BARDID: UT-2016-0067
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-07-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:58:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Willard Bay
NearestCityorTown: Willard
County: Box Elder
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentCause3: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 24 about 1200 hours Vessel 1 and 2 were traveling Eastbound towards Eagle Beach on Willard Bay Reservoir above wake less. Both Vessels had two occupants. 

Vessel one changed direction towards Vessel 2. The damage indicates Vessel 1 impacted on the port side near the operator console. Injuries from occupants on Vessel 2 indicate Vessel 1 yawed and the starboard side impacted the left legs of the operator and passenger of Vessel 2, ejecting the operator. 

Striation marks were located on Vessel indicating the yaw and secondary impact (see picture). Injuries occurred to occupants of VESSEL 2. Occupant suffered a broken left leg and was transported to Primary Children's Hospital by helicopter. Operator suffered an avulsion to his left leg and was transported to Brigham City Hospital by ambulance. 

Diagram and pictures are attached. Report is not complete due to witness statements not received yet. An Information Report will be filed through Box Elder County Attorneys Office.


BARDID: UT-2016-0070
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-08-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:25:00
CoordinatesConfidence: C
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Powell
County: San Juan
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentEvent2: Person departed vessel
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
SYNOPSIS:

On 8/23/16 I was called out to investigate a fatal boat accident. I responded to the Hall's Crossing Marina where the involved parties and vessels were located. During the course of the investigation I learned that a two year old boy had fallen off the top of a houseboat while it was underway between channel marker buoys 91 and 92. The child's mother had jumped in and swam to him to rescue him and in her efforts to save him she had perished, presumably from drowning. The deceased brother had retrieved both her and the child in a ski typed vessel and driven them into the Hall's Crossing Marina for assistance. Good Samaritan's had preformed CPR until NPS Rangers arrived on scene.

INITIAL CALL:

At approximately 1535 hours on 8/23/16 I was called at home by NPS dispatch and informed they had a deceased person, likely from drowning, at the Hall's Crossing Marina as well as a two year old boy who was stable but had also nearly drowned. They asked if I would be responding and I asked if the fatality had occurred due to circumstances that may involve a boat accident.  NPS dispatch was unsure as to the circumstances so I asked them to find out and call me back. I was then contacted by NPS District Ranger, whom was on scene, and informed of the basic details of the incident. I informed her that it was a boat accident and I would be responding to investigate the accident. Ranger  told me the two year old boy and another adult from the party would be flying via Guardian Air Medical to Flagstaff for further treatment on the child. I asked her to get the personal information from the two involved parties before they left.

RESPONSE:

I responded from my residence to the government docks at Bullfrog and then in my patrol vessel from Bullfrog to Hall's Crossing Marina. As I arrived at the Hall's Crossing Marina I observed NPS Ranger  carrying a male child down the marina walkway toward the Guardian helicopter. The helicopter departed the scene shortly afterward.

INVESTIGATION:

At the Hall's Marina I met with NPS Rangers . They informed me the deceased female was located in a nearby green and white ski type vessel tied to the docks in front of the marina store. They informed me that a two year old boy had somehow fallen off a houseboat while it was underway and that the child's mother had also jumped off the same houseboat and swam to the boy to rescue him. They stated the mother had apparently drowned while saving her child. I asked where the houseboat was and NPS Ranger  offered to show me which slip it was docked in.

Ranger  pointed out the houseboat and a male individual who was walking towards us. Ranger  informed me this male was the brother of the deceased female. I introduced myself and informed him I would be conducting the boat accident investigation and report. I asked him to recall the events of the incident for me.  OPERATOR stated that there were 6 people on the houseboat at the time, three adults including his sister (Deceased victim), his mother and himself, as well as three children including the boy who had fallen off the houseboat (Injured victim).  OPERATOR stated they were between channel marker buoys 91 and 92 heading upstream in route back to the Hall's Marina to conclude their trip (they arrived on 8/18/16 and were planning to depart the area on 8/24/16). He stated the kids were upstairs on the top deck of the houseboat and he had heard a splash. He stated his sister VICTIM had apparently seen that the splash had been Injured victim falling into the water and that she immediately jumped off the houseboat and began swimming to him while he stopped the houseboat.

OPERATOR stated that after he had stopped the houseboat he had run to the back of the houseboat and observed deceased VICTIM swimming to Injured victim. He stated the houseboat was approximately 50-100 yards away at this time. OPERATOR then jumped into the lake and began swimming toward them. At some point in his swim he decided to swim back to his ski type vessel which had been being towed behind the houseboat. He stated he started this vessel and his mother had cut the tow rope that was attached to it. He stated he then drove the boat to his sister's location. He stated his sister was underwater holding Injured victim up out of the water. He pulled Injured victim and then Deceased victim onto the ski type vessel. He stated that he noticed that Injured victim was breathing and seemed okay but that his sister was not breathing. OPERATOR then drove directly to the Hall's Crossing Marina to get help, leaving his mother and two children on the houseboat, and calling for help on his marine radio. He stated when he arrived at the marina docks he was yelling for help. He stated that people got on his boat and started CPR on his sister. OPERATOR confirmed me that Injured victim had not been wearing a PFD when he had fallen off the houseboat. OPERATOR completed a witness statement. (attached).

I obtained the vessel registration information from both the houseboat and the ski type vessel. I took photo's of both vessels, including several photo's of the top deck of the houseboat and it's railing (attached). The railing around the top deck is approximately 18-20 inches tall. From the design of the vessel's top deck I believe Injured victim most likely fell from one of the sides of the vessel into the water. If he had fallen over the front or back railing he would have landed on the front or rear patio covers for the lower level and it would be unlikely he would have fallen into the water.

I then met with Ranger and witnessed her writing down subject3’s statement as SUBJECT3 orally dictated her account of the incident (attached). SUBJECT3 stated she had been on the lower deck out front, just about to climb up to the upper deck to check on the kids when she heard a scream. She stated that Deceased victim dove into the water after Injured victim and that she had tried to untie the rope to the ski boat for OPERATOR but couldn't so she cut it.

Ranger provided me with the copies of witness statements from OPERATOR, SUBJECT3 and from two good Samaritan's who had performed CPR on VICTIM. I met with the San Juan County Sheriff Deputy who arrived to complete the death investigation. I gave him my contact information and told him I would be completing a boat accident report for the incident. I spoke with NPS Ranger and Medic about the condition of Injured victim. He stated that Injured victim was very responsive and aware during his treatment of him. Ranger did not believe that Injured victim had any significant oxygen deprivation from being in the water.

CONCLUSION:

After interviewing OPERATOR and reviewing witness statements I have come to the following conclusions:

At some time between 1400 hours and 1430 hours the party was traveling upstream on Vessel 1 between buoy 91 and 92. The three adults on board were all on the lower deck and the three children on board were on the upper deck. Injured victim fell over the railing on the upper deck on either the port or starboard side. Injured victim was not wearing a PFD. The adults heard the splash from Injured victim falling overboard and Deceased victim immediately identified that it had been Injured victim and dove off of the houseboat and swam toward him to rescue him. The houseboat was underway at the time towing Vessel 2. The top speed of Vessel 1 is likely just under 10 mph So the speed at the time of the accident was likely between 5-10 mph. 

When Deceased victim dove into the water, Operator shifted the houseboat into neutral and went to the back of the houseboat where he observed Deceased victim swimming to Injured victim. Operator then dove in to assist and after swimming a short distance wisely decided


BARDID: UT-2016-0074
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-07-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: East Canyon Reservoir
NearestCityorTown: Morgan
County: Morgan
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Preliminary:  Boat accident at East Canyon State Park.  Victim reported the accident to law enforcement and sent to hospital.  Report generated.

The Call:  While on duty a customer came to the park office to report that her husband, VICTIM was injured in a personal watercraft accident.  I asked where VICTIM was now and she told me he was in the parking lot.  I then went out and spoke to VICTIM what had happened, but he was not very coherent as he spoke.  VICTIM told me he was by the shore line and didn't turn and ran into the rocks.  I then spoke to Victim’s wife and told her where the local hospitals for treatment.  I then gathered VICTIM's information. VICTIM then was transported to the hospital for further evaluation.

Witness told me that his dad was riding and hitting the wakes when his dad headed towards the rocky shore and thought he might have caught air and couldn't turn the machine and drove straight into the rocks.  I asked if they had alcohol today, he told me they did not. I then ask him to fill out a witness statement.  

I then took photos of the damaged PWC and noticed most of the damage on the bottom of the hull for this report.

End of Report.


BARDID: UT-2016-0075
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-08-31 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 23:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Jordanelle Reservoir
NearestCityorTown: Heber City
County: Wasatch
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
Operator was underway near the East shore of Jordanelle Reservoir. It was after 11:00 PM and it was a new moon, so it was extremely dark and visibility was very low. As OPERATOR was underway, he ran aground on a peninsula that had become exposed with the dropping water levels. The area OPERATOR hit was roughly 60 feet long  by 25 feet across and was out of the water 3-4 feet. 

The vessel traveled up on to the ground about 15 - 20 feet. The bottom hull of the vessel was scratched and gouged from the rocks and earth. OPERATOR asked that I assist him by pulling the vessel the rest of the 5-10 across the ground and back into the water. The vessel was successfully placed back in the water by using a tow rope and my patrol vessel. OPERATOR was able to make it back to the marina and load the vessel on its trailer with no further complications. OPERATOR contacted me the next day and asked me to complete this report as he had learned the damage was more than originally thought.


BARDID: UT-2016-0078
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-08-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:55:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Bear Lake
NearestCityorTown: Garden City
County: Rich
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
Accident:
 
Subject was operating the boat and trying to adjust the mooring position. A wind storm came up and victim wanted the boat facing a different direction. VICTIM was planning on spending the night on the vessel.  had the motor running and VICTIM was at the stern, in the water. 

VICTIM told to operator to put the vessel in reverse. operator did not like the idea, thinking VICTIM was not in a good spot, but VICTIM kept telling him to do it. operator put the vessel in reverse, and the prop hit VICTIM in the chest. operator immediately put the vessel in neutral

Response and Treatment: 

I got the call at 1657 hours. When I arrived on scene, VICTIM was on his stomach on the back of the vessel. After assessing the wound, we called for AirMed. After loading VICTIM into the ambulance, we waited for AirMed. VICTIM was flown to McKay-Dee Hospital.

Conclusion:

While waiting for the helicopter, I talked to operator about what happened. While on the vessel, I noticed a couple of empty beer bottles. operator told me they had three beers early that day, but nothing before the accident. I saw no signs of impairment, so I did not go any further with the investigation.


BARDID: UT-2016-0079
State: UT
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2016-08-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Willard Bay
NearestCityorTown: Willard
County: Box Elder
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
AccidentCause2: Weather
AccidentCause3: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was fishing when a thunderstorm blew over Willard Bay Reservoir.  The vessels anchor line wasn't long enough to keep the vessel in place so the operator decided to move the vessel toward the middle of the lake.  The vessel hit a swell causing the motor to cut out.  The operator was unable to get the vessel started again.  The wind pushed the boat into the rocky dike on the west end of the reservoir.  The anchor was placed on the rocks but the force of the wind swamped the boat to the point only the bow was visible on the water.


BARDID: UT-2016-0080
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-08-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:52:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Willard Bay
NearestCityorTown: Willard
County: Box Elder
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
AccidentCause1: Ignition of spilled fuel or vapor
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
INCIDENT:
Approximately 1520 I was contacted by a seasonal park employee and informed that a boat was on fire at the dock in the north Marina.

When I arrived I saw no visible flames coming from the vessel with three men standing on the dock with the boat tied to the dock. I could see clear signs that a fire extinguisher was used. White powder was around the engine compartment and the water next to the boat was cloudy from the extinguisher.

The owner and operator said they had unloaded the boat and drove it over to the dock to verify the water pump was working before they went out for the day when the engine caught on fire to which he used his fire extinguisher to put out the flames.

CONCLUSION:
The boat seemed to suffer minor damages and didn't appear to be taking on water. 

A patron towed the broken down vessel to the boat ramp to be loaded onto trailer.

He indicated he did not have insurance on the vessel and was cited for not having coverage.


BARDID: UT-2016-0081
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-08-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Willard Bay
NearestCityorTown: Willard
County: Box Elder
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On August 20, 2016 about 1500 hours Vessel 2 was traveling Eastbound on Willard Bay Reservoir toward Eagle Beach. Vessel 1 was East of Vessel 2. Vessel 1 was facing East and beached. No occupants were in Vessel 1. Vessel 2 struck Vessel 1 in the starboard side stern and broke the swim deck. Subject described to me that as he was getting closer to the boat he let go of the throttle and tried to steer away. He described off-throttle steering. No one was injured.


BARDID: UT-2016-0082
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-09-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:01:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Willard Bay
NearestCityorTown: willard
County: Box Elder
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On September 6, 2016 two vessels were out on Willard Bay Reservoir.  Vessel one was towing a tube with three occupants and vessel two was towing a knee boarder.  Both vessel one and vessel two were under way when vessel two struck vessel one on the port side.  

Both operators stated they did not see the other vessel until it was too late.  Vessel one stated the impact from vessel two spun the boat around causing him to believe he caught the propeller on something.  Operator one stated he was watching another boat off in the distance.  Vessel two's operator stated he was watching the child on the knee board through a mounted mirror.


BARDID: UT-2016-0084
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-09-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Strawberry Reservoir
NearestCityorTown: Fruitland
County: Wasatch
WaterConditions: Unknown
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Restricted vision
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
SYNOPSIS
I was called to investigate a past occurred boat accident at Strawberry Reservoir. A pontoon boat had been hit by a sailboat, but which sail boat was unknown. It was determined that the sailboat owned by v2 owner hit the pontoon boat on September 3rd or 4th. The sailboat was being operated by operator2. 

REPORT
INITIAL REPORT
On September 13th, I responded to Strawberry Marina to investigate an accident that had occurred the week before. I made contact with worker at the marina store, and he told me that one of the pontoon boats that are stored on the marina slips was hit by a sailboat. It was reported by subject1 who left a note that stated a sailboat had hit the pontoon, but there was not much more info. 

I went down and inspected the pontoon boat, vessel 1, that was hit. It was parked on the north side of the gangway on moon dock, and was on the last finger to the east. Just east of vessel 1 at the end of the gangway was a party dock that had a white tent on it. The aluminum siding on vessel 1 was pushed up and bent in a V shape. There were very few scratches in the area. It appeared that another boat with a V shaped hull had hit the pontoon boat and backed straight out. This lead me to believe that the vessel that struck vessel 1 would have a little paint transfer and not much damage. 

While I was inspecting and photographing vessel 1, subject from the marina store, called a sailboat customer who also stayed on the slips to see if he had heard any rumors on who had hit vessel 1. The person he called was subject2 who said that he had hit the docks on near vessel 1 a week before but did not hit vessel 1. 

SUSPECT BOAT LOCATED
Subject2 had his sailboat, vessel 2, in the marina's dry storage. Subject2 said that I could go look at vessel 2. When I inspected vessel 2, I saw black paint transfer on the front edge of the hull of the boat approximately 2 inches long. This transfer was on the leading edge of a scratch that ran from the front of the vessel toward the rear approximately 3 feet, ending at the top railing of the sailboat. This damage was consistent with what I believed the striking boat would have. 


OWNER2
I then called OWNER2. He told me he hit the party dock on Sunday, September 4th in the evening. He could not give a specific time but told me around 9ish, and that it was dark. He told me his friend RICK, later identified as OPERATOR2, was driving and he was below deck with his wife and grandson. He felt vessel 2 hit something, and right after the operator put the boat into full reverse. He told me that vessel 2 was off to the side of the party dock and that he believed they hit the party dock. He told me he thought the dock was on the starboard side of vessel 2. I asked if anyone called out to him from the docks, and he told me no. He said he checked the starboard side of vessel 2 after they docked and saw some scratches. This made him believe he hit the dock. He did not check the front of vessel 2. 

OPERATOR2
Next I called OPERATOR2. He told me he was driving vessel 2 and that it was dark. He was bringing the boat into the marina to dock. He was trying to stay away from the brakewater and was going slow, no more than 3 knots. He said vessel 2 then hit the party dock on the port side. I confirmed that the party dock was on the port side of vessel 2 and he said yes. He told me there were three people on deck. Some people on the dock with flashlights walked down and called out to them, but all they asked was if they were ok. OPERATOR2 told them they were, and that their boat was fine. The people on the dock did not mention anything about damage. OPERATOR2 also believed that his boat did not go past the party dock. The steering for the sailboat is on the starboard side of vessel 2. 

SUBJECT3
The next day, September 14th, I talked to SUBJECT3, SUBJECT3 told me that the incident happened on Saturday, September 3rd. He told me Operator2 was driving and he was sitting on the port side of vessel 2. They were passing the breakwater and as they came in he felt vessel 2 hit something. He looked down and saw the material from the tent on the party dock and the railing around the north side of the party dock. I asked if the party dock was on the port side of vessel 2 and he said yes. As soon as the boat hit something, OPERATOR2 put the boat into reverse and backed out. He said it sounded like they hit wood. He said three guys with flashlights came and checked the dock and there was no damage. The guys called out and asked if the people on the boat were ok. They called back and said they were, and they didn't see the party dock. SUBJECT3 was sure that vessel 2 did pass the end of the party dock.

CONCLUSION
It is unclear exactly which evening, Saturday or Sunday, this accident occurred, as there are conflicting dates from everyone involved. After inspecting the damage on vessel 1 and vessel 2, I conclude that vessel 2 was the striking vessel that damaged vessel 1.
OPERATOR2 was issued a citation for Failure to Remain at the Scene of an Accident Involving Property Damage (73-18-13.1)


BARDID: UT-2016-0085
State: UT
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2016-07-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Echo Reservoir
NearestCityorTown: Coalville
County: Summit
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentEvent3: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
While on patrol dispatch advised that there was a medical at North Beach at Echo Reservoir. Dispatch advised that there was a JetSki involved. After hearing dispatch's call out I advised dispatch that I would be en route since a vessel was involved. 

When I arrived on scene the ambulance was already with the patient on the dock. The patient appeared to have a broken leg. OPERATOR2 was also there being attended to by the ambulance crew. OPERATOR2 had a minor cut to his head. From the information that I gathered from OPERATOR2 and OPERATOR1 I put together this accident report.

Vessel 1, being operated by OPERATOR1 was traveling at approximately 15 miles per hour. Vessel 2, being operated by OPERATOR2 was traveling at approximately 20 miles per hour. Vessel 2 was in front of vessel 1 and did not have a visual of vessel 1. Both vessels were traveling South.

Vessel 2 made a hard turn to Port. When vessel 2 did this he hit vessel 1 in the starboard side striking the operators right leg.

There was significant damage done to vessel 1 and it began to partially sink. A bystander saw what had happened and brought in the operator of vessel 1 and also brought in vessel 1.
Medical was called to the scene and they transported the operator of vessel 1 to the University of Utah Hospital via ambulance.

The operator of vessel 1 sustained a broken tibia and fibula on the right leg.

End of Report.


BARDID: UT-2016-0086
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-08-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 08:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE POWELL
NearestCityorTown: PAGE
County: KANE
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On 8/12/2016 at about 08:30 I became aware of a vessel accident that occurred just prior just outside of Dangling Rope Canyon. The current water level was noted at 3617.71 and at that water level there is a shoal outside the mouth of Dangling Rope Canyon that is submerged just underwater. At the time of the accident there was a rock hazard buoy present on the shoal.

I met the owner, and operator at the time of the accident at Dangling Rope Marina where they had been towed by a good samaritan. The vessel was taking on water and the bilge was actively pumping out water at a constant rate. I observed the stern of the vessel and could tell there was water flooding in from the engine compartment through the fiberglass hull. The engine was still operational and the electronics were still working. Ranger and I secured the vessel to the dock and were able to use a de-watering pump to supplement the bilge pump as we called for a salvage company to retrieve the vessel. The vessel was found to be in compliance with all required documentation and safety equipment. I detected there was no evidence of impairment or alcohol/drug use on the vessel.

I spoke to OPERATOR and determined the accident happened as the couple left their beach camp near buoy 36A and boated into the marina for supplies. OPERATOR stated he noticed the rock buoy marker but did not realize the shoal was as large as it was. He was running at "cruising speed" estimated at 25 mph. He evidently failed to utilize the main channel and approach the canyon at a right angle from the mouth where the canyon marker buoy is placed. Instead OPERATOR cut the corner and proceeded directly from the main channel near buoy40 into the mouth of Dangling Rope Canyon passing near the rock hazard buoy and striking the large underwater shoal. OPERATOR stated that he never saw the shallow area just below the surface until the boat ran hard aground and came to a sop on the rocks.

Antelope Point sent a salvage vessel that secured slowing the leaks and providing a tow to Quigleys trailer at Antelope Point around 13:00 hours.

I issued a warning about following navigational aids to OPERATOR and made this accident report at the request due to the possibility of extensive damage to the vessel and insurance reporting purposes.


BARDID: UT-2016-0088
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-08-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE POWELL
NearestCityorTown: PAGE
County: KANE
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentCause1: Restricted vision
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
On 8/30/2016 I was called by dispatch to respond to a boat accident in West Canyon at approx. 1905MST. While searching within West Canyon in the complete darkness after sunset, I located two males swimming out of the canyon who advised they had been in an accident and were "going for help". The males had been worried that they were unable to summon help with the radio or cell phone from the back of the canyon. We proceeded to the accident site near the back of West Canyon and located the Mastercraft beached on the north side of the canyon near a long sandstone shoal about 8 inches underwater at the current water level of 3613.71 feet. 

I identified the operator. OPERATOR stated he was exiting the canyon and it was near sunset so he had a glare in his eye and on the surface of the water. OPERATOR stated he has been on Lake Powell numerous times and was aware of the underwater rock hazards present, especially in side canyons but stated he did not see this particular rock hazard. The party stated they felt the hazard should have been marked.

At the time of the accident OPERATOR stated he was cruising at approx. 20 mph estimated and was not towing or changing direction. OPERATOR stated they had observed other rock shallows in the canyon but he did not see the shoal which extends from the north shore of the canyon across 2/3 of the canyon. OPERATOR stated his vision was not obstructed by his passengers but he did have a near full boat by weight and capacity. OPERATOR stated his vision was obstructed by sun glare. Per OPERATOR, when the vessel struck ground it lurched the bow up and then the stern coming to a "sudden stop". OPERATOR stated no one was injured in the accident and that he had hit the windshield with his arm but was not hurt. The party was able to swim the boat and guide it along the shoal as they could walk in the shallow water all the way to shore where they anchored it to the sandy beach.

I assisted numerous people onto my boat from the beach as they had built a small fire and climbed up the rock shore to get cell phone reception and find a flat area to rest before help arrived. I counted 16 person on board the vessel and noted 3 of the adults were unable to find a personal floatation device (PFD) to wear as they boarded my vessel. OPERATOR confirmed he was short PFD's but that the children had been wearing them all along including at the time of the accident. I conducted a vessel inspection and found all other safety equipment to be in order. The vessel was taking on water slowly and was grounded on sand. OPERATOR stated he observed the prop was missing blades, the rudder was heavily damaged, the prop shaft seemed to be leaking water around it, and there was significant fiberglass damage on the bottom of the vessel and near the prop/rudder.

I provided courtesy transport of the party back to their houseboat camp in Last Chance Canyon and relayed salvage info for the vessel if OPERATOR was unable to tow it back in the morning with another ski boat. I issued OPERATOR a citation for not enough PFD's onboard at the time of the accident. I completed this report and with rescue time, reporting, and paperwork the case required 12 hours.


BARDID: UT-2016-0089
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-08-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE POWELL
NearestCityorTown: PAGE
County: KANE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentCause3: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
Initial call:
On August 2, 2016, Rangers were called by Park Service Dispatch regarding a 25 year old female with a spinal cord injury sustained on Lake Powell in Warm Creek Bay near the Castle Rock Cut. The vessel transporting the female was in route to the main ramp of Wahweap Marina.

Action Taken:
All responding NPS units arrived on scene at 1350 MST and contacted vessel docked at the Wahweap Main Launch Ramp. The injured female was transported by ambulance to Page Emergency Room, with a possible spinal cord injury.

Investigation:
I spoke with the operator of the vessel and asked if he would provide me a witness statement on the event. OPERATOR stated: "We were boating toward the Cut pulling two people on a tube. Large swells were in our path and I opted to hit them head on and I could not stop in time. The injured (VICTIM) was sitting toward the front of the boat and was thrown in the air, coming down hard on her back". A statement given by a passenger onboard the vessel, confirmed OPERATOR' statement.  Witness stated that "when we hit a large wake from another boat...victim flew off the seat and landed hard on the seat. She seemed to tweak her back and land on her tail bone".

Damages:
No damages to vessel were reported, nor were any damages visible.

Conclusion:
When confronted with a large wake generated by an opposing vessel, OPERATOR inadequately maneuvered his vessel to prevent a hard wake impact, which caused VICTIM, who did not adequately brace herself for impact, to sustain an injury to her back.


BARDID: UT-2016-0090
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-07-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE POWELL
NearestCityorTown: PAGE, AZ
County: KANE
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Weather
AccidentCause3: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On 7/18/2016 at approx. 1500 I received a report of a vessel capsized near buoy 19. Upon arrival in the area I located the houseboat "Frugal Frigate" which was towing the ski boat on its way up lake in the increasing storms. I observed about 200 yards from the shore was a white overturned ski boat and 2 adult males swimming around the boat attempting to tie it off to a small dingy. I retrieved the men and took them to camp for their safety, and then returned to the capsized vessel towing it to a nearby shore just north of Labrynth Canyon securing it to the sandy beach.

The vessel was found to be a Malibu Response and was completely submerged to the keel while capsized. I spoke to the Malibu Vessel's owner who told me the vessel was tied off at the bow eye and secured to the houseboat from the stern cleats with an estimated 50 foot rope. I spoke to the houseboat operator (Operator1) who told me he could tell the waves were building and as they rounded the turn at Buoy 19. Operator1 stated that the passengers started yelling at him as they entered the larger bay near buoy 20 because they noticed waves were crashing over the small Malibu's bow. He estimated his speeds at 8 knots and stated he was trying to make wide turns to avoid taking waves over the smaller boat. As Operator1 attempted to turn into the weather the smaller craft took a large wave over its bow and swamped, eventually turning over and capsizing.

I spoke to subject about calling for Executive Services or Antelope Point Marina to arrange a professional salvage as required by park regulations. He advised me "Legacy" had already offered his services, but I stated that the subject2 was not a legitimate commercial use authorized vendor for salvage. I learned the following day subject had worked with subject2 and others to salvage the boat on their own with unknown status of fuel, or oil spilled.


BARDID: UT-2016-0091
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-06-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:50:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE POWELL
NearestCityorTown: HALLS CROSSING
County: SAN JUAN
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On June 13th, 2016 at approximately 1550 hrs while on duty within Glen Canyon National Recreation Area within the district of Utah, Rangers were dispatched to a capsized vessel at buoy 95. At approximately 1605 hrs. we arrived on scene and found four people in the water with personal flotation devices (PFD'S) and one 20 foot tige Motorboat capsized in the water.

An unknown wake board boat that was passing by picked up the four people in the water, and we went over to the boat to transfer the 4 people to our patrol boat. Ranger asked if anyone needed medical attention, and if there was anyone else in the water that still needed to be rescued. A man said that it was just the four of them in the water, and no one needed medical attention. Ranger asked whose boat was capsized in the water and SUBJECT said that it was his.

SUBJECT explained to me that no one was in the boat when it capsized, he stated that they were towing it behind a house boat that was with their party and that the four of them had jumped in the water to try and right the boat and to prevent it from sinking. The boat had taken on water from waves going over the boat due to the increased winds and rain. The boat eventually took on enough water to become unbalanced and capsized.

One of the people in SUBJECT's party had managed to save the vessels registration. I ran his bow numbers through dispatch and they came back registered and insured.

We then proceeded  to transport the four people back to their house boat approximately 200 feet away from the capsized boat. We docked our vessel to the port side of the house boat and assisted in transferring the four people onto the house boat.

At this point Executive Services arrived on scene to tow the capsized boat back to the Bullfrog Marina. Ranger Lewis informed SUBJECT that we would be doing a boat accident report on his capsized boat.

We were clear of contact at approximately 1645 hrs.


BARDID: UT-2016-0092
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-07-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE POWELL
NearestCityorTown: BULLFROG
County: KANE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
SUMMARY: On July 8, 2016, I, U.S. Park Ranger was dispatched to a boat accident at Bullfrog Covered Slips. When I arrived on scene I met with the operator of a houseboat ("Desert Magic"), identified. OPERATOR2 told me that as he attempted to dock "Desert Magic," on "G" dock, he lost control and hit a docked blue and white motorboat. The impact caused a penetration hole into "Desert Magic's" cabin, and caused the gunwale to bow.

INVESTIGATION:
I met with the owner of v1, identified as V1 owner. V1 OWNER told me he was not on his boat as the time of collision. V1 OWNER was unable to find any damage to his boat, however since the boat collided with the dock, I recommended he pull it out of the water to look for further damage. V1 OWNER agreed to pull his boat so I told him I would re-contact him at Bullfrog Main Launch Ramp,

I met with OPERATOR2 and he provided me with a witness statement. OPERATOR2 told me he was attempting to dock the houseboat, ran out of room to maneuver the houseboat, then was blown into the dock and V1 OWNER's boat by a gust of wind. OPERATOR2 showed me a penetration hole to the port side of his cabin, that was caused by the collision. I took a picture of the damage to "Desert Magic" and thanked OPERATOR2 for his cooperation.

I then met with V1 OWNER at the top of Bullfrog Main Launch Ramp. V1 OWNER had removed the boat's swim platform before I arrived, however I did not notice any major damage to the swim platform. I inspected his boat and found the rear rub rail had minor scratches and dents in it. I also noticed the starboard gunwale was bent to the outside of the boat, and away from the interior seat cushion. I rook pictures of the damage.

FINDING:
I find OPERATOR2 at 100% of fault for this collision. I did not issue any citations for this collision.

WITNESS STATEMENT: Operator2
We're trying to leave marina when the wind pushed me into the docks and 1 boat. Got a puncture to my boat. I had tons of clearance, then immediately I had no clearance. Couldn't do anything because of the wind. Not an experienced houseboater, but I was doing fine until the wind came up.


BARDID: UT-2016-0093
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-06-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE POWELL
NearestCityorTown: BULLFROG
County: KANE
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
NARRATIVE:
On 6222016, I was apprised of persons who injured themselves in the BF Clinic due to a boat accident. 

Person injured identified herself, who sustained a laceration on her right hand near the index finger when their two boats came in contact with each other.

Subject1 witnessed this accident and filled out boat accident paperwork in case he decided to make a claim with his boat insurance. Subject1 provided a witness statement and most information but did not have his boat insurance information readily  available. I asked him to send it to me and he stated he would.

On June 30th, I requested boat information which he supplied me his boat policy and vague boat description. I requested he submit his bow numbers to me on August 12th, which he has not responded. I have started the boat accident form but cannot complete it without all the vessel information. I will submit it later if he sends the information for the vessels involved.


WITNESS STATEMENT: 
While docking ski boat to houseboat right hand got caught between ski rack of the boat and the railing of the houseboat. The right index finger was cut by the ski rack edge - more likely a tear - "very deep gash" requiring stitches.


BARDID: UT-2016-0094
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-07-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE POWELL
NearestCityorTown: BIG WATER
County: KANE
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Restricted vision
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 18, 2016 at approximately 1142 hours Ranger and I responded to a report of a sinking vessel at the Wahweap main launch ramp. At approximately 1144 hours I arrived on scene and located houseboat "Why Knot", a 75' aluminum full hull Bravada houseboat, on the Eastern courtesy dock of the Wahweap main launch ramp. The vessel appeared to be taking on water.

OPERATOR stated the following:
At approximately 1030 hours he was driving houseboat "Why Knot" from Gunsight Bay, where they had been camped, en-route to Wahweap Marina slip when they turned into Warm Creek Bay on the Northern end from the main channel. He was following several other boats, at a safe distance. Upon entering the mouth of Warm Creek Bay he had difficulty seeing due to sun glare on the water. The vessel struck a submerged rock shoal with the front middle of the hull. He was able to avoid overrunning the shoal with the rear of the vessel. The vessel began taking on water. He was able to continue driving the vessel to the Wahweap Main launch ramp. Five people were on the vessel at the time of the accident. No one on the vessel had consumed alcohol. He is one of the time share owners of the vessel. 

Property Damage:
While speaking with OPERATOR Lake Powell Marina staff were on scene actively pumping water out of the hull of the vessel and attempting to load the vessel onto a trailer. The stern of the vessel continued to take on water. The entire aft deck of the vessel was submerged with water entering the cabin of the vessel.
At approximately 1220 hours Lake Powell Marina staff were successful in placing the houseboat on a trailer and removing it from the water. Ranger photographed the vessel. A photo log is included with this report.

Observed damage to the vessel consisted of an approximately 24" x 6" gash to the underside aft the center of the keel that pierced the hull, an approximately 18" x 2" gash to the underside aft center of the keel that pierced the hull, an approximate 24" x 6" diagonal scratch to the underside aft starboard center of the hull, and an approximately 36" x 6" scratch to the underside center starboard side of the hull. The vessel was also inundated with water in the aft 1/4 of the vessel including the engine compartment, cooler compartment, aft kitchen area, and the aft swim deck area. The hull was filled with approximately 3000-5000 gallons of water. Other damage to the submerged area likely resulted as a result of water damage and or inundation.

Conclusion:
As a result of my investigation I have determined the primary cause of the accident as follows in order of occurrence and importance:
  1) Operator inattention: the rock shoal at the mouth of Warm Creek Bay is a well-known hazard marked on navigation charts and lake maps. The shoal is also clearly marked with a hazard buoy in the vicinity of the shoal.
  2) Restricted vision: the operator of the vessel (OPERATOR) was unable to see hazards in the water due to environmental conditions, sun glare.

END OF REPORT.


BARDID: UT-2016-0095
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-07-31 00:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE POWELL
NearestCityorTown: DANGLING ROPE
County: KANE
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Weather
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 31, 2006, a non-injury vessel accident was reported at the Antelope Point Marina. Lake Powell Houseboat Rentals reported that a returned vessel had sustained damages which were not initially reported by the vessel  operator/renter. Rental vessel 463 sustained damage to its starboard side prop, port side upper balcony, as well as rear starboard ladder knocked off its mount.

In a telephonic interview with Subject on July 31, 2016, Subject stated, while attempting to anchor and tie off to the rocks in Music Temple Cove, wind increased and blew the rear port side of the vessel into a rock wall, thus causing damage to the upper balcony. The wind then caused the vessel to pivot into a rock outcropping on its starboard rear, thus breaking the weld that connected the ladder to the ladder mount and chipped a piece off of the starboard side prop. Subject further stated that upon returning the vessel to Lake Powell Boat Rentals, due to his frustrations at the time, he left Antelope Point Marina without reporting the damage, however prior to the telephonic interview, he had been in contact with Boat Rentals personnel. This was confirmed by speaking with Rental Associate at Lake Powell Rentals.

I have determined that the cause of the accident was operator inattention during changing wind conditions while attempting to anchor the vessel in Music Temple Cove on Lake Powell. Subject was unable to give the exact date of the accident, therefore the date and time of the accident is undetermined, the vessel accident occurred sometime between July 24 and July 30 during daylight hours.


BARDID: UT-2016-0096
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-08-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE POWELL
NearestCityorTown: BULLFROG
County: KANE
WaterConditions: Very rough
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
On August 11, 2016 at approximately 1330 hours I reported to the scene of a sinking boat at the back of Hall's Creek Bay, on Lake Powell within Glen Canyon NRA. Upon arriving on scene I witnessed a beached/anchored 57 foot houseboat named Swift Escape, that was taking on water from the stern end, The entire stern/swim deck of the boat was submerged in water which was also flooding into the interior cabins of the vessel. Upon approaching the sinking houseboat I contacted the boat operator.

According to OPERATOR, on August 10, 2016 at approximately 1600 hours a large storm came through Hall's Creek Bay in the area of where the houseboat was anchored. The vessel Swift Escape was currently occupied by OPERATOR along with his family and friends when the heavy winds and large waves began to move the houseboat from its anchored position near shore. At the start of the storm the houseboat was secured to shore by five anchors, two to the west, two to the east, and one centered. As the winds began to increase and waves grew to an excess of four feet, two of the anchors broke free from shore, causing the houseboat to move east. Large waves began to swamp the stern of the boat and flood the engine compartment. The storm lasted two hours and once it ended at approximately 1800 hours, the houseboat had moved twenty feet to the east with the stern submerged by water that began to flood the interior of the houseboat.

The storm had caused significant damage to the outer and interior sections of the houseboat. Damage witnessed and documented at the time of my investigation are as follows. Outer damage: Destroyed railing of the starboard side, submerged swim deck, flooded AC unit located on stern. Interior damage: Flooding caused significant damage/destruction to the engine compartments, soaked carpets, water damage to bedrooms/mattresses and storage compartments. Due to the excessive flooding of the interior. It is also probable that electrical units within the houseboat were also damaged.

Statement: operator
We were playing cards on the front when the winds picked up and we decided to stop playing. We had 5 anchors, 2 west, 2 east, and one centered. As the wind increased the center anchor broke out of the rock. This caused the houseboat to start pushing east. The wind was coming directly from the west, perpendicular to the boat. We then unhooked the two ski boats from the houseboat and at that time another anchor stake broke/bent out of the rock. This caused the boat to move even further to the east. At that point the waves were so big they were coming over the back swim platform and into the engine bays at a rate that bailing out the water was useless. The storm lasted for 2 hours and by the time it had calmed the back of the boat was 24" under water and had moved 20 ft. onto shore.


BARDID: UT-2016-0098
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-08-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 07:55:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE POWELL
NearestCityorTown: BIG WATER
County: KANE
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Sinking
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel #2 (a houseboat) was towing vessel #1 (a ski boat) in the vicinity of buoy 56 on Lake Powell when adverse water conditions were encountered. Vessel #1 took waves over its bow, swamped, and quickly sunk beneath the water surface. 

Its towline was subsequently detached from vessel #2. Vessel #1 remained suspended in the water column at about 20 feet by a combination of its inherent buoyancy and that afforded by a large inner tube (used to tow passengers for recreation), which was tied to vessel #1 with a ski rope, approximately 20 feet in length. The inner tube was the only item visible above the water. 

Operator2 motored vessel #2 to Dangling Rope Marina where he reported the accident. I transported Operator2 to the area of buoy 56 and located vessel #1. The vessel, with tube still attached, had drifted toward the east northeast until contacting a canyon wall near buoy 56, and lay in approximately 15 feet of water. Operator2 attached the vessel to a large rock on the shore with a line and it was subsequently salvaged and removed from the lake. We recovered various flotsam from the sinking and transported it to vessel #2.

VOLUNTARY STATEMENT: Operator2
Was towing 1991 ski Centurion open bow boat behind house boat. Boat took a wave over the bow and then 2 other waves flooding the boat. Boat sank at buoy 56.


BARDID: UT-2016-0099
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-08-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE POWELL
NearestCityorTown: BIG WATER
County: KANE
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Storm
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Person departed vessel
AccidentEvent3: Sinking
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
At approximately 1600 hours (MST), OPERATOR reports he was piloting vessel #1 as he and his passengers were returning to Face Canyon on Lake Powell (located at approximately buoy 24A) from Dangling Rope Marina (located at buoy 42). 

The weather had worsened during the voyage down lake, with west and southwest winds driving waves up to 2' and more in height. As the vessel rounded Gooseneck Point and lined up to enter Face Canyon, the waves had built to an extent that one broke over the open bow. A second and third wave followed, also breaking over the bow. The vessel at this point had taken on considerable water and it's freeboard had become severely limited. When a fourth wave broke over the bow, the vessel's gunnels sank to the level of the water and Operator ordered the vessel abandoned. The vessel sank just below the water. 

At this point all 10 passengers, including OPERATOR, had taken to the water. OPERATOR had retrieved several sky flares from the vessel before it sank and fired several of these into the air. A party aboard a houseboat beached at the mouth of Face Canyon saw the flares, launched their ski boat, retrieved all 10 passengers from the water, and transported them to the houseboat occupied by OPERATOR, et al, located toward the back of Face Canyon.

At approximately 1745 hours I rendezvoused with another NPS vessel at the mouth of Face Canyon and directed them to locate vessel #1, move it to the nearest beech, and secure it there for later salvage. This completed at approximately 1830 hours. At approximately 1800 hours (MST), I arrived at OPERATOR'S houseboat as OPERATOR and his passengers were disembarking from the Good Samaritan's vessel. I interviewed Operator and cleared the scene at approximately 1830 hours.


BARDID: UT-2016-0100
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-07-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:23:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE POWELL
NearestCityorTown: BULLFROG
County: SAN JUAN
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (unknown origin)
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 1, 2016, at approximately 1830 hours, I received a call from Dispatch about a sinking vessel with a smoking engine located in the main channel up lake from Bullfrog Marina. Myself and Ranger left Hall's Crossing in NPS Vessel 256 and had the assistance of Ranger, who was operating NPS Vessel 2511. We found the sinking vessel in Bullfrog Bay north of the marina.

The name of the damaged boat was "No Worries". There were three people on board. The operator of the boat told me that he just launched "No Worries" and was looking for a camping spot on the beach when the boat just stopped running. Immediately following this malfunction, the engine started smoking and the engine compartment started to take water in. OPERATOR deployed the fire extinguisher and then called for assistance.

I instructed OPERATOR, his wife, and his son to board vessel 256 so that I could ensure they were safe. OPERATOR advised that the appearance of smoke ceased after deploying the fire extinguisher. Ranger beached vessel 2511 and boarded "No Worries" so that he could anchor it on the nearest beach. an NPS maintenance worker in Bullfrog, and Ranger also responded to the scene in the NPS Fire boat to assist with any potential fire activity. After Ranger beached "No Worries" and inspected the damage to the boat, I told the OPERATOR family that this beach looked suitable for the night. OPERATOR agreed and I let them take their camping gear off of "No Worries" and onto the beach. Aramark was notified of this incident and assisted OPERATOR the next morning.

Structure Fire Report, Witness Statements, and Photo Log Attached.


BARDID: UT-2016-0101
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-07-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:16:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE POWELL
NearestCityorTown: BULLFROG
County: SAN JUAN
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
At 1916 hours Ranger and I went to slip at Hall's Crossing Marina to investigate a report of a boat accident. I contact the houseboat "Desert Horizon", which was the houseboat docked at slip. The operator of "Desert Horizon" gave me the details of how the collision occurred.

Operator1 stated that he was operating "Desert Horizon" at approximately 1816 hours and the strong winds made docking very difficult. His wife, Operator1, was waiting on the slip between slips so that she could help tie the boat to the dock. When he attempted to enter the slip, the conditions forced the bow of "Desert Horizon" into the starboard side stern corner of the houseboat "Canyon Cruiser" in slip.

I observed a large dented section of the starboard side stern of "Canyon Cruiser" when I walked out onto the slip between these two houseboats. "Canyon Cruiser" was unoccupied and docked. In his voluntary statement, Operator1 claims that engine failure also contributed to the collision. After the collision, Operator1 navigated Desert Horizon into slip and proceeded to call dispatch to report the incident. A photo log is attached to this report.


BARDID: UT-2016-0102
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-07-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:53:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE POWELL
NearestCityorTown: BULLFROG
County: SAN JUAN
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Hull failure
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 4th, 2016 at approximately 1253 hours, I was on a routine boat patrol and a vessel outside of Hall's Crossing Marina contacted me for assistance. After approaching, the passengers informed me that a houseboat near the mouth of Hall's Creek Bay was disabled and taking on water. 

I found the houseboat "Hakuna Matata" near buoy 93, where it was sitting idle in the water. The starboard side pontoon of "Hakuna Matata" was damaged and a few feet underwater. 

The operator informed me that he and the 11 passengers on the houseboat noticed the damage around buoy 77 and cruised all the way to buoy 93 in an attempt to get "Hakuna Matata" back to Bullfrog. At this time Operator told me that the houseboat was not taking on any water. 

Operator also said that the starboard side pontoon  had recently received maintenance. He claimed that they did not collide with anything to inflict damage to the starboard side pontoon. I informed Operator that we needed to get the houseboat to a safe location immediately so that he and the passengers would not be on board in the event of a capsized vessel. 


BARDID: UT-2016-0103
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-08-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE POWELL
NearestCityorTown: HALLS CROSSING
County: SAN JUAN
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Weather
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On August 16th, 2016 I received a report of a boat accident at Hall's Crossing Marina on "G" dock.

I arrived on scene and identified the owner of the houseboat. Subject1 informed me that he arrived at his houseboat today and his neighbor had told him that on August 13th, 2016 the houseboat Legasea had been trying to dock into their slip and hit the end of the dock across from G Dock, which was E Dock, and damaged the end of the dock. Then trying to dock again, Legasea realigned into their slip and hit Subject1's houseboat because they were misaligned and going too fast.

The damage to Subject1's houseboat was primarily on the back right corner of his houseboat. There was damage to the fiberglass and to the metal siding of the rear right corner of the houseboat.

As of August 22nd, 2016 I have not been able to get a hold of the owner of houseboat Legasea to get their side of the story, because they are still out on the lake.

VOLUNTARY STATEMENT: 
On Aug. 13th, 2016, I was sitting on the back of my houseboat when Legasea came around the corner going faster then they should have been. The weather was calm, no wind. I then started filming them - they hit the end of the dock end (see video) of "E", messed up their approach to their slip, then realigned and started for the slip (not straight) going faster than needed for weather being calm. Hit boat in slip, then other side of dock and in.

VOLUNTARY STATEMENT: Subject1
When arriving at my houseboat on 8/13/16, noticed my right back corner of houseboat damaged. Talked with neighbor to left of me, she had video of Legacy Houseboat hitting mine. Cracked fiberglass and damage to metal siding.

Weather is marked as a cause since it was raining.


BARDID: UT-2016-0105
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-08-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:38:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE POWELL
NearestCityorTown: BULLFROG
County: SAN JUAN
WaterConditions: Very rough
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Storm
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Sinking
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
On August 25, 2016, at 1438 hours, I received a call from dispatch regarding a distressed vessel that was sinking due to taking on too much water. I took NPS vessel 2511 and found the vessel at 1500 hours near the wakeless buoy in front of Hall's Crossing Marina. Ranger and I looked for associated vessels, and I found an associated houseboat near Bullfrog buoy 2 that was beached on an island. The houseboat was identified as "Chillin in Paradise". I talked to the operator. OPERATOR2 was onboard "Chillin in Paradise" with his wife and one other couple.

At this time wind speeds were over 50mph and there were 5-6 foot swells in Bullfrog Bay. OPERATOR2 explained to me that the submerged vessel I found was his. OPERATOR2 said they were towing V1 behind the houseboat and the hazardous conditions made the towed boat take on too much water. As V1 was going under water, it caused the towing line to snap and the boat went under water.

Aramark came to extract the V1 from the water and they took the boat to Bullfrog. Voluntary statements and other pictures are attached to this report as an external document.

VOLUNTARY STATEMENT: Operator2
Ski boat was being towed behind a houseboat. A big wind storm came up and the ski boat started to take on water. We couldn't save the ski boat in time. It took on too much water, the line towing the boat snapped and the boat went under. We saw the engine cover float away and the back seat. We still facing threatening winds caught cover and called it in.

VOLUNTARY STATEMENT: subject2: Ski boat took on water over the bow from high winds. Filled with water, towing rope broke, boat then floated away and submerged.


BARDID: UT-2016-0107
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-09-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE POWELL
NearestCityorTown: HALLS CROSSING
County: SAN JUAN
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
On September 13th, 2016 at approximately 2130 hours I received a report over Marine 16 that a boat had capsized up by Hansen Creek Canyon and that the owners of the boat were at Halls Crossing Marina.

The owner of the vessel informed me that he was boating with his wife up by Hansen Creek and that they were unable to trim up their trolling motor, which caused them to capsize when the wind picked up and waves increased in size.

On September 14th, 2016 I went up to Hansen Creek to verify that the boat was up there and found the boat at the entrance to Hansen Creek, capsized but still floating on the surface of the water. I called Executive Services to tow the boat out and prevent it from completely sinking.


VOLUNTARY STATEMENT: Operator
Power trim quit working in heavy waves, which was unable to keep the bow up and it took on water, and the nose went down, and the boat flipped. We lost our DOG and all possessions. 6 fishing poles, all phones, purse, boat equipment, electric motor. Hopefully the boat can be recovered and we can salvage anything from this disaster. The boat took on water in the front to back and flipped on the side. When standing on the boat to wave help down I fell on my right shoulder and hurt it. The people that came to help treated us for hypothermia as one on broad was an EMT, and recognized the signs. We floated on top of the boat for at least 30 to 40 minutes.


BARDID: UT-2016-0108
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-09-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE POWELL
NearestCityorTown: BULLFROG
County: KANE
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On September 18th, 2016 at approximately 1530 hours while acting as a Law Enforcement Ranger at Glen Canyon National Recreation Area in the District of Utah, I received a call over Marine Band 16 that there was a vessel sinking in Bullfrog Bay just past the Bullfrog Launch Ramp. I arrived on scene at approximately 1540 hours and observed that Officer was already on scene and had the boat operator on his vessel, with a tow line already in the water trying to tow the submerged vessel to a shallower portion of the marina.

I interviewed the boat operator who was the owner.  Subject informed me that he had not secured the bolts that hold the outboard jet to the inboard motor, which caused the vessel to leak. Officer called out Executive Services to retrieve the vessel from the lake bottom.

As Executive Services was towing the vessel to the surface SUBJECT became agitated because the bow of his boat hit the barge that Executive Services was using to tow his boat up, and refused to pay. Officer impounded SUBJECTS boat because of his refusal to pay. SUBJECT informed us that he would be back in a week to pay Executive Services and get his vessel.


BARDID: UT-2016-0109
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-09-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:50:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE POWELL
NearestCityorTown: BULLFROG
County: KANE
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
On September 22, 2016 at approximately 1130 hours, reporting party called to report his boat was hit sometime between 1700 hours on 9/19/16 and 1000 hours on 9/21/16. 

I, U.S. Park Ranger , was dispatched to a vessel collision at Executive Services Dock on September 22, 2016 at approximately 1220 hours. I spoke with Executive Services staff and asked if the party (OWNER1) had contacted them. Executive Services staff said they had and handed me a witness statement that OWNER1 completed while reporting the incident. (See attached reports) After they handed me the witness statement, they informed me two people were watching the security camera from the time frame of the collisions.

We watched the video footage that shows two separate vessels striking OWNER1's boat on September 20, 2016. OWNER1's vessel (Red, Malibu, Wake Setter) was reported by OWNER1 to be docked in Covered Slips Marina, Slip and unattended at the aforementioned time frame. I met with OWNER1's wife, on 09/22/2016 at approximately 1600 hours to take photos of the damage (see photo log).

The first of the two vessels, an Aramark vessel (Navy blue, 2016 Landau), Vessel #2, upon reviewing the footage from the security cameras, while piloting slowly appears to have hit the rear of Vessel #1, as judged by the cessation of movement upon contact, at approximately 1150 hours. The specific damage caused by the contact is unknown because the security footage is from a distant view.

I spoke with the operator of the pontoon boat at that time on September 22, 2016 at approximately 1657 hours, and asked for her to fill out a witness statement. OPERATOR2 was unaware that she had potentially caused damage to OWNER1's boat (see OPERATOR2's witness statement).

The second of the two vessels' (Vessel #3) appeared to have struck Vessel #1 at 1245 hours. Upon reviewing the footage from the security cameras, it appears as though Vessel #2, while piloting very slowly hit the rear of Vessel #1, as judged by the cessation of movement upon contact. The specific damage caused by the contact is unknown, because the security footage is from a distant view. There are no known suspects,

Upon viewing where Vessel #1 was docked, it extends past the docks on either side, leaving the rear of the vessel exposed past the protection of the end of the docks.

VOLUNTARY STATEMENT: Operator2
On Tuesday, 9-20-2016, I was piloting the Halls Water Taxi out of the Executive Services Marina. Upon reversing out of the slip and going into forward motion, the wind blew me towards the docks. Captain noticed I was having difficulties. He jumped aboard and took the helm. A guest ran over to assist us in keeping the taxi away from the boat moored in the slip. I asked if we had hit the (Red) boat, the guest said "No I got you", subject Piloted us out of the slips and exited the taxi to the end of the docks. I piloted to Halls Docks without incident.3

VOLUNTARY STATEMENT: OWNER1
Someone hit my boat between 5:00 PM on Monday the 19th, and Wednesday the 21st at 10:00 AM, damaging the rear left swim deck, boat cover, and boat left side.


BARDID: UT-2016-0110
State: UT
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2016-08-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE POWELL
NearestCityorTown: WAHWEAP
County: KANE
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
AccidentCause3: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
INITIAL REPORT
On August 3, 2016 at approximately 1637 I (Ranger), received a report from park dispatch of a vessel in distress in the vicinity of Last Chance Bay. The report was for a private vessel that had capsized and begun to sink in the storm. I arrived on scene at approximately 17:28 hours to find a large debris field and that the vessel had already sunk. I subsequently retrieved the GPS coordinate of the center of the debris field (37 degrees 05.019 North, 111 degrees 14.502 West). The occupants of the vessel had been picked out of the water by nearby boats and I directed the bystanders to begin collecting the debris before they sank.

INVESTIGATION
I conducted a field interview with the operator/owner of the vessel. OPERATOR1 stated that they had been floating and relaxing in one of the coves in Last Chance Bay when he began to drifting towards the rocks. OPERATOR1 attempted to start the engine but was unable to start it and had a friend, on a jet ski, pull him away from the rocks, and then disconnected from the jet ski that was towing them. At approximately 1600 hours a sudden micro burst came down and the waves from the storm began to come over the bow. Despite efforts using the vessels bilge pump, the water continued to flow over the bow and fill the boat. OPERATOR1 instructed everyone on board to don a PFD before the vessel began to capsize and sink. The boat sank stern first and was held up for a few minutes by an air pocket in the bow before sinking. A passing boat picked the occupants of the vessel out of the water and brought them to a nearby house boat until I arrived.

DISPOSITION
I have determined through my field interview that the cause of the accident was a combination of the vessel being unable to start its engine to maneuver out of the storm, and the sudden onset of the storm resulting in the vessel capsizing and sinking.

Time Spent on report: 2 hours on scene and 1 hour spent on report.

VOLUNTARY STATEMENT: OPERATOR1
Just floating & relaxing - started getting too close to rocks - engine wouldn't start. Jet ski pulled us away from rocks - we disconnected the jet ski. The wind and waves increased, was coming over the bow to fast, could not get the water out of boat fast enough. 7 people on boat/7 people on the water. 2 people on the jet ski. 7 all people in the water. Passing boat got us all out of the water, brought us to their house boat until the ranger came.


BARDID: UT-2016-0111
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-08-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE POWELL
NearestCityorTown: DANGLING ROPE MARINA
County: KANE
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent3: Sinking
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause3: Hazardous waters
MachineryFailure: Engine
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
INITIAL REPORT
On August 18, 2016 at approximately 1545 hours I (Ranger) was dispatched to a distress call from a house boat in the vicinity of Escalante Arm of Lake Powell. The initial report was for a house boat that had lost propulsion and was getting close to hitting the canyon wall. Upon arriving on scene at 1739 hours, I assisted the house boat in anchoring on the beach.

INVESTIGATION
I conducted a field interview with the operator of the "Titan" at the time of the accident. OPERATOR1 stated that at around 1500 hours he was backing the "Titan" from its location on the beach when the port engine stopped working. OPERATOR1 stated that the steering became difficult at which point the starboard engine went into neutral automatically. OPERATOR1 tried to restart the starboard engine but could not resolve the issue. Next the wind began to pick up and blew the house boat into the rock wall where the starboard side contacted the wall scratching the stern and ripping off the water slide. They used their ski boat and fishing boat to pull the house boat to a nearby beach.

While pulling the "Titan" onto the beach. OPERATOR2 was pulling from a line affixed to the stern of the "Titan" with his vessel. OPERATOR2 was "attempting to straighten out the house boat" and continued to stay on the throttle despite the bow of his vessel rising and more water coming over the stern of his boat. OPERATOR2 continued to increase the throttle until the bow was nearly vertical in the air, at which point the weight of the motor, and the vertical position of the boat rapidly sunk in about 15 feet of water. So just the bow of the boat was sticking up above the water.

At approximately 1700 hours OPERATOR3 was operating the vessel when he struck the side of the "Titan" while it was beached. OPERATOR3 stated that due to the storm the waves pushed the PWC towards the PWC rack on the back of the "Titan" too fast, at which point he tried to steer away from the back of the "Titan". As OPERATOR3 steered away from the "Titan", he was pushed by a wave so that the PWC skid impacted the port side of the PWC's hull.

DISPOSITION
I have determined through my field interview and investigation that the cause of the accident was a combination of vessel mechanical failures, weather conditions, and operator inexperience.


BARDID: UT-2016-0112
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-06-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: PANGUTICH LAKE
NearestCityorTown: PANGUITCH
County: Garfield
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Sinking
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
AccidentCause2: Weather
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
On 14 june 2016, a vessel took on water and sunk in panguitch lake.  

I was notified by garfield county deputy of a boat that swamped and sunk in panguitch lake and wanted to know what to do.  I asked if he got information of all those involved and of the vessel.  Deputy stated that he had 2 witness statements from the individuals on the vessel.  He stated that photographs were taken of the vessel underwater and of some of the property that was in the boat.

According to the witness statement and telephone interviews, it was determined that the vessel was going backwards from the dock.  The weather turned bad and the wind came up and made waves that come over the stern of the vessel , the bilge pump failed to keep up with the in-coming water causing the vessel to become swamped and sink.  

The vessel was secured by the panguitch lake fire department to the shore and was recovered the following day.  

 both the individuals made it to shore, however, one person was transported to garfield memorial hospital for possible hypothermia.  The victim Was released from the hospital later that day.  

The original case was from garfield county sheriff's office (#34558) was handed to me in late august.  Attempting to gather all the required information was difficult and it was not all retrieved.


BARDID: UT-2016-0113
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-08-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE POWELL
NearestCityorTown: PAGE
County: KANE
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
INITIAL CALL: On 08-25-2016, I was dispatched to a medical call at Antelope Point.
ON SCENE: I  arrived on scene and blocked off one of the docks to the main ramp. The boat the medical was on was heading to the main ramp. During this time Ranger and the Page Ambulance showed up.

INVESTIGATION/INTERVIEW: A red ski boat approached the dock and laying in the back of the boat was the injured party, Victim. Victim complained of pain in his chest area and stated that he did not know what happened. Page ambulance transported Victim to the Page Hospital. 

I spoke with SUBJECT whom stated that he witnessed the incident occur. SUBJECT stated that Victim was going approximately 30mph on a wave runner and hit a wave. SUBJECT stated that Victim was thrown from the wave runner and did a "cart wheel" type motion off the wave runner. SUBJECT stated that he believed Victim hit the steering column area with his chest. I did notice a mark on Victim's head. SUBJECT filled out a witness statement. 

Upon speaking with other people in the boat I determined the accident occurred somewhere near Gun Sight Bay around 1100 hours. I was informed that subject2 was the registered owner of the PWC, and that he and the rest of the group, along with the PWC was still in Gun Sight Bay. 

I was unable to determine the weather conditions in Gun Sight Bay when the accident occurred.

I made multiple attempts to contact subject2, I was able to contact him and he stated that the registration was on the boat at Antelope Point Marina and that the Marina had it. I contacted the marina and they stated they do not keep registration numbers in their file. I went down to Dock 4 slip B42 and gained permission via phone call through dispatch to board the houseboat to get the registration numbers. Upon boarding the house boat I noticed the electrical cover to one of the outlets on the stern of the boat was broken off. The PWC Victim was believed to be on was registered. 

CONCLUSION:
Victim was transported via Page Ambulance to Page Hospital. I spent approximately 8 hours on this case.


BARDID: UT-2016-0116
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-11-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE POWELL
NearestCityorTown: BULLFROG
County: KANE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On November 11, 2016 at approximately 1230 hours, I was dispatched by Glen Canyon NRA dispatch to Executive Services at Bullfrog Cover Slips Marina for a boat accident. I arrived on scene and was informed by the Executive Services Office, the houseboat docked on HB5 on "G: dock was turning into the slip and lost power. The houseboat began drifting and collided with the vessel parked at the end on "B", ripping off the anchor attachment on the bow.

I contacted the houseboat on "G" dock at slip and located the operator. Operator2 stated the houseboat had only one engine working out of the two. He had come through the tire wall into the marina and was going to attempt a sharp turn to the starboard to face the lakeside of the dock. 

He was then going to put the vessel in reverse to help with the turn, but the engine died. Before he could get it working again, he drifted toward "B" dock and collided with the vessel docked at the end. Operator2 informed me the forward port side railing and fabric caught the anchor on the docked vessel and ripped it off the vessel. 

Operator2 was able to regain control of the houseboat, and dock it at slip on "G" dock. Operator2 informed me the only damage he observed on the houseboat was the ripped fabric around the bow railing and the bent aluminum tubing which the gate was attached. I conducted a vessel inspection and found the following discrepancies, no coast guard approved type 4 floatation device on board, no bell, or any registration and insurance paperwork on board.

I then located the vessel docked on "B" dock. The vessel was docked in slip and was unoccupied. I observed the anchor was hanging on the port side of the vessel as well as damage to the bow where the anchor was fastened. I documented the damage and received the owner's information from Executive Service.

On November 12, 2016 at approximately 0915 hours, I was informed by Executive Service the owners of the vessel were at their vessel, I contacted the owner. Owner1 informed me the only damage he could see was the damage on the bow as well as the fiberglass fractures on the swim platform. Owner1 stated the fracture marks were not there last time he docked his vessel. Also, there were smudge marks and markings from the dock where the swim platform hit the dock. I observed Owner1 had placed a white buoy in the past to prevent his swim platform from hitting the dock. It appeared the vessel was pushed back hard, causing the dock lines to stretch as well as the swim platform pushing the white buoy under it to hit the dock.


VOLUNTARY STATEMENT: occupant on v2
I was riding on the top deck while Operator2 was driving the houseboat from the buoy to the slip at Executive Services. While turning into out slip the houseboat swung wide hitting the slip and boat on the far side of where we were headed. The port side of our boat hit the awning of the slip and the bow of the boat parked in the slip. I understand one of our two engines was not working which limited maneuverability.

VOLUNTARY STATEMENT:. Operator2
I was piloting the next wave houseboat toward the houseboat rental slip. Moving at low, wake less speed. Shifting engine into reverse in order to turn toward the slip. As I shifted the engine stalled. The second engine was not running. As I attempted to restart the engine the boat drifted about 150 feet and collided with the bow and anchor of a boat that was parked in a slip.


BARDID: UT-2016-0117
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-09-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE POWELL
NearestCityorTown: WAHWEAP
County: KANE
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: People on gunwale, bow, or transom
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
INITIAL REPORT:
On September 18, 2016 at approx. 1055 MST Range, received a report from park dispatch of a medical trauma at the Wahweap Boat Rentals. Upon Arrival all involved Rangers rendered medical care to an adult Asian male had sustained severe lacerations to his left buttocks as well as a compound fracture to his left tibia. Both injuries were consistent with having been struck by a vessel propeller. VICTIM was airlifted via helicopter to Flagstaff, AZ.

INVESTIGATION: 
I conducted a field interview with the only English speaking individual who was present at the time of the accident. SUBJECT stated that there were four individuals on the vessel. SUBJECT stated that while approaching Castle Rock Cut no wake zone OPERATOR1 made a sharp turn while they were moving at on plain speed. VICTIM who was sitting on the bow of the vessel fell overboard and was subsequently struck by the vessel. They retrieved VICTIM from the water and proceeded back to Wahweap Boat Rentals. Operator stated, through translation, that he had no previous vessel operating experience.

DISPOSITION:
I have determined through VICTIM's injuries, field interviews, and observing the vessel first hand, that the cause of the accident was VICTIM riding in an unsafe manner on the bow of the vessel while the vessel was being operated by an inexperienced operator, OPERATOR1. VICTIM's injuries were consistent with the statement given by SUBJECT. All evidence suggests that VICTIM was struck by the propeller of the vessel.

Time spent on report: approx. 2 hours total on scene, approximately 1 hour spent on report.


BARDID: UT-2016-0118
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-05-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:40:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE POWELL
NearestCityorTown: PAGE
County: KANE
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On 5/30/2016 I was called to a houseboat in Gunsight Canyon for a male patient with a possible head injury sustained while tubing earlier in the day. Upon arrival I located the patient, Victim who was sitting comfortably on a couch in the houseboat. Victim was medically stable and after some time agreed to self-transport with his father to Page ED for stitches due to an apparent broken nose and laceration across the bridge of his nose.

I spoke to Victim, as well as his friend (a fellow passenger on the ski boat) and (the vessel operator). OPERATOR stated he was operating the vessel and going about 20mph turning when Victim fell off the inner tube and his knee struck his face resulting in the injury. Victim and friend also collaborated this account of the accident. There was no reported loss of consciousness and Victim was able to swim back to the boat on his own power. There was no reckless behavior apparent to me at the time of investigation and no alcohol or other contributing factors that led to the accident.

AZ reporting requirement: Total time spent on response  and reporting 3 hours.


BARDID: UT-2016-0119
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-08-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:39:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE POWELL
NearestCityorTown: PAGE
County: KANE
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
On 8/11/2016 I was advised of a damaged vessel that had arrived at Dangling Rope Marina around 16:39. The vessel and it's operator were safely at the marina and Operator stated he had suffered no injuries. He stated while entering Dangling Rope Canyon he did not notice the large shoal extending from the mouth of the canyon and ran into the shallow water striking his lower unit on the submerged rocks. 

I found no evidence of impairment or reckless behavior and noted that Operator did not follow the navigational aids entering the canyon from the mouth and Buoy 42, but instead he cut the corner to enter the canyon placing himself over underwater hazards. I noted significant damage to the lower unit and possibly the hull, but the vessel was floating without taking on any water. Operator arranged a tow to Wahweap and required no further assistance.

AZ required Reporting Info: Total time on incident/investigation reporting 2 hours.


BARDID: UT-2016-0120
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-09-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE POWELL
NearestCityorTown: BIG WATER
County: KANE
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentCause3: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel #1 was underway, heading down lake near buoy 39 when it encountered a large wake. The operator (OPERATOR1) believes it may have been a wake from one of the Lake Powell tour boats that run between Wahweap and Rainbow Bridge National Monument. OPERATOR1 misjudged the height of the wake and hit it at too great a speed. This caused the bow of the vessel to suddenly raise up at it crested the first wake wave. This, in turn, caused VICTIM, who was seated in the bow of the boat, to fly into the air and land hard on the seating in the bow. This happened again as the vessel hit a second wake wave before OPERATOR1 could slow and stop the vessel.

VICTIM immediately complained of severe back pain and a passenger on the vessel contacting NPS dispatch. I was dispatched to the scene. On arriving, I observed NPS Ranger assessing VICTIM. We immobilized with a C=collar, then placed her on a backboard. We then moved her to NPS vessel 244 and transported her about 100 yards to a nearby beach where a Classic Air medical helicopter had landed. VICTIM was handed over to Classical Air and flown to Flagstaff Medical Center for medical treatment.


BARDID: UT-2016-0121
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-09-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE POWELL
NearestCityorTown: BULLFROG
County: KANE
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On September 30, 2016 at approximately 1436 hours, Rangers were on vessel patrol on Lake Powell in Bullfrog Bay in fully marked patrol vessel 2511 when we were dispatched to attempt to locate a sinking vessel.

We made our way back to the Bullfrog Gas Dock where Ranger was approached by the individual who owned the sinking vessel. SUBJECT stated that he had gotten an Aramark Pilot from Executive Services who would take him out to the sunken vessel to assist him in recovering what he could of his possessions. Ranger relayed this message to me and we followed SUBJECT and Aramark Pilot out to the southwest shore of Bullfrog Bay across from Buoy BF3 where the vessel (then identified as a white, 1998, Bayliner, Capri) was tied to shore but clearly sunken.

I assisted SUBJECT in loading his salvageable possessions onto the Captain boat. Ranger took pictures of the scene (See log).

I later interviewed SUBJECT on October 12, 2016 at approximately 1520 hours, on October 12, 2016, to finalize the information needed for the boat accident report.

SUBJECT stated that on September 30, 2016 at approximately 1100 hours, he left the Bullfrog Gas dock and was towing his vessel behind their houseboat S19. While boating through Bullfrog Bay, the motors on their houseboat started having problems. SUBJECT contacted Executive Services to have them work on the motors. While Executive Services was working the engines, SUBJECT noticed that his vessel was taking on water, at which point he asked if Executive Services would take that boat to shore where it wouldn't sink too far and he anchored it to the location where we witnessed it later that day.

The vessel was recovered by Executive Services the next morning, October 1, 2016, at approximately 1000 hours and removed from the lake and taken home by SUBJECT.

No citations were issued.


BARDID: UT-2016-0122
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-09-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE POWELL
NearestCityorTown: PAGE
County: KANE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
INITIAL CALL:
On 09-06-2016, I was dispatched to the Wahweap Marina which is within the boundaries of Glen Canyon NRA for a report of a boat accident that occurred the previous day.

ON SCENE: 
I spoke with operator1 who stated that he was entering the no wake area of the Castle Rock Cut heading into Warm Creek. He stated that as he slowed down Operator2 came up behind him and ran into him full plane. OPERATOR1's statement is attached. Damage to OPERATOR1's boat: Approximately a 1 foot crack in the fiberglass that went through the exhaust. A gouge out of fiberglass and broken trim on the swim platform. There is a crack on the swim platform. See attached photos.

On 09-29-2016 I received an Email from OPERATOR2. In his email OPERATOR2 stated that he was heading into the wakeless area of Castle Rock Cut and before he was in the wakeless area OPERATOR1 cut in front of him and slowed down. OPERATOR2 stated that he tried to avoid  hitting OPERATOR1 but due to the distance that OPERATOR1 was in front of him he was unable to stop. OPERATOR2's statement is attached. OPERATOR1 reported that OPERATOR2 had minor damage to the bow of his boat including a bent eye hook. OPERATOR2 did not report any damage.

I spent approximately 5 hours on this report and compiled all photographs I was able to obtain and took into a photo log, which is attached.


BARDID: UT-2016-0125
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2016-10-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:23:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE POWELL
NearestCityorTown: PAGE
County: KANE
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
On 10/20/2016 at approximately 1400 hours, Glen Canyon Dispatch center notified me of a boat accident at Buoy 19. They had received a report that a vessel had struck a rock and was drifting. No injuries were reported at that time.

Ranger and I responded in park patrol vessel #244 to Buoy 19. At around Buoy 15 we located a red and white ski boat underway very slowly. We contacted the vessel and found it to be the reporting party. The vessel was a 22' Axis A with 8 persons on board. I identified the owner and operator of the vessel by his driver's license. OPERATOR stated that they were underway going down-lake travelling approximately 35mph near Buoy 19 when they struck a submerged rock. OPERATOR stated that 2 of the passengers were thrown around a bit but no one was seriously injured. OPERATOR stated they were going able to slowly move forward but not very fast. I asked if there were any injuries and Operator stated he hit his head on the windshield but that he did not want any medical attention from us at that time. I observed a small laceration to OPERATOR's head that was not bleeding at that time.

I asked OPERATOR where he was in relation to the green buoy 19 navigational aid and he state he was to the west of it near the shore. I told OPERATOR that he was in the improper location and he should have been on the other side of the green buoy as he was travelling down-lake. OPERATOR stated he thought he was on the proper side of the buoy at that time.

I found no water entering  the bilge of the vessel and OPERATOR refused tow services and wanted to make his way back to  Stateline Ramp. I advised him that it would be dark and his best option would be to beach the vessel and have us take everyone back with us. OPERATOR refused and stated that he wanted to stay with his vessel. I asked if he would like us to take his passengers back to Wahweap and he stated yes. We transferred 5 passengers to our vessel, had them wear their own life jackets and sat them in the passenger portion of our vessel. OPERATOR was instructed to wear his life jacket, turn on his navigation lights and call our park dispatch if he needed further assistance. We notified OPERATOR that there would be no guarantee we would be able to come back after sunset if we left them at that point. OPERATOR stated he understood. I advised OPERATOR to send pictures of the damage when he was able to pull the boat out of the water.

We transported the 5 passengers to Stateline Launch Ramp where they were dropped off.

OPERATOR send a few pictures of the damage a week later (attached)

It appears that the propeller and rudder were severely damaged as well as the fiberglass in the mount area around them.

Estimated Damage $2000.

Cause of accident: operator of the vessel was on the improper side of the marked channel - aids to navigation buoy system.


BARDID: UT-2017-0003
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-04-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:00:00
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
NameOfBodyOfWater: Yuba Reservoir
NearestCityorTown: Levan
County: Juab
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Overloading
AccidentCause2: Weather
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On Monday April 3, 2016 about 09:30 I received a call from Richfield dispatch.  Dispatch notified me that there was an overdue fishing party at Yuba.   OPERATOR and OCCUPANT were the two missing occupants.  The party launched on Sunday morning and when they didn't return home the wives called  911 to report them missing on Monday morning around 09:00.  Ranger1 and I were in Salt Lake City attending a training.  We contacted one of the Juab County deputies that was on scene to get more information.  He arrived on scene around 09:30.  A life flight helicopter was called to try to locate the missing vessel and occupants.  A member of the Levan ambulance crew also brought a boat to aid in the search.  The boat located the missing vessel near the narrows .  It was capsized and mostly under the water.  The life flight helicopter located a person laying on the shore near the submerged vessel.  They landed and found it to be OPERATOR, he was alive but in critical condition.  He was transported to Provo hospital by helicopter.    Search and rescue continued to search for OCCUPANT.  

Ranger1 and I drove to the Salt Lake DNR shop to get a boat because our patrol boat is in St. George getting fixed.  We arrived at Yuba around 13:00 and launched the boat.  We met up with Sanpete County search and rescue and started working a grid system with the boat in attempt to locate OCCUPANT.  We were able to see where OPERATOR was located on the shore and all the debris that was scattered on the shore from the capsized vessel.  With this information we were able to minimize our search area.  Around 15:00 DPS arrived with their search boat, sonar and divers.  We met with them and showed them the search area and where we suspected OCCUPANT might have went down.  DPS sent their sonar down and located an object 10 feet away from the sonar.  One of their divers suited up and went down.  The object was found by the diver and was in fact the body of OCCUPANT.  OCCUPANT was found in 17 feet of water about 50 yards out from the shore.   We contacted the ambulance and had them meet us on the shore nearby.  OCCUPANT was put on a stretcher and transported by the ambulance. 

INVESTIGATION
 I photographed the vessel, the debris and where OPERATOR was found.  Upon investigation the vessel did not have a capacity plate.  On the vessel was a 5 Horse Power outboard motor and an electric trolling motor.  Inside the boat was a full sized truck battery to run the motors, anchor, and other fishing equipment.  With the weight of all the equipment and the 2 occupants it was determined the vessel was over capacity.  This was likely a major factor in this incident.  There was no visible damage to the vessel or the motors.  A lot of gear was lost and scattered when the vessel capsized.  Among the gear on the shore were 2 life jackets.   We met up with some family near the boat launch and were able to retrieve the vessel and the equipment that had washed up on the shore.  We helped them load the vessel back on the trailer.

HOSPITAL
At the hospital when OPERATOR had recovered enough to talk he was able to give more information about the event. Around 17:00 on Sunday night while they were fishing the vessel started taking on water. OPERATOR decided to jump out of the vessel and try to make it back to shore. At one point OPERATOR looked back and saw the vessel capsize. He saw OCCUPANT go under water, come back up grasping for air and go back under the water. OPERATOR did not see OCCUPANT after that. OPERATOR made it to shore, but from the condition he was in was unable to move from the cold. OPERATOR spent the night laying on the beach. Temperatures reached 34 degrees that night. OPERATOR was found Monday morning and taken by helicopter.


BARDID: UT-2017-0004
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-06-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:09:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Sand Hollow Reservoir
NearestCityorTown: Hurricane
County: Washington
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Unknown
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
While on boat patrol on Sand Hollow Reservoir I was making an approach to the marina moving counterclockwise near the island.  As I came around a ledge I saw an aluminum boat with someone using a bucket to bail water out.  Someone started flagging me by hand.  I noticed their boat sagging at the rear and went closer.  In the span of about 30 seconds the boat had taken on significant water.  I radioed dispatch to page the county dive team and to bring bags to float a swamped boat.

I told the driver to beach the boat since the swamping was uncontrollable  While he did that I rigged a rope to my stern.  The only place to beach was a sandstone rock under the water about 4 feet.  After he put it against the rock they got out of the boat and gathered some belongings that were floating away.  I had him hook the rope to the bow of his boat.  I knew if the boat didn't have resistance it would rock back off the ledge and sink completely.  I used my slightly over idle speed to pull his boat over the tipping point of the rock.  I notified dispatch that all occupants were code 4.  We gathered belongings and waited for the dive team.  Once on scene the dive team floated the boat and I towed it back.

operator had no idea where the water came from.  He had been playing on the rocks with his family while the boat was tied off.  They got in to leave and the main engine was acting up so they started using the electric trolling motor.  The didn't strike anything but started taking on water. No holes were discovered when it was pulled out of the water.


BARDID: UT-2017-0005
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:34:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Sand Hollow Reservoir
NearestCityorTown: HURRICANE
County: Washington
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Sharp turn
AccidentCause3: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
SYNOPSIS
Responded to a medical call of a 17 year old year male going in and out of consciousness in the Sandpit Campground.

NARRATIVE
Medical Call/ Sandpit Campground #30

On July 14, 2017, I was called to the Sandpit Campground #30 for a 17 year old male that was going in and out of consciousness after being involved in a personal water craft (PWC) accident on Sand Hollow Reservoir. 

Arriving on scene, I found a 17 year old male sitting on the panic table holding his head in his hands. I started asking him basic questions to keep him conscious. Ranger arrived on scene and began to have the witnesses fill out witness statements. 

Hurricane City Fire and Rescue arrived on scene and took victim to the ambulance and stared an IV on him. They called his parents and got permission to transport him to Dixie Regional Medical Center in St. George, Utah.

INVESTIGATION/ACCIDENT
After interviewing witnesses and reading their statements, we discovered that Victim was on a water tube being pulled by a PWC. VICTIM was thrown from the water tube and when OPERATOR circled back around, he found VICTIM floating on his back. OPERATOR called out to VICTIM 4 times before he responded. OPERATOR pulled VICTIM onto his PWC and took him back to the beach. OPERATOR took VICTIM back to campsite #30, where he started to go in and out of consciousness. The accident happened approximately 30 minutes before I arrived on scene. 


EOR


BARDID: UT-2017-0006
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-06-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:16:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Deer Creek Reservoir
NearestCityorTown: Charleston
County: Wasatch
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
Tubing Accident-
Vessel owner and operator was pulling a tube with 3 occupants onboard.  While making a left turn, the tube went over the wake, then hit another wave in the area.  The tube tipped over to the starboard side causing the portside occupant, 18 years old, to be launched or thrown from the tube.  Victim landed hard and folded, injuring her lower neck or upper back.  The other occupants of the tube were uninjured.  They responded to screams of pain and helped her float on her back and stabilized her head until emergency help arrived.  

Emergency Aide & Rescue-
a park employee, and I responded to the 911 call of a girl with a possible broken neck who was still in the water after a tubing accident.  We located the patient in the water, provided Type IV throwables to aid in floatation of the patient and had a c-collar applied to the patient.  I stayed with the boat involved in the accident and Gibbs shuttled the medical crew to the scene from the boat dock.  EMT's used a backboard to recovered from water and place her in the boat.  Victim was transported by ambulance to Utah Valley Regional Hospital for her injuries.

Follow Up-  I contacted victim’s mother, who reported no serious injury to neck or back, and that she was sore but okay.


BARDID: UT-2017-0007
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:40:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Deer Creek Reservoir
NearestCityorTown: Charleston
County: Wasatch
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
Boat Activities-
Vessel 1 was purchased 3 days prior. Vessel 1 was traveling south along the west shoreline of Deer Creek Reservoir, across from the Island boat ramp. He was pulling a two person tube with two onboard. Vessel 1 had been pulling the tube for about 5 minutes.  OPERATOR1 reported that he was plowing through the water with the bow high and that he was traveling at a slow speed estimated to be 10-20 mph. 
 
Vessel 2 was as rented from the on site boat concession, Deer Creek Island Resort. Vessel 2 was pulling a tube at wakeless speed, occupied by three people. The witness was on a rented personal watercraft, following 50 yards behind the tube. 

Collision Events-
From interviews and statements, the following occurred. Vessel 1 traveled south, with bow up, at a constant speed. Vessel 2 traveled north at wakeless speed. Vessel 2 began to make a course correction to the left as the two vessels approached towards each other. While Vessel 2 turned left, Vessel 1 continued ahead and slightly to the right. As the two vessels continued toward each other, Vessel 2 put the boat in neutral from a wakeless speed to avoid the oncoming Vessel 1.  

Vessel 2 operator, drew a diagram that shows Vessel 1 approaching heading on, then as Vessel 2 slowed he showed Vessel 1 approaching from the right moving right to left in front of his bow. Vessel 2 nearly collided with the front bow of Vessel 2, passing within an estimated 3-10' from the bow without ever slowing down or making an avoidance maneuver. 

The operator of Vessel 1 admitted that he did not see Vessel 2 in front of him until he saw them to the left of his boat as he was passing them.  OPERATOR1 stated he tried to make an avoidance maneuver at that time.   Narrowly escaping a catastrophic vessel collision and certain ramp over, the tube pulled by Vessel 1 was pulled into the front right bow of Vessel 2. It is believed that Vessel 1 never reduced speed after passing Vessel 2. Both of Vessel 1's tube occupants impacted the side of Vessel 2, and where separated from the tube and thrown into the water.

Rescue-  
Vessel 2 operator and his wife jumped in the water to provide aide to victim2 who appeared unconscious They found her conscious and in pain.  She didn't realize what happened but was able to provide her name and number. Witness jumped into the water from his personal watercraft to rescue V1 victim1, who was screaming and bleeding from the mouth. He assisted her back into Vessel 1. V1 victim2 was placed aboard Vessel 2.  911 was immediately called. Dispatchers advised me of the collision accident, that people were in the water, and a location as Rainbow Bay. Dispatch reported both boats were drivable. I requested that the boats respond to the closest boat ramp, which was the Main ramp.

Contact and Medical Care-
I contacted both boats north of Rainbow Bay in my patrol vessel. I found that only the two girls had been injured after colliding with Vessel 2 in the tube. Vessel 2 reported that V1 victim2 likely had a concussion, but was not bleeding and had no apparently broken bones. I could see that she was vocal, and moving around a lot. I asked them to head to the Main dock to await the ambulance. I pulled along side Vessel 1, and found  Operator1 treating victim1.  She had an obvious broken nose, had a large tongue laceration, and damage to her teeth. I placed her in a c-collar to stabilize her neck. I provided gauze to apply to her bleeding mouth. I had OPERATOR1 follow me to the dock on my wake to give them smoother water behind me. Medical units arrived at the dock and provided care to both girls. I assisted medics on the dock. Both girls were transported to Utah Valley Regional Hospital. No other passengers reported any injuries.

Reporting-
I had the driver's each complete witness statements. Subject also provided a statement. I conducted vessel safety inspections of both vessels. Statements and interviews provided a pretty clear picture of what had occurred. OPERATOR1 admitted to not having seen the other vessel until he was passing it on the left. I found OPERATOR1 to be at fault for the accident and I cited him for improper lookout. Since the vessel was 3 days old, he told me he would need to get his insurance information, but that he had a 30 day window for new vehicles with his insurance. After contacting his insurance, he learned that the vessel was not covered by insurance, because it was a separate category. I added a second charge of No insurance on a vessel, before submitting the citation to the court.

Injuries-
An Aunt of one of the girls called to learn some basic details of the accident. I informed her what I knew at the time. She informed me of the girls conditions. I was informed that V1 victim2 was released from the hospital that evening with no major injuries. I was informed that Victim1 had more serious injuries but that she was stable. I was informed she had a broken lower leg, broken nose, lacerated tongue, and that she suffered serious injuries to her front teeth and roof of her mouth.


BARDID: UT-2017-0009
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:16:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Gunlock Reservoir
NearestCityorTown: Gunlock
County: Washington
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
OPERATOR was operating the boat at Gunlock Reservoir with his girlfriend wakeboarding behind it.  He said she had been up on the board a few times and after going down this time was ready to come into the boat.  

As she neared the stern of the boat, OPERATOR pulled the throttle back to what he believed to be neutral.  He was still near the driver seat but was not sitting down in it.  His attention was near the stern and heard victim’s father say "She just went under, go get her".  

OPERATOR say VICTIM come out from the boat on the mid to front port side.  He jumped into the water over the side of the boat and grabbed her with her life jacket on.  He pulled her to the stern of the boat and told VICTIM to hold onto a bar on the back of the boat while he pulled her in.  He could see all the wounds going from her mid leg to her torso and up her arm.  He grabbed a ski rope and used it as a tourniquet on her upper leg.  He told VICTIM’S FATHER to call 911 and they headed to the dock.  Life Flight was dispatched from DRMC.  OPERATOR used gauze to pack a wound near her lateral thorax.  He said she never lost consciousness and did not go into shock.  He continued monitoring her wounds until ALS showed up with Life Flight.

Interview with VICTIM’S FATHER:
The conversation with VICTIM’S FATHER was the same story with the added detail that as VICTIM got to the near of the boat she said something to the affect of "is it on?"  Wording varied but was to the effect that she wondered if the prop was running before she went under.  The other thing I asked VICTIM’S FATHER was if there was any foul play suspected and he said absolutely not.  

I gave my card and case number to OPERATOR and VICTIM’S FATHER.  They both mentioned that the water was choppy and sort of moved the boat around as she was preparing to board.  They believe the board was taken off before she went under the boat.


BARDID: UT-2017-0010
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Bear Lake
NearestCityorTown: Laketown
County: Rich
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause3: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 11, 2017, at around 1730 hours, two people were riding two PWCs they had rented from Rendezvous Rentals. According to both OPERATOR1 and OPERATOR2, they had been splashing each other most of the time they had been out. 

OPERATOR1 was coming in to splash OPERATOR2. As OPERATOR1 got close, he let off the throttle, which caused him to lose steering. OPERATOR1 ran into OPERATOR2 near the bow of the boat, causing the handlebars to break on OPERATOR2's machine. OPERATOR1 also created a hole in his machine. They got the PWCs back to the beach. They paid for all the damages with Rendezvous Rentals. Rendezvous Rentals called me to do a report.

After talking to all the involved parties, I cited OPERATOR1 for failure to observe speed and proximity. The workers at Rendezvous Rentals explained to me that they had told OPERATOR1 and OPERATOR2 about speed and proximity. OPERATOR1 and OPERATOR2 both signed the agreement waiver that had all the rules on it.

I concluded my investigation at 2002 hours.


BARDID: UT-2017-0011
State: UT
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2017-07-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:40:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Utah Lake
NearestCityorTown: Provo
County: Utah
WaterConditions: Unknown
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Hull failure
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On June 29, 2017 at approximately 18:30 hours I was informed by subject, as I was leaving the marina in the 27 ft vessel and as he was towing in another vessel, that his pontoon boat had sunk but everyone was off the vessel and OK and the vessel was still out in the lake.  I informed him that when I got back we could talk about the timeline on recovering the vessel.

While out on the water investigating an algae bloom I stumbled onto the sunken pontoon boat.  It was upside down with the bow sticking out of the water about 4 - 5 feet.  I notified dispatch of its location and that it would stay in place for a couple of days.  When I returned to the park SUBJECT was not located and we started calling each other.  Once we got a hold of each other he stated that operator1 had run his pontoon boat onto Bird Island and while towing it back it had sunk.  SUBJECT stated that the operator1 was fine and had left the park.  He stated he had their contact information and would pass it to me in the morning.  

At about 20:00 hours Operator1 contacted me via dispatch.  He informed me that he was on his way to the airport with his family to return to New York.  He provided me his email address and agreed to provide me with witness statements from everyone on board the vessel.  I asked him what happened and he stated that the pontoon boat would not start and that while being towed back by SUBJECT that the vessel sank out from underneath him.  He stated that everyone was OK.  He also stated that he never once felt the vessel strike any object that could puncture the pontoons.

On July 1, 2017 a buoy was placed on the sunken vessel and dispatched was informed of the vessels adjusted location.  With the holiday weekend removing the vessel had become impractical and there was no sign of oil or fuel leakage.  The vessel was finally removed on Wednesday July 5, 2017.

Operator1 sent me witness statements on July 11, 2017 and SUBJECT provided me his witness statement on July 14, 2017. Injury-was sustained when the injured was thrown from the vessel during its capsizing. 
Vessels- Vessel 1 is the rental pontoon boat that capsized; vessel 2 was an open motor boat that retrieved all occupants of vessel 1 and returned them back to the marina; vessel 3 was a PWC and the tow vessel.
Capsizing- The vessel did not ground at any time, damage that caused hull failure must have occurred prior to this rental time period.


END REPORT


BARDID: UT-2017-0012
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-04-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:09:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Deer Creek Reservoir
County: Wasatch
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On April 29 at roughly 1500 hours I was on the main ramp at Deer Creek State Park when I saw a pontoon boat attempt to load onto the trailer. The trailer appeared to be too shallow for the size of boat being loaded. The driver of the boat was having a difficult time keeping the boat straight. 

As Operator was getting close to the trailer he came in at angle and hit his trailer with the starboard side of the pontoon. Operator was able to back up, straighten up his boat to the trailer. The truck began to back up further into the water, where Operator was then able to load his boat. This time span was roughly7-10 minutes and winds felt over 10 mph. as the driver of the truck pulled the boat and trailer out of the water I saw a significant gash and hole in the starboard side of the pontoon boat. I asked Operator if he would like a report, he said sure. I then asked him what he thought the damage cost, Operator said I don't know probably $2000. There were no injuries, thus I took down the information needed for the report and once the AIS technicians verified he was tagged, Operator left.


BARDID: UT-2017-0014
State: UT
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2017-07-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Bear Lake
NearestCityorTown: Garden City
County: Rich
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: Excessive speed
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
Synopsis:

I was called out for a PWC accident.

Narrative:

On July 18, 2017, at 1515 hours, I was called by dispatch to respond to a PWC versus PWC accident. I was told it happened just in front of the Marina. I was also told both of the PWCs were rentals. I responded to the Marina and arrived at 1524 hours. 

I found the group talking to the rental company, so I grabbed one of the employees and had him show me the damage. I took pictures of the damage and asked for the estimated cost. I was told both PWCs would be a total loss.

Accident:

OPERATOR1 told me she was operating the PWC and heading towards OPERATOR2. OPERATOR1 was not experienced enough to know how far she needed to go to stop. OPERATOR1 ran into OPERATOR2, with the port bow of her machine running into the starboard bow of OPERATOR2's machine. 

The rental company got the report of the accident and towed the vessels back to the beach north of the Marina.

OPERATOR2 had a laceration in his elbow. He refused medical and told me he was going to the clinic to have it checked out.

Citation and Conclusion:

After my investigation, I cited OPERATOR2 for failing to observe speed and proximity. I left the scene at 1617 hours.


BARDID: UT-2017-0015
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-06-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Quail Creek Reservoir
NearestCityorTown: Hurricane
County: Washington
WaterConditions: Unknown
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
While on fire duty I received a call from Sand Hollow State Park manager.  She told me there had been a boating accident at Quail Creek and to call the boat operator to take a report by phone.  She had a name and number that she gave me and told me that's all the information she had received.

By phone I contacted subject who told me she had been trying to wakeboard with her husband, who went down in the water.  She made a turn to pick him up.  As she approached him some wind shifted the boat into the path of the person in the water.  She could tell she wouldn't be able to avoid him and turned the engine off.  The boat went over the man who was wearing a life jacket and still had the wakeboard attached to his feet according to her.  She had been to the hospital with him and told me there was a prop strike wound on his lower leg on the outer side.  She thinks the board was struck first before striking his leg.

She sent me the required information to add to the report while I am away on fire duty.


BARDID: UT-2017-0017
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-05-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Utah Lake
NearestCityorTown: Provo
County: Utah
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Grounding
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
AccidentCause2: Overloading
AccidentCause3: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was traveling back towards the marina.  The wind was blowing at 10-15 MPH which caused there to be 2-4 foot waves.  Vessel one was a smaller bass boat with a low profile.  Vessel 1 had recently been purchased, and the owner/operator did not have much experience operating.  Vessel 1 had five individuals aboard which may have lead the vessel to be overloaded.  

Just as Vessel 1 was about to come around the South Jetty at Utah Lake State Park, two waves came over the bow, and swamped the vessel, and pushed it onto the rocks of the Jetty.  All passengers were able to get out of the vessel and quickly get onto shore.  

Conservation Officer was first on scene, and brought my attention to the accident.  I was on patrol on the South end of the lake, and radioed the Coast Guard Auxiliary and alerted them to the accident.  Members of the Coast Guard Auxiliary were the first support vessel on scene.  The Coast Guard Auxiliary was able to attach onto the bow eye of Vessel 1, and to tow it to the boat ramp.  Officer assisted in loading the vessel onto the owners boat trailer.


BARDID: UT-2017-0018
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-05-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Powell
County: Kane
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
INITIAL CALL:

At approximately 1200 hrs on 5/27/17 NPS Dispatch notified me that Ararmark executive services had gone to retrieve a vessel that had struck rocks down near Slick Rock Canyon.  I went to the executive services to inquire about this boat and was told they were still towing it toward Bullfrog and would let us know when they got the vessel here.

INVESTIGATION:

At approximately 1430 hrs I was notified that the vessel and its owner were at the Bullfrog launch ramp so I proceeded there to conduct the vessel accident investigation.  I spoke with subject who informed me it was his vessel and that he had been driving it when the accident took place.  He stated that the previous evening, 5/26/17, at approximately 1930 hours he was traveling down stream in the main channel just entering the Rincon area of the lake.  He stated he was traveling at 29 mph when he struck a rock outcropping just under the water surface.

After striking the rocks he stated that he started to drive back towards Bullfrog but noticed the vessel was taking on a considerable amount of water.  He stated they found a safe beach near Slick Rock Canyon and beached the vessel, keeping the bilge pump running over night.  He got in contact with Aramark to get them to tow him back and to use their extra de-watering pump.

All the damage was consistent with story.  From his description I am confident I know the rock outcropping he hit.  It is outside the green channel marker buoy in that location and vessels have to steer significantly to go around the channel marker.  Many vessels cut this corner and strike the rocks located there when the water level is at this current elevation.


BARDID: UT-2017-0019
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-05-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Powell
County: San Juan
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Hull failure
AccidentCause2: Equipment failure
EquipmentFailure: Auxiliary
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
INITIAL CALL:

At approximately 1000 hrs on 5/29/17 NPS dispatch called me and informed me there was a houseboat with 18 people on board taking on water and sinking near buoy 84.  They stated it was Aramark rental houseboat T-51 I agreed to respond.

INVESTIGATION:

I arrived on scene just behind NPS Ranger.  Ranger was instructing all the occupants of the boat to put on their PFD's.  I noticed the rear right side of the house boat was noticeably lower in the water.  I pulled along side the rear left side of the vessel and boarded the houseboat and noticed the bilge pump was pumping out some water on that side.  I lifted the motor compartment covers and saw there was about 8 inches of water in the port side motor compartment and about 3 feet of water in the starboard side motor.  I retrieved my de-watering pump from my vessel and moved my vessel over to the starboard side.  I placed my de-watering pump in the starboard side motor compartment and began to pump the water out.

While it pumped out I spoke to one adult male on the vessel and was told they had had several mechanical issues with the boat throughout their trip.  He stated that they had noticed water in the starboard side motor compartment for a couple days but not this much.  He stated that they had been having trouble getting the starboard motor to run for several days but that they had never struck anything with the vessel.  He stated that on this day both motors had died and wouldn't run, likely due to the amount of water in the motor compartments.  He stated the person who had rented the vessel had taken their power boat in toward Bullfrog to get help because they could not raise anyone on the radio.

I continued the pump out the water waiting for Aramark to arrive with their chase boat and mechanic.  The Aramark employee arrived with the houseboat renter and he took over pumping out the motor compartment which was almost dry.  I asked Subject to fill out a witness statement as the houseboat renter and primary operator, which he did.

I confirmed with the Aramark employee that he was okay with staying and waiting for their tow vessel which was in route before clearing the scene.  The engines will have significant water damage.  It is unknown how or why the vessel was taking on water but it appears it may have had a constant leak that eventually overcame the bilge on the starboard side, which was not working.  This allowed the motor compartment to fill making the vessel unsafe and likely to capsize had it continued taking on more water.


BARDID: UT-2017-0021
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Jordanelle Reservoir
NearestCityorTown: cramner
County: Wasatch
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Hull failure
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Synopsis: I was dispatched to a sinking personal watercraft by the beach area at Jordanelle State Park. I found out the operator of the vessel was alcohol restricted and interlock restricted. I cited the operator for interlock restricted.

Narrative:
On Scene: On July 1, 2017 at approximately 19:15 hours, I was patrolling on the water at Jordanelle State Park. I received a call from Wasatch County Dispatch about a sinking vessel around the beach area.  I went over and found a red personal watercraft with the nose sticking out of the water. Another vessel had already hooked a rope to the PWC and was towing it towards the shore. I asked them to two it closer to the shore and then let the operator and owners haul it the rest of the way to the shore. Once it was on shore I performed a vessel inspection and found the operator was alcohol restricted and interlock restricted. I cited the operator for interlock restricted. The PWC was taking on water and the plugs were in the machine. The owner was able to get it out of the water and load up on a trailer. I cleared the scene back to patrol.


BARDID: UT-2017-0022
State: UT
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2017-07-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:03:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Sand Hollow Reservoir
NearestCityorTown: HURRICANE
County: Washington
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Synopsis

Responded to the Main Boat Ramp at Sand Hollow State Park on a boat that had sunk as it was being launched.

Narrative

On July 2, 2017, I was called by a seasonal employee working at the entrance station at Sand Hollow State Park and informed of a boat that had sunk at the main boat ramp. I notified dispatch and proceeded to the Main Boat Ramp. Arriving on scene, I could only see the front 2 feet of the boat still above water. The only thing keeping the boat from completely sinking was a rope that was tied to the dock. I made contact with the boat owner and verified that no one was hurt and that no one was on board. 

I hurried and got in the Sand Hollow Patrol Boat and activated its emergency equipment and parked the patrol boat at the end of the dock, blocking the public from accidently hitting the boat. I called out Washington County Search and Rescue to recover the boat. While waiting for Search and Rescue to arrive, the boat owner informed me that he had just purchased the boat the day before and that he had forgotten to put in the drain plug when he launched the boat. 

Search and Rescue arrive on scene and used an air bag attached to the back end of the boat to float it back onto its trailer. Before they loaded the boat onto the trailer, Search and Rescue verified that there was no drain plug in the boat. As the boat was pulled from the water, I could clearly see that there was no plug in the drain plug hole. 
We pulled the boat off the ramp to drain so we would not contaminate the water with fuel or oil further. I released the boat at that time.

EOR


BARDID: UT-2017-0023
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-06-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:42:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Powell
NearestCityorTown: Page Arizona
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Failure to vent
AccidentCause2: Ignition of spilled fuel or vapor
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
Synopsis:
Lake Powell- Individual was jump starting PWC when hooking up jumper cables to battery, explosion occurred, causing individual to have severe burns to arms and face.  Individual was life flighted to Las Vegas for further treatment of injuries.

Narrative:
Initial Call:
On 6/30/2017, approximately 1522 hours, I Ranger was patrolling Lake Powell with seasonal employee's  when we heard over the radio an electric shock victim at the State Line Fuel docks, with one individual in the water.   I notified Dispatch that I would be en route to the incident from Padre Bay.  I could also hear over the radio other National Park Service (NPS) Rangers responding and arriving on scene as well.  

On scene:
Approximately 1540 hours, I arrived on scene to the Aramark Fuel docks location and noticed the Ambulance just leaving the launch ramp area.  I asked NPS Rangers if there was just 1 individual and 1 vessel involved.  They stated that from what they know only 1 person and vessel.  I was able to take a few pictures of the PWC when I arrived, I asked if the PWC had been altered in any way they told me "no" but it was towed to the other side away from the fuel dock in case of it catching fire.   One of the NPS Rangers told me that the victim was able to walk under his own power, but had burns to his arms and face.  I realized that the victim's wife was talking with other NPS Rangers and wanted to get going to the hospital to be with her husband.  

wife Contact:
I asked if she had witnessed the incident she told me she did not.  She told me that one of her kids was nearby at the fuel dock.  She told me they had got gas and were going to jumpstart another PWC, when Victim had hooked up the jumper cables caught fire and burned his arms and face and he fell into the water.  I explained that I would get her information from her and help her during this difficult time with her jet skis, as she was not comfortable towing a trailer without her husband around.  She told me that the PWC's belonged to a friend of hers in St. George and they had left Lake Powell earlier.  

I was able have the subjects hold the Jet Skis' at the State Line dock until I returned from getting the PWC trailer with VICTIM’S WIFE.  I followed VICTIM’S WIFE to her vehicle at Antelope Point Marina parking lot and took her trailer and loaded the 2 jet skis at State Line Marina.  At this time VICTIM’S WIFE told me her husband was being flown to Las Vegas for his injuries.  VICTIM’S WIFE thanked me for helping her and headed to page hospital to fill out paperwork.

Investigation:
Subjects told me that while waiting for me to arrive with the trailer they heard some crackling down in the battery area and to be careful.  We carefully loaded the PWC's without further incident and secured them to the trailer.  I was able to take pictures of the way the jumper cables were hooked up and did not notice any crossing of positive and negative cables or obvious connection problems.  In an open air environment I could smell the strong odor of gasoline coming from the Jet Ski.  

I did not feel comfortable unhooking the cables from the battery until I knew why they had burned up.  I called NPS Ranger who felt comfortable taking off the jumper cables.  We both came to the conclusion of what had happened was fuel vapors were compacted under the battery compartment and when VICTIM had leaned over to put connect the jumper cables a spark had ignited the vapors causing an explosion. It is possible that VICTIMS arm and face were down close to the battery compartment, which would be consistent with where the majority of the burns were to his arms and face.

OTHER:
The PWC was borrowed; I contacted owner and let him know where he could pick up the Jet Ski. OWNER told me that he does not have the PWC's in his name, but they are registered to another subject. OWNER also was able to provide me with the insurance information. Pictures taken would not upload to this report.

7/3/2017
I spoke with VICTIM’S WIFE she updated me on Victims condition, stating he was still sedated and should be coming out of sedation soon. He will have skin grafts done on his arms. I gave her the case number for this report. I explained to her that I would like to follow up with Victim for a statement on what happened. I explained to VICTIM’S WIFE what I believed happened during my investigation.


BARDID: UT-2017-0024
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Deer Creek Reservoir
NearestCityorTown: Wallsburg
County: Wasatch
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
At roughly 1745 on July 3, 2017. I was walking from the main boat dock to the ramp when a man approached me and said his wife had hurt her back and was laying on the surf deck of their boat, in the parking lot. He said it hurt her to move, we quickly walked over to the boat as I radioed for EMS to respond. 

The patient was laying flat on her back with a towel draped over her legs and a hat and sunglasses covering her eyes. I asked her a few questions and asked her not to move anything. Victim was in a stable position and comfortable, I decided to wait until EMS arrived to have them further evaluate after my initial assessment. 

Victim told me she had been sitting in the bow of the boat when a big wave came, and after its affects she felt a sharp lower back pain that shot up her back. Victim’s husband told me he had been operating the boat around 5-10 mph and slowed as the wake approached. Victim’s husband did not know the vessel that caused the wake or that it had come from a vessel within 150 feet. 

When Victim’s husband noticed that Victim was hurt he brought the vessel back in; where it was loaded onto the trailer and parked in the main boat parking lot before contacting me. EMS arrived at roughly 1815, I had taken down the vessel and passenger information prior to there arrival. When EMS arrived I help load Victim onto the gurney and into the ambulance.

End of Report


BARDID: UT-2017-0025
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:20:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Hyrum Reservoir
NearestCityorTown: Hyrum
County: Cache
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person departed vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
INITIAL CONTACT: I was contacted by subject who asked if he could leave a boat tied to the dock overnight. He went on to explain that the owner of the boat had been hit by the boat propeller and was taken to the hospital. I obtained boat information and went to the emergency room at Logan Regional Hospital.

AT HOSPITAL: I located two people at Logan Regional Hospital. I also asked for insurance information for the boat. They did not have insurance information for the boat with them. 

ACCIDENT: Operator was operating vessel #1, with two people being pulled on a tube behind the boat. Vessel #1 was turning and came close to the tube. Tuber1 jumped off of the tube and the boat propeller hit his right foot. He was then transported by personal vehicle to Logan Regional Hospital.

INSURANCE INFORMATION: As of 7/12/17 I had not received any insurance information for vessel #1. I contacted Tuber1 by phone and asked him about the insurance information. He said that there was no insurance.


BARDID: UT-2017-0026
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:39:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Deer Creek Reservoir
NearestCityorTown: Heber
County: Wasatch
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Victim was wakeboarding and jumped a wake.  When she landed she broke her lower right leg.  They informed park staff of the accident on the boat ramp.  Medical responded to stabilize the leg, remove her from the boat, and transport her to the hospital.


BARDID: UT-2017-0027
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:08:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Willard Bay
NearestCityorTown: Willard
County: Box Elder
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 9, 2017 about 15:08 hours Vessel 1 was drifting and retrieving a tube that fell off the boat (five occupants). Vessel 1 was facing Westbound. Vessel 2 was traveling Westbound with a retrieved life jacket from Vessel 1. Vessel 2 was traveling above a wakeless speed. Vessel 2 struck the starboard side wakeboard tower front mount of vessel 1 with the port side of the wakeboard tower of vessel 2. 

DAMAGE:

Vessel 1: crushed damage into the hull where the front  wakeboard tower mounts. Striations on exterior of starboard side hull.

Vessel 2: Unknown. 

CONCLUSION:

Occupants of vessel 1 retrieved a name and phone number of vessel 2. He did not remain at the scene. The accident was reported to the Coast Guard Auxiliary. It was then reported to me. I met with them about 17:24 hours to take the report. The description of vessel 2 was a black and white Mastercraft with the words "dirty deeds". Operator2 openly admitted to them he did not have insurance. Charges are being filed through the Box Elder County Attorneys Office. 
NOTES:

In relation to Case number 2017-001734


BARDID: UT-2017-0030
State: UT
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2017-07-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:54:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Sand Hollow Reservoir
NearestCityorTown: Hurricane
County: Washington
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Person departed vessel
AccidentEvent3: Capsizing
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
I responded from the main office area to a dispatch of a capsized boat with 12-13 people onboard.  I activated my lights and siren and got to the dock were Ranger and launched the patrol boat.  I activated the lights and siren from the dock and got on plain toward the Jumping Rocks where the incident was said to be.  The water was very rough with waves of 3'-4' from peak to trough.  Wind was approx 25mph and from the southwest.

As I neared the Jumping Rocks I saw a lot of people swimming near the rocks but no one in distress.  Then I looked further toward the dam and saw a debris field and a boat bobbing with the boat upside down with maybe 2' out of the water.  As I got closer I saw some people swimming toward the shore which was about  60' from the boat.  I got in close to the shore and had Ranger get off to locate the party.  I told her to get a head count and I backed out away from the rocks.  She was able to locate the owner and all 12 members of the party.  I asked her over the radio if any needed medical.  She said no which was relayed to dispatch.  The boat kept drifting and made its way to a cove where it stayed afloat with bottom up.  Members of the party were gathered and I told Ranger to pick a few people and the owner.  We would boat them back and have Ranger go back with her truck to get the rest.  We loaded operator and two girls and took them to the main dock.  I confirmed no medical needs.

According to OPERATOR, the series of events were:
-wakeboarding near the north dam on the west side
-they brought the wakeboarder in due to increasing waves
-while loading the took a few waves over the top of the boat
-OPERATOR emptied the ballast tanks
-she began to throttle into the waves but the rolling waves crashed into the boat
-she had everyone put on lifejackets
-as boat took on an unrecoverable amount of water she told everyone to get off
-she and one friend stayed on to the point of it going under and then they got off as it listed on its side
-everyone was off at the point the waves rolled the boat onto its top

The county dive team came out and after the storm stopped we went to recover it.  As the boat was rolled onto its side, the bilge button was seen in the on position and it was pumping water.  The boat was fully rolled upright and I towed it to the main dock with the park boat.  It was put on the trailer and slowly pulled out as water was drained.  I called OPERATOR around 2030 hours and we agreed she would pick it up in the morning.  Due to the water still left in the boat I had her sign a liability release before taking it onto the road.


BARDID: UT-2017-0031
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:05:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: East Canyon Reservoir
NearestCityorTown: Morgan
County: Morgan
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 3 at approximately 1905 hours I received a call from Ranger from Rockport State Park telling me there was a wake boarder accident at East Canyon State Park. I called dispatch and they did not receive a call about a boat accident. Five minutes later Deputy Ranger informed me there was a wake boarder accident. 

we drove to the government dock and waited for Morgan County EMS. Morgan County EMS arrived shortly after we did and we transported them to the boat. The boat was beached and the passenger was sitting on the swim deck. The victim sustained a left dislocated shoulder when she crashed while wake boarding. Morgan County EMS attended to the injury while I took boat and driver information. Morgan County EMS treated victim on scene and she did not require any transport.  Apparently a boat had stopped to assist called Rockport State Park informing the gate staff there was a boat accident at East Canyon Reservoir We cleared the scene at 1946 hours. I transported Morgan County EMS back to the docks.


BARDID: UT-2017-0032
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 01:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Jordanelle Reservoir
NearestCityorTown: Heber City
County: Wasatch
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
I was contacted by subject who requested a BARD Report for damage he caused to another vessel. OPERATOR1 stated that at around 1:00 AM on July 24, 2017 he was attempting to dock his vessel on the lease docks at Jordanelle State Park. OPERATOR1 stated the rear starboard side of his vessel collided with the trolling motor on the sailboat next to him causing the trolling motor to break from its mount and submerge into the water. OPERATOR1 was unable to retrieve the motor. OPERATOR1 had already made contact with the vessels owner and agreed to replace the motor. OPERATOR1 requested a report for the insurance claim. The motor that was sunk was valued at $2,000 according to OPERATOR1.


BARDID: UT-2017-0034
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-06-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Powell
NearestCityorTown: Bullfrog
County: Kane
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause2: Congested waters
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
Narrative:

A full report was done on this; however, it was lost when it was submitted to the server. The details of the incident are from witness accounts and what I could remember On June 23 2017, 

On June 23 2017 at approximately 1100 hours myself and Ranger received a report that a wave runner was hit by a brown and white ski boat, and that it had left the scene of the accident. The boat was last seen leaving the main boat dock in Bullfrog marina heading towards Halls Creek Bay. We went down to the dock to make contact with the operator of the wave runner who reported the accident to gather further information so we could try to find the boat that hit the wave runner.  

The National Park Rangers talked with the operator of the wave runner before we arrived. He stated he had no serious injury, but that his knee was sore. He stated that he and another wave runner were leaving Halls Creek Bay with a house boat entering on his port left side. They slowed down to let the houseboat pass them. as soon as they slowed down they said a brown ski boat tried to shoot the gap in between them and the house boat. He was struck by the front of the ski boat. 

We decided to start our search in Halls Creek Bay because the accident occurred  at the mouth of the bay and the boat appeared to be heading back in the same direction. We headed out on our patrol boat after our conversation with Operator2 . Once we got to Halls Creek Bay we started looking for the red and white Chris Craft Boat along the shore. several minutes into or search up the bay we spotted the suspected boat in a small cove anchored to a houseboat. 

We pulled up to the houseboat and talked to the owner of the boat and asked him if he was driving at the time of the accident. He informed us that he was not, his dad was driving. We asked to talk to him. Operator1 confessed to hitting the wave runner while exiting Halls Creek Bay to the main channel. He stated the wave runners were in front of him as a house boat approached on his port left side. The rocky shore was to his starboard right side. has he was looking to his right to make sure he had enough room to clear the rooks he said he looked and the wave runners were stopped and he hit them with port side bow before he could stop his boat. He stopped and asked if everyone was okay then left to go to the Bullfrog Mariana. 

We asked him why he did not wait for law enforcement to take a report when he got to the marina and he stated he did not feel the accident was worth reporting. We had him and his passenger fill out witness statements. We cited Operator1 with leaving the scene of an accident. 

The information is limited due to the fact that I had write the report a second time several months after the accident occurred. 

End of Report


BARDID: UT-2017-0035
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-08-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Powell
County: Kane
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
SYNOPSIS:

I responded to a medical call at the Wahweap Boat rentals docks.  A 15 year old male had received lacerations to his leg from a propeller cut.  NPS Rangers provided initial treatment and transport to a suitable landing zone before transferring patient to Classis Lifeguard staff.  I conducted the vessel accident investigation.

INITIAL CALL:

At approximately 1245 hrs on 8/12/17 I overheard NPS dispatch calling NPS Ranger and informing him of a medical patient in route to Wahweap Boat rentals with a laceration.  I also responded to Wahweap boat rentals to assist.  Upon arriving on scene I found Ranger and a good samaritan providing treatment to a 15 year old male seated in a rental power boat.  Ranger informed me the male had received lacerations to his right thigh from the propeller on the vessel.  I assisted them in loading the male patient onto their gurney.

INVESTIGATION:

I spoke with an adult male German National, who stated he was the male patients father and the operator of the vessel at the time of the accident.  I quickly acquired his personal information and his son's information as we walked to the NPS ambulance.  I interviewed Operator about the incident and he stated that his son had been attempting to water ski and had fallen.  Operator had driven the boat back to pick him up and had apparently gotten too close to Victim with the vessel still in gear and the propeller had struck and cut the back of Victim's right thigh.

I later spoke with Victim's mother, and acquired her information as well as her daughters, who was also on the rental vessel.  She also confirmed to me what Operator had stated had occurred.  I also collected the vessel's information for the report and gave her my card.

Victim was air lifted to St. George for treatment of his lacerations.


BARDID: UT-2017-0036
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Echo Reservoir
NearestCityorTown: Coalville
County: Summit
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
SYNOPSIS
On July 23, 2017, I responded to a boat accident at Echo Reservoir involving two jetskis. The operator of the Gray Skidoo drove into the port side of a yellow Skidoo. The driver of the yellow Skidoo suffered a left leg injury during the accident and would be transported by ambulance to Children's Primary in Salt Lake. The passenger on the yellow Skidoo did not have any injuries. 

NARRATIVE
On July 23, 2017, I was notified by Summit County dispatch of a boat accident that occurred at Echo Reservoir. They explained that it involved two Jetskies and that medical was already enroute to the scene. 
I responded to the scene without the use of light or siren and located a femalealready being loaded onto a back board. 

There was a male person next to the dock on a yellow Skidoo. I asked him if he was involved in the accident he said yes. I asked him to stay at the dock and asked him where the second Jetski was? He pointed to a grey Skidoo Jetski. I asked him to tell the driver to also stay near the dock. Both individuals complied. I then assisted the medical staff with treating Operator1. I noted that Operator1 was in extreme pain and the medical staff had a traction splint on her left leg. I did not see any other injuries on Operator1. 

Once Operator1 was loaded into the ambulance. I was able to obtain the paperwork from both vessels. I asked that both Jetskies be placed on the trailer so I may examine the damage. Both operators complied and pull the vessels out of the water. 

During this time I met up with the owner of the vessels and asked for his information. I identified the owner of the vessels. 

Once the machines were out of the water I asked who was operating each of the PWCs. The male individual from before said that he was a passenger on the yellow Skidoo and Operator1 was the driver of the same vessel. I identified the passenger. V1 occupant explained that his grandmother was driving the other vessel. I asked where she was at. He explained that they followed the ambulance to the hospital. I asked if I could get her information. An individual within the group was able to provide me information. I would also get her contact number and conduct a phone interview later. 

I asked V1 occupant if he remembered what happen. He explained that he and Operator1 just switch positions on the Jetski and were sitting still in the water when his grandmother (Operator2) approached them. He said that Operator2 panicked when she got close to them and squeezed the throttle. This caused the Jetski to strike Operator1 in the thigh causing her injuries. I ask how fast he thought Operator2 was going. He said under 10mph, not fast at all. V1 occupant explained that she just panicked and that was it. 

I looked over the two Jetskies found damage to only the yellow Skidoo. The yellow Skidoo jetski had damage to the port side of the vessel. I noted the fiberglass was damaged along the bottom where the feet wells are located. There were two tares in the seat. The first tare was approximately 1 inch long located on the port side of the passenger seat. The second tare is on the top of the seat near the middle compartment. I also found damage to the plastic cover on the port side of the vessel. I did not see any damage to the gray Skidoo. 

Once I took photos of the damage and obtained everyone's information I cleared the scene.

On July 25, 2017 and July 28, 2017, I made several phone calls to both drivers of the jetski's. I left messages, but have not received a call back at the time of this report. A supplement report will be attached to this report if I receive any returned phone calls. 

CONCLUSION
In looking over the damage to the yellow jetski and listening to V1 occupant (Witness & Passenger), I have come to the conclusion on what took place. Operator1 and V1 occupant were sitting still on a Skidoo jetski at Echo Reservoir. This is known by the damage to the handle strap on the yellow jetski. Markings on the strap show little to no movement. V1 occupant had just switched positions and Operator1 was now sitting in the driver's seat. 

Operator2 operating a gray skidoo was attempting to pull alongside them. As Operator2 got closer I feel she panicked and squeezed the throttle in an attempt to get the jetski to turn. However Operator2 ran into the port side of the yellow Skidoo. The vessel ramped up over the foot well and into the plastic cover on the port side of the yellow Skidoo. During this time the vessel struck Operator1 in the upper thigh area causing the injury.

The gray Skidoo continued to ramp up on top of the yellow skidoo. This was shown by the small tear in the seat. I feel the gray skidoo stopped at this point and did not continue over the yellow skidoo. I did not note any damage to the starboard side of the yellow Skidoo. 

Operator2 was above a wakeless speed during this accident and she is an inexperienced operator. These are two factors that played a part in this accident. Operator2 left the scene before I could talk with her and it is unknown if alcohol or drugs played a part.

End of Report.


BARDID: UT-2017-0038
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-08-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:17:00
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
NameOfBodyOfWater: Deer Creek Reservoir
NearestCityorTown: Heber City
County: Wasatch
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
OPERATOR and his wife were kayaking on a 13' tandem Malibu kayak they had rented from Deer Creek Cove a concessionaire in the state park. At 1510 hours they were roughly 60 feet from shore in Wallsburg Bay on Deer Creek Reservoir. Their vessel capsized, causing them to fall over board. The vessel had two life jackets on board but neither person was wearing them. They started to scream for help, as they did not know how to swim. A bystander on a nearby vessel saw them fight to get out of the water, but then only saw OPERATOR’S WIFE on the surface. Subject was on the nearby vessel and dove in after them, he was able to assist operator’s wife get on his boat, with someone on the boat pulling her aboard. Subject dove several more times into the water looking for OPERATOR, but due to poor visibility, and extreme depth; it was to no avail. 


BARDID: UT-2017-0039
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-08-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:55:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Bear Lake
NearestCityorTown: Garden City
County: Rich
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause3: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Time, Date, and Location:
Accident occurred at or near 11:55 hours on 8/12/2017 in the general area of Ideal Beach on Bear Lake, Utah.

Narrative:
At @ 12:03 hours on 8/12/2017, I was notified by Rich Dispatch of a PWC versus PWC accident with a 15 year old female with a possible broken leg.  Medical was being paged.  The location of the people involved was reported as the PWC dock at the Ideal Beach marina.  I responded from just north of the State Park marina.

I arrived on scene @ 12:12 hours and found VICTIM sitting down on the dock, with her right lower leg wrapped in ice and a towel,  She was being held by subject1.  I assessed VICTIM's condition and asked a few questions regarding what had happened.  

When the first EMT arrived on scene, I stepped away and began to gather information regarding the accident and locating the others that were involved in the accident.  I was able to gather information from VICTIM, and three others.

I had difficulty in obtaining a proper look at and assessment of the damages that may have occurred due to the fact the owner of the two vessels, EPIC RECREATION was in a hurry to get the two vessels back into rental status.  The photos I was able to take already had the next renters on them.  I was not able to take a look at the vessels out of the water.

After being assessed by the EMTs, victim was self transported to the hospital via their private vehicle.

I cleared the scene @ 12:49 hours.

I completed this report and my investigation of the accident on 8/13/2017.  Based upon my investigation, operator2 will receive a citation via mail - Failure to take action to avoid a collision, with warnings for failure to maintain speed in proximity, and failure to yield right of way in an overtaking situation.


Accident description:
Based upon verbal answers to my oral interview questions, from both vessel operators and both passengers, it is my opinion that the following occurred:

OPERATOR1 was operating vessel #1, with VICTIM as a passenger, in a straight direction at an estimated speed of about 25 mph. 

OPERATOR2 was operating vessel #2, with V2 OCCUPANT as a passenger, in a straight direction at an estimated speed of about 25 mph.

Vessel #2 was following vessel #1 at an estimated distance of 25 to 30 feet to the right and rear.

Vessel #1 made a right turn in front of vessel #2.  Vessel #2 was unable to avoid a collision with vessel #1 due to its speed and close proximity to vessel #1.  Vessel #2 struck vessel #1 at an angle less than 90 degrees with its hull impacting with the right foot well/gunnel of vessel #1.  It appeared that vessel #2 also struck OPERATOR1 and VICTIM with its rub rail.  VICTIM was struck in her right hand as it was holding the passenger handle.  VICTIM was struck in the lower right leg.  OPERATOR1 was also struck in the lower right leg.


BARDID: UT-2017-0040
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-08-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 07:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Willard Bay
NearestCityorTown: Willard
County: Box Elder
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
INCIDENT:

On the morning of August 4, 2017 about 07:15 hours two people were traveling Northbound on a 15 ft Green Kayak Boat with a 9.8 horsepower motor. They were not wearing life jackets. The location was Willard Bay Reservoir,  300 yards West of the North Marina Channel, Willard City, UT The reservoir was choppy. Another boat came by their boat producing a wake. The wake overturned the Kayak sending both into the water. It was not stated the distance of the other boat in relation to theirs. They gathered life jackets that were in the boat and put them on. 


One person was showing signs of hypothermia. They were cleared by medical personnel on scene and did not need to be transported to the hospital

The boat was recovered and returned.


BARDID: UT-2017-0041
State: UT
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2017-06-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Rockport Reservoir
NearestCityorTown: Wanship
County: Summit
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
SYNOPSIS
On June 23, 2017, I responded to the gate for a female that was on a standup paddle board that was almost struck by a wakeboard boat. She did not have any injuries, but wanted me to talk to the driver of the wakeboarding boat. I contacted the wakeboarding boat and made sure that everyone had exchanged correct information.  

NARRATIVE
On June 23, 2017, I was patrolling Rockport State Park when our gate staff contacted me. They explained that a woman was at the gate that was almost hit by a wake board boat. I asked if there was any injuries. My staff said no. 

I responded to the gate and made contact with two females.  One person said that she was on a paddle board near Rockport Estates when a wake boarding boat almost hit her. She went on to explain that the wakeboard boat ran over her board causing damage. She did not have any injuries and was wearing a lifejacket at the time. She said that the driver of the wakeboard boat stopped and asked if everyone was okay. They exchanged information on shore. She said that she wanted me to talk to the driver to explain the law about getting too close to other people on the water. I asked if she would be willing to sign a citation or felt the need for me to issue a citation. She explained that all she wanted was for him to cover the damage to the standup paddle board. 

I followed her over to the pull off to take photos of the damage. I noted that there was several cracks in the board along the side and near the back of the board. I also saw that the rubber pad was discolored. Through my training this discoloration is from when the wake boarding boat crossed over the board. Photos were taken of the board and attached to the report. 

Once I completed my investigation I asked her again if she wanted me to issue any citations. She said no, but wanted me to confirm the boat owners information if I did make contact with him. 

I then got on our patrol boat and located the vessel that was involved with the accident. The driver did confess to coming too close to the standup paddle boarder. I explained the laws that he broke and that the female did not want to press charges. I did confirm his phone number and made sure that he would pay for the damages to the standup paddle boarder. 

Once finished I cleared the scene. 

CONCLUSION
SUPer saw the vessel coming towards her and made several attempts to alert the operator of the vessel. She did jump off the standup paddle prior to the accident. Operator2 did not see her and struck the paddle board. I believe that operator2 failed to keep a proper look out while operating his vessel and was at fault for the accident. 

End of Report.


BARDID: UT-2017-0042
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-08-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Bear Lake
NearestCityorTown: Laketown
County: Rich
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
When I arrived on scene, I talked to Subject who told me her daughter had been riding the PWC. They were unaware of any damage when they returned the PWC and daughter had left the park. The PWC had been returned around 1230 hours. I was called at 1604 hours. Within my investigation, I was unable to determine the cause of the damage. I finished my investigation at 1634 hours.


BARDID: UT-2017-0044
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-09-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:18:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Willard Bay
NearestCityorTown: Willard
County: Box Elder
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
I received a call from dispatch regarding a sailboat that had hit the rocks with no injuries.  I called subject and talked with him and he said that they were sailing and the wind came up and was pushing them towards the north end rocks/dike.  SUBJECT said that their backup motor ran out of gas and they were not able to keep off the rocks. 

I responded and found SUBJECT on the boat and SUBJECT2 on the dike.  The stern of the boat was up to the rocks with the bow facing out at a slight angle.  I told SUBJECT that I would throw him a rope and that I wanted him to hook it on the eye of the vessel.  He started to try and throw me their type IV PFD and I told him to put that down and that I would throw him a rope.  SUBJECT was able to get the rope hooked to the eye of the vessel and I pulled the boat off the rocks and into the North Marina.  I told SUBJECT2 that she would be picked up from land and she began walking East on the dike.  I got the boat to the north marina boat ramp and tied it off to the docks leaving SUBJECT with the boat.  I then went and picked up SUBJECT2 and gave her a ride back to get their truck.  I then followed up at the boat ramp and got the registration and insurance information from them.


BARDID: UT-2017-0045
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-09-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Willard Bay
NearestCityorTown: Willard City
County: Box Elder
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On September 4, 2017 about 17:00 hours on Willard Bay Reservoir, Middle, Box Elder County, UT, Vessel 1 was traveling Northbound with 7 occupants. According to the occupants Vessel one was traveling about 10-15 miles per hour. An occupant tried to stand up and lost her balance. She planted her hand inside the boat and heard a crack. 

About 17:23 hours victim contacted me and said she might have broken her wrist. I contacted medical to meet me at the North Marina boat ramp to check her out. A cold compress was provided to her. She was cleared and refused to be transported. She was going to be taken by personal vehicle. I took the report and cleared the incident about 18:31 hours.


BARDID: UT-2017-0046
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-09-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Willard Bay
NearestCityorTown: Willard City
County: Box Elder
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On September 4, 2017  about 13:00 hours vessel was traveling Westbound while towing someone on Kneeboard. The location was Willard Bay Reservoir, Freeway Bay, Box Elder County, UT.  The Kneeboard struck victim in forehead causing a laceration. He was transported by personal vehicle McKay Dee for stitches.


BARDID: UT-2017-0047
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-08-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:55:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Strawberry Reservoir
NearestCityorTown: Heber
County: Wasatch
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentEvent3: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel Directions Before Accident-
Vessel 1 was traveling south, on plane, in a 680 foot wide channel with a second unknown boat traveling at the same speed and direction. The channel intersected with a main channel know as "the narrows" . The intersection is commonly referred to as the "T". A ski boat was stopped in the middle of the channel at the t-intersection. Vessel 1 passed on the right of the stopped boat and began making a left turn. Vessel 2 was traveling west, on plane, in the main channel of the narrows and made a right turn to the north into the t-intersection. Both operators identified the presence of all the boats in the area, and stated that they each seen the other boats in the waterway in the crowded channel intersection.  

Collision-
Each boat operator stated said they didn't see the other boat right before the collision, and that there was no time to take action to avoid the collision. Vessel 1 was turning left just before the collision. Vessel 2 was completing a right turn just before the collision. Operator of Vessel 1 stated the only action he could take was to continue his left turn and turn harder into the turn; he stated he did not adjust his speed. This hard left turn while making a left turn caused the boat to make a partial u-turn, so the bow was facing more of a north east direction. Operator of Vessel 2 stated the only action he could take just before the accident was to turn harder right, he stated he throttled down. The actions of both boat operators caused the boats to collide while on plane. Both boats collided with both bows essentially facing the same direction, so that the starboard side of Vessel 1 and the port side of Vessel 2 collided. Witness/operator statements and vessel damage match confirm this side by side high speed collision.  

After Accident-  
Witness, responded to check on each boat after the collision, checking with Vessel 2 first. Operator of Vessel 2 stated they were okay, but quickly left to return to the Solider Creek boat ramp where they had launched, to seek medical aid for injured 11 year old passenger. Vessel 1 was beginning to sink and inoperable. 

Witness, secured a tow line to the bow of Vessel 1 and towed the boat into Strawberry Bay Marina. Responding Ranger's encountered Vessel 1 as it was towed into the dock, where it partially submerged as it sank on the boat ramp at the water line. Vessel 2 was contacted by Ranger's after having been loaded on the trailer at Solider Creek ramp; injured boat passengers were transported to Heber Valley Hospital by personal vehicle; then injured 11 year old boy was transported by ambulance to Primary Children's Hospital. The boy's injuries included facial fractures and a concussion from being thrown from his seat and into the boat interior near the cabin door and driver console. His mother sustained a broken rib after landing on objects in the boat after being thrown from her seat during the collision.

Investigation-  
Witness statements, operator statements, and vessel damage were investigated and confirm the high speed side to side collision outlined above. Diagrams from operators and witnesses are all complimentary. The Officer's Diagram shows a clearer picture of the accident events and approximate collision positions. Both operators were cited for the accident. Operator of Vessel 2 was cited for "Failure to yield right of way when crossing" as his boat was the give way boat and should have yielded to the boat on his right in a crossing situation; also cited for no proof of insurance onboard vessel. Operator of Vessel 1 was cited for "Failure to take action in avoiding boating accident" for having identified the crossing situation and continuing his speed and left turn; also cited for no proof of insurance onboard vessel. This high speed collision was easily preventable as both operators had observed the other boat early on. The accident would have been prevented had either operator continued to monitor the other boats in the area by maintaining a proper lookout, and should have slowed their speed or changed course in a meeting situation.


BARDID: UT-2017-0048
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-06-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Powell
NearestCityorTown: Bullfrog
County: Kane
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
INITIAL
On 06/17/2017 at approximately 0925 hours I was contacted for a female with a laceration to her head from a wakeboard hitting her while in the water. I was told they were at the Bullfrog main ramp in which I arrived on scene approximately 0927 hours. I arrived on scene to find a 2005 Four Winns 230 Horizon tied up to the courtesy dock with a female sitting on the dock with others standing around her. The female was conscious when I arrived on scene feeling dizzy and slightly nauseous. She had a laceration approximately 2-4 inches on the back of her head.  There was no active bleeding. 

Victim was wakeboarding when she caught an “edge” on the wake and went face first into the water. Simultaneously, as victim went face first into the water her legs, still attached to the wakeboard, came up behind her, and the wakeboard made contact with the back of her head. I collected as much information from the people on vessel and then cleared the clinic at approximately 1000 hours.


BARDID: UT-2017-0049
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Powell
NearestCityorTown: Bullfrog
County: Kane
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Passenger/Skier Behavior
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Synopsis:
On Saturday June 24, at approximately 1200 hours Ranger and I, responded to a wakeboard accident. The National Parks Service Rangers were first to arrive, they handled medical treatment of the wake boarder. We were asked to handled the accident report and investigation. The wake boarder was taken to the clinic and the operator of the jet ski was not cited. 

Initial call:
On Saturday June 24 at approximately 1200 hours Ranger and myself received a call from dispatch of an injury accident, a jet ski who was pulling a wake boarder that crashed and hit his head on the wakeboard. the National Park Service Rangers were already there treating the wake boarder for head injuries. We responded to do the accident report. 

Investigation:
When we arrived the injured person had already boarded the National Park boat and was heading to the clinic in Bullfrog. We were not able to talk to get a statement from him. According to the operator and the observer the wake boarder's foot came out of the binding after hitting a large wave which caused him to lose control and he fell face down towards the wakeboard. The wakeboard being free from is foot was able to be in front of him when he fell. His head hit the wakeboard has he fell into the water which caused a cut on his head near the ear. 

The injury was an isolated laceration to the left side of his ear. 4cm long laceration. 

No law enforcement action was taken.

End of Report.


BARDID: UT-2017-0050
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-06-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE POWELL
NearestCityorTown: BULLFROG
County: KANE
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
NARRATIVE
On June 17. 2017 I, U.S. Park Ranger was on patrol of the Bullfrog Launch Ramp in fully marked patrol vehicle G623798S. I was flagged down by a male subject. SUBJECT asked me if the Bullfrog Clinic was open because his son needed stitches on his head. SUBJECT told me that as he was operating his boat in Bullfrog Bay (white and black 2003 Centurion) while his son was wakeboarding. OPERATOR told me that VICTIM was down in the water and OPERATOR was maneuvering the boat to pick up VICTIM. OPERATOR told me that as he maneuvered the boat, the wakeboard skeg struck VICTIM in the head causing a minor laceration. OPERATOR told me that he and his wife controlled VICTIM’s bleeding. The family told me VICTIM did not lose consciousness. I called out Bullfrog Clinic staff and assisted the SUBJECT family in loading their belongings and driving to the Bullfrog Clinic.


BARDID: UT-2017-0052
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-09-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:24:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Bear Lake
NearestCityorTown: Garden City
County: Rich
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Overloading
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
INITIAL NOTIFICATION
At about 1230 hours, a boater notified me on the marine band radio channel of a PWC towing a person into the marina as they were hanging onto the PWC. The reporting boater was concerned about asphyxiation for the person being towed. 

RESPONSE
I responded by boat to the area and searched for the PWC/person being towed. After a few minutes, I noticed a PWC stopped in the water about 200 yards northeast of the marina so I made contact and found it was likely the PWC reported. There was a male attempting to re-board the PWC from the rear but he was struggling to reach the seat and partially laying on the rear of the PWC in apparent exhaustion.

ASSISTANCE OFFERED
I brought the patrol boat along side the PWC and offered VICTIM the rail of the patrol boat to help stabilize and pull himself up as I held the PWC by it's handle bars. The US Coast Guard Auxiliary arrived at our location and offered to help as VICTIM was pulling himself up onto the seat. Once VICTIM was on the seat, the rear of PWC began to sink and pull away from the patrol boat. As the boats pulled away from each other, VICTIM kept hanging onto the patrol boat rail and subsequently fell back into the water.


As VICTIM fell back into the water, he continued hanging onto the patrol boat with his left hand. The US Coast Guard Auxiliary made their built-in ladder ready and had VICTIM swim to it and board their boat. After VICTIM was on the USCG Auxiliary boat he mentioned that he was unable to use/lift his left arm. I offered to have medical units/EMTs respond to help but VICTIM denied medical assistance. VICTIM said he would find somewhere to get it checked out. We then discussed local options for medical facilities and I gathered some information for report. The operator of the PWC was VICTIM's wife and I believe there was also another female as a passenger on the PWC. The other female was his wife’s daughter. Once VICTIM was on the USCG Auxiliary boat, the two females on the PWC started driving toward the marina to meet with VICTIM on shore.

CONCLUSION
VICTIM concluded that he must have injured his left shoulder when he fell back into the water still hanging onto the patrol boat. The USCG Auxiliary transported VICTIM to the marina pump-out dock where he off-boarded and thanked all for the help.

FOLLOW-UP
Later in the evening of day of incident, I called VICTIM to see if he was able to get checked out at a medical facility. He said he was still planning to get checked out further. I gathered additional information needed for report.

On 9/7/2017, I called VICTIM to get information for the female passenger. He gave it to me and I also found he just returned from an appointment where he learned he will need surgery for the injury.


BARDID: UT-2017-0053
State: UT
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2017-09-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Powell
County: Kane
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Storm
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent3: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
AccidentCause2: Weather
AccidentCause3: Improper loading
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
SYNOPSIS:
Responded to medical emergency call for service near Gunsight Butte for amputated arm on adult female.  We located the party on a houseboat that had capsized onto its side and then self righted. Assisted NPS Rangers with treatment/transportation/coordination with Classic Lifeguard for care of amputee. Amputee was flown to Dixie Hospital in St. George. Two more patients were transported by NPS vessel to receive treatment at Page Hospital. I conducted the on scene vessel accident investigation and then transported 9 individuals from the houseboat to the Antelope Point Marina.

INITIAL CALL:
At approximately 1330 hours on 9/14/17 I was in NPS Ranger office at Wahweap. A micro burst storm event was moving through the Wahweap area bringing strong winds and rain. Additional NPS Rangers had just been dispatched to a call for a houseboat that had reportedly capsized on its side near the sand king area across Wahweap Bay.  NPS dispatch then announced another emergency call for an adult female who had her arm amputated during a houseboat capsizing near Gunsight Butte. I began responding to my patrol vessel to take NPS Rangers with me to respond to that call.

INVESTIGATION:
I then began my investigation of the vessel accident that resulted in the injuries and substantial damage to the houseboat, as well as the capsizing of another run about vessel. The vessel owner had left with the NPS vessel and his injured wife. I surveyed the scene and the damage to the houseboat. I found that there was another vessel capsized behind the houseboat that had apparently been tied/moored to the houseboat when the accident occurred. I took photos of the damage as I worked through the accident scene.

As we were trying to wrap up the investigation as soon as possible, so we could transport the rest of the group back (some of whom were wet and cold with minor injuries) to Antelope Point Marina, I only had one person who had been on the vessel when the accident occurred fill out a witness statement as all the people would have a similar account of the accident events. While witness filled out a witness statement I spoke with multiple other occupants of the vessel about the accident. I also located a broken metal anchor line cable and a location where another buried anchor had pulled out of the ground during the accident and took photos of those.

CONCLUSIONS:
At approximately 1330 hours on 9/14/17, a very strong micro burst storm moved into the area. Winds were reported around 60 miles per hour, likely gusting higher. The party (13 persons) were on board their houseboat when the storm hit the Padre Cyn area while one member of the group had gotten on a PWC to go out and look at the storm. Different witnesses reported that when the strongest part of the storm hit, that nearly all 13 of them were up on the second story eating or finishing lunch. They stated the storm seemed like a tornado as it strengthened. The houseboat broke a medal anchor line on the port side and pulled another anchor out of the ground on the port side, most likely when a strong gust of wind pushed on the port side of the vessel.

With the port side of the houseboat free from its anchors, the vessel rapidly spun in the wind slamming the starboard side of the vessel against the shoreline. With the velocity of the vessel and the continued winds pushing on the large surface area of the side of the vessel as well as having the weight of so many people on the upper deck of the boat, the vessel capsized onto its starboard side against the rocky/boulder strewn shoreline. Witnesses stated it stayed on its side for likely less than one minute before the vessel righted itself. During the violent capsizing event all the passengers were likely thrown to the starboard side of the vessel, as well as furniture and other debris on the vessel itself. Several of the passengers were thrown out of the vessel.


BARDID: UT-2017-0054
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-06-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE POWELL
NearestCityorTown: PAGE
County: KANE
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
On 06/08/2017 while patrol within Glen Canyon NRA I was notified by park dispatch that a party involved in a vessel accident on 06/07/2017 was interested in filing a report. When contacted via cell phone, OPERATOR1 stated in substance, he and his son were on a rented jet ski heading into gunsight bay when they encountered a large wake. OPERATOR1 altered his course, performing a 90 degree turn to his left hand side and was struck by another jet ski. OPERATOR2's jet ski sustained severe deep gouges into the fiberglass hull. As a result of the collision, the passenger of OPERATOR1's jet ski received a small laceration to his knee. OPERATOR1 transported his passenger to page ER where the passenger received several stitches and was released shortly afteoperator1 and OPERATOR2 are part of the same party. I spoke with both operator1 and OPERATOR2 on the phone, both denied needing any further medical attention.


BARDID: UT-2017-0055
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-06-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:10:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE POWELL
NearestCityorTown: PAGE
County: KANE
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On June 12, 2017 at approximately 1410 hours while on duty as a Law Enforcement Officer within Glen Canyon NRA within the District of Utah. I arrived on scene of houseboat "N2 Mischief" taking on water in the rear engine compartments. The houseboat was temporarily moored to the Warm Creek floating restroom and boat pump out. The weather on this particular day was clear with high winds over 25 MPH, and water conditions were rough at 2'-6' waves.

I met with "N2 Mischief's" owner on scene. OWNER told me that he and the others in his group had been staying at a beach in Warm Creek Bay which they had been anchored at for the past few days. OWNER stated that the wind caused his "tie downs" to come loose. OWNER stated that he attempted to operate the houseboat away from shore as the tie downs became loose. OWNER stated that the houseboat lost power and "became a sail and ran into rocks". OWNER stated that the port stern of the houseboat struck and he believed that the "seal" for the engine compartment was damaged causing it to fill entirely with water.

OWNER stated that he and the others in the group used their ski boat to tow the houseboat to a temporary mooring place, at the Warm Creek floating restroom, to avoid more damage. I observed that all three engine compartments were full of water when I arrived on scene. The rear swim plate form at the vessel's stern was submerged approximately 6-8 inches. The houseboat was not taking on any additional water and had stopped at the engine compartments. I gathered all of OWNER's contact information, photographs, and a witness statement from OWNER.

OWNER did not have his United States Coast Guard Registration or proof of insurance on board and stated that he would email me the information. A subject emailed me the registration and insurance for the vessel on June 19, 2017. OWNER was in direct contact with Executive Services to have the boat salvaged. I cleared the scene after insuring Executive Services was in route and that OWNER and his group had a safe means to return to Wahweap (in their ski boat). I passed Executive Services, who were in route the opposite direction into Warm Creek Bay, in the Castle Rock Cut as I returned to Wahweap.


BARDID: UT-2017-0056
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-09-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Powell
County: Kane
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Storm
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
AccidentCause2: Weather
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
SYNOPSIS:

While following up on multiple vessel accidents on 9/14/17 due to a strong storm that moved through the area I located Houseboat Summer Star laying on its port side on the beach near the Sand King. I spoke with the owner and collected information for the boat accident report. The owner’s wife was transported to the Page hospital and received 6 staples for a laceration on her head from the accident as well as 12 stitches on a laceration on a foot.

INITIAL CALL:

At approximately 1330 hours on 9/14/17 I overheard NPS Ranger responding to what would be the first of many calls for service during a strong microburst storm. They were looking for a capsized houseboat across Wahweap Bay from the marina, possibly near the Sand King area. I am unsure if they ever located this vessel or spoke to the occupants.

On 9/15/17 I responded to the area looking for a capsized houseboat knowing that none of the responding officers the day before had time to take accident reports. I located the capsized Summer Star at approximately 1130 hours. I spoke with the owner and had him fill out a witness statement.  While he filled out the statement I surveyed the accident scene taking pictures as I went.  The houseboat was still laying on its port side and I could not safely gain access to the interior of the vessel to survey the damage further.  I located where two anchors had been pulled out of the ground on the vessels starboard side and photographed that as well.

I discovered there had been 19 people on the vessel at the time of the accident.  

Owner informed me his wife had been struck in the head by a trash compactor during the capsizing and that they had taken her to the Page Hospital where she received 6 staples for the laceration.  She also had a laceration on her left foot that received 12 stitches.  He stated there were some bumps and bruises on other passengers but nothing requiring medical attention.  

Owner stated that the wind had not only pulled up the anchors  but he had also been trying to use the motors to keep the boat straight on shore but was unable to due to the wind strength.  The strength of the wind was just too much for the anchors to hold and when the vessel turned sideways to the beach with likely great force it turned over on the sandy beach on its port side.  Owner stated he had tow service people coming to help turn it back over.

I was unable to survey the majority of the damage since the most damaged side of the vessel was on the beach and I could not enter the houseboat safely with it on its side.  I expect significant damage to the port side of the vessel and to the interior of the vessel from large items falling.

I gave Owner my contact information for the report and cleared the scene at approximately 1200 hours.

VOLUNTARY WITNESS STATEMENT: 
Extreme winds blew houseboat sideways against the beach. Our efforts to keep it straight with engine power were futile. 19 total people were on the boat and got out with bumps and bruises. My wife suffered the most injuries with the trash compacter to the head (6 staples, and also a cut on her left foot, andreceived 12 stitches. Wind pulled all the anchors out and boat was blown down the beach 30 feet.


BARDID: UT-2017-0057
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-08-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Willard Bay
NearestCityorTown: Willard
County: Box Elder
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
On August 9, 2017 about 19:30 hours Vessel 1 was traveling Eastbound towards Eagle Beach on Willard Bay Reservoir, Box Elder, UT. Vessel 1 was towing two occupants on a tube. Vessel 1 hit a wake from another unknown vessel. The force of wake caused the occupants of the tube to fall in the water. One of the occupants had a neck injury.  She was transported to a hospital. Injury was a strained neck muscle.


BARDID: UT-2017-0058
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:04:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: PINEVIEW
NearestCityorTown: HUNTSVILLE
County: WEBER
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Other
OtherAccidentEvent: person struck by vsl debris
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: poor maintenance
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
VOLUNTARY WITNESS STATEMENT: 
Subject stated that she was standing next to victim when the cuddy hatch broke off missing her, hitting victim in the head.

Cuddy cabin door broke off while boat was under power. Door flew to back and hit passenger in the head.


BARDID: UT-2017-0060
State: UT
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2017-07-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:52:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE POWELL
NearestCityorTown: PAGE
County: KANE
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
On 07/13/2017 at approximately 12:52PM, while on patrol within the boundaries of Glen Canyon NRA I was dispatched to a capsized vessel near buoy 28. I arrived on scene and observed a fully submerged capsized vessel. I identified the owner by word of mouth, who was on a second vessel in close proximity. OWNER stated in substance that the vessel was unoccupied, being towed on a long line off a houseboat (Bay of Dreams) when the bow was overtaken and submerged by a large wake, ultimately causing the vessel to capsize. All registration and admin documents were on board the vessel and un-obtainable. 
Park Dispatch and OWNER both made contact with Executive Services on 07/13/2017 and relayed all relevant information in regards to the submerged vessel.
On 07/20/2017 I was notified by OWNER that he had been in contact with Executive Services on a daily basis since the accident. OWNER stated his vessel had yet to be retrieved from Lake Powell.


BARDID: UT-2017-0061
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-09-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 08:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE POWELL
NearestCityorTown: BIG WATER
County: KANE
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
A 54 year old patient was seen at Dangling Rope Marina complaining of lower back pain. The vessel on which the patient was a passenger hit an Aramark tour boat wake and was propelled upward about 3' and then fell onto his bottom on the deck of the boat. The patient was treated and transported by Classic Medical to Flagstaff.


BARDID: UT-2017-0063
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-08-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:12:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: PINEVIEW
NearestCityorTown: HUNTSVILLE
County: WEBER
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentCause3: Excessive speed
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 and Vessel 2 were both in the main channel area of Pineview Reservoir, just south of the Spring Cove area. Vessel 1 was under power and on plane. Vessel 2 was stationary in the water and in the process of switching out water skiers. Driver of Vessel 1 estimated him going approximately 30 miles an hour, and not paying attention to the water and what was in front of him. Operator of Vessel 1 was looking down at the instrument gauges and listening to the engine of the boat as it had just gone through some maintenance.
Operator of Vessel 2 advised that they were stationary in the water, they had skiers out of the water and in the vessel. Operator advised the orange flag was properly displayed and they watched as the other boat was going to hit them. Operator 2 advised his occupants of the boat to get out as the other boat was going to hit them. Most occupants jumped out of the boat and only one occupant sustained injuries.
Vessel 1 struck Vessel 2 with the bow. Vessel 2 was hit about the middle of the port side. Vessel 1 traveled up and through Vessel 2 passing all the way through the boat exiting Vessel 2 on the starboard side. Vessel 1 circled back around and made contact with the occupants of Vessel 2. Vessel 1 loaded the occupants onto their boat, along with another boater in the area that responded and rendered aid. The third boat took one patient with minor injuries to their foot to the Port Ramp dock for medical attention. Vessel 1 towed Vessel 2 to the Port Ramp. No occupants of Vessel 1 were injured; the driver of Vessel 1 was cited for Speed and Proximity and Fail to Maintain Lookout.


BARDID: UT-2017-0065
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-08-31 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE POWELL
County: KANE
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person struck by vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
At 1736 hours, on August 31, 2017 while on duty with Glen Canyon NRA, Rangers received a report from park dispatch of a 13 year old male who had sustained a propeller cut to his leg while boating near Buoy 17 (Kane County, Utah). Classic Air Medical.

On September 10, 2017, I conducted a telephonic interview with the vessel owner and operator. Operator1 stated that two juvenile passengers were aboard his PWC, v2.  Both juveniles jumped off the PWC, which was adrift at the time, and began swimming in the water, with the stated intention of climbing aboard ski vessel. OPERATOR1, who was operating the vessel at the time, backed up approximately 40 feet to pick up the swimming juveniles. OPERATOR1 stated that he failed to stop in time and drove over the 13 year old male, who resurfaced off the bow of the ski vessel. All involved climbed aboard the ski vessel and proceeded to Antelope Point Marina.

OPERATOR1's statement was consistent with the description of events given at the scene on August 31, 2017 by both. The 13 year olds injuries were consistent with a propeller cut.


BARDID: UT-2017-0067
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE POWELL
NearestCityorTown: BULLFROG, UTAH
County: KANE
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
SUMMARY
On 07/02/2017 at approximately 1115 hours I, US Park Ranger L, was called by dispatch to a hit and run vessel accident at the Bullfrog main ramp. I was informed of the vessel accident by dispatch; however I had heard the radio communications between one of our AIS Rangers and Dispatch for further information. It was stated over the radio that the houseboat (a 1990 RHR Houseboat named Jest-4-Fun) had struck a ski boat (a 2005 Four Winns Horizon 230) and the houseboat was seen leaving the scene of the accident. It was later found out that the houseboat dropped off a party member for information exchange and was moving away from the main ramp to avoid hitting anyone else. The house boat claimed to have had an engine failure just prior to the vessel collision.

INITIAL
On 07/02/2017 at approximately 1115 hours I was dispatched to a vessel accident at the Bullfrog main ramp. No injuries were reported. I arrived on scene at approximately 1120 hours to find the vessel being put on the truck and trailer at the Bullfrog main ramp by the owner. I spoke with OPERATOR1 briefly and told him to move the damaged vessel on its trailer up to the prep lanes above the main ramp. At this time I noticed the back left side of the vessel had sustained a large amount of damage where fiberglass was punctured and indented from being struck by another vessel. I followed OPERATOR1 up the launch ramp and regained contact to begin the vessel accident report. While I was taking the vessel accident report from OPERATOR1, US Park Ranger boated over from Halls Crossing to assist in the vessel accident. Ranger met with houseboat Jest-4-Fun,at the Bullfrog fuel dock to gather vessel information and take pictures of any damage.

INVESTIGATION
I spoke with OPERATOR1 and asked him to explain to me what exactly happened. OPERATOR1 said that the houseboat Jest-4-Fun was coming into the courtesy dock at the Bullfrog main ramp where OPERATOR1 had just put his boat in the water. 

OPERATOR1 continued by saying the houseboat came into the courtesy dock and wasn't able to stop short of hitting his boat. The houseboat has a metal push bumper extended around the bow of the boat which is what made contact with OPERATOR1's ski boat. OPERATOR1 stated that the houseboat immediately backed out and began leaving the Bullfrog main ramp. As he and his family thought the houseboat was leaving the scene, they gathered information from other bystanders for witness statements and gathered as much vessel descriptors for the houseboat as they could. Once I got a clear understanding of what happened according to OPERATOR1, I collected all needed information for the vessel accident report, and took pictures of all the damage to vessel. I gave OPERATOR1 my business card with information pertaining to the vessel accident and how to obtain a copy of it for insurance purposes. Before clearing the main ramp I spoke with another gentleman that was part of the houseboat Jest-4-Fun's party. The male stayed behind in good faith to exchange information if needed and to let everyone know that the houseboat and operator were not leaving the scene to run, but to clear out so they would not hit any other vessels due to engine failure. I cleared the main ramp at approximately 1210 hours.

At approximately 1215 hours I arrived at the Bullfrog fuel dock to follow up with Ranger and the operator of vessel Jest-4-Fun. Ramger had obtained all needed information, pictures, and a vessel safety inspection prior to my arrival. I continue over to the houseboat operator. I spoke with operator2 about how our process works for vessel accidents and gave him my business card with information for the vessel accident and how to obtain a copy of it for insurance purposes. operator2 inquired about any injuries for the other party in which I informed him there were none. I cleared the BF fuel docks and the vessel accident at approximately 1230 hours.


BARDID: UT-2017-0072
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE POWELL
NearestCityorTown: BULLFROG
County: KANE
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
SUMMARY:
On 07/01/2017 at approximately 1015 hours I, US Park Ranger, received a call from dispatch about a vessel accident that occurred at the Bullfrog Covered Slips marina. Vessel (SUM-R-RAIN) was backing out of its slip and began to turn and head out onto the lake. When making its turn, it came in contact with vessel (Forgotten Canyon) and did damage to the slide and stern railing.

INITIAL:
On 07/01/2017 I contacted houseboat Forgotten Canyon's owner in regards to being struck by houseboat SUM-R-RAIN. OPERATOR1 was aboard his vessel Forgotten Canyon in his slip located at the Bullfrog Covered Slips Marina when SUM-R-RAIN was leaving the slips and made contact with Forgotten Canyon's slide. Houseboat SUM-R-RAIN continued to leave the marina while a member of their party on a runabout vessel stopped to speak with OPERATOR1. Initially, I was told that information was going to be exchanged and that the party on SUM-R-RAIN was going to pay for the damage. An accident report and photos were taken; however, the report was incomplete due to no information from houseboat SUM-R-RAIN. I was in contact with OPERATOR1 and it was established that information was exchanged.

On 09/08/2017 I was contacted again by the president of SUM-R-RAIN asking for a copy of the report. I was also contacted by OPERATOR1 asking for a report as well. President was informed that the operator at the time of the accident, had never returned my phone calls for information regarding the accident. I informed President that OPERATOR2 needed to get me additional information by email and phone. On 9/12/2017 all needed information was collected.

INVESTIGATION:
All information has now been collected as of 09-12-2017 in regards to this vessel accident. House boat owners of SUM-R-RAIN are seeking estimates for damage repairs. They are requesting copies of the report due to high cost in repairs. I spoke with OPERATOR2 for the first time on 09-12-2017 in regards to what happened. OPERATOR2 explained that he is a new boater and it was his first time backing the 66 foot houseboat out of the slip. Aboard the vessel were 6 other people who also had very little knowledge of boating. 

OPERATOR2 explained that the passengers assisting him with backing out and telling him how much room he had did not give him adequate time to correct. OPERATOR2 stated that he didn't even know he hit vessel Forgotten Canyon and that is why he continued out of the marina. The SUM-R-RAIN party member aboard the runabout boat that stopped to speak with OPERATOR1 told OPERATOR2 about the accident. When OPERATOR2 and his party returned to the slip a few days later OPERATOR1 had already left the area. No contact between OPERATOR1 and OPERATOR2 took place.


BARDID: UT-2017-0073
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-09-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:50:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE POWELL
NearestCityorTown: BIG WATER
County: KANE
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Alcohol
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
While on water patrol on 09/16/2017 at approximately 1557 hours (MST), just off Lone Rock Beach on Lake Powell, Ranger and I observed a personal watercraft (PWC) moving in circles near two swimmers in the water. As we moved our NPS vessel closer, it appeared that the two swimmers had been ejected from the jet ski. Operator repeatedly swam toward the circling jet ski attempting to stop its motion and/or reboard the vessel. We ordered him to stay away from the vessel, but he did not comply.

At one point, OPERATOR reached the PWC and then lost his grip on it. This caused the PWC to move rapidly toward the PWC's passenger, an 11 year old juvenile female, who was floating in the water nearby. I moved our NPS vessel between the juvenile and the PWC and Ranger reached over and pulled the PWC's lanyard out of the kill switch, stopping the vessel.

The female juvenile was screaming she could not feel her leg. Ranger and I lifted her into our NPS vessel and I began an EMS assessment on her. OPERATOR reached the PWC, which was laying against our vessel and repeatedly attempted to board it. He failed in each instance. Ranger directed him to the aft of our NPS vessel where I had set up the vessel's swim ladder. OPERATOR was able to climb aboard via the ladder. Ranger noted that OPERATOR was unsteady on his feet and he detected the smell of an alcohol-containing beverage on OPERATOR's breath.

The juvenile was complaining of sharp left lower leg pain. I directed Ranger to move slowly toward Lone Rock Beach where the juveniles mother was located. We took the juveniles mother aboard and I treated the juvenile by applying a stirrup splint to her left leg. We transported the juveniles mother, the juvenile patient and OPERATOR to Stateline Launch Ramp where the juvenile and her mother were transported by NPS ambulance to Banner Page Hospital. She was subsequently medically evaluated and released.

OPERATOR stated that while operating the PWC he had "hit a wake" and fell off the PWC. Seated battery SFSTs were conducted on OPERATOR by Ranger. Along with a positive PBT reading, enough clues were obtained during the SFSts that OPERATOR was arrested for BUI. He was subsequently administered a breath alcohol test by Ranger on an intoxilyzer 8000. At 1740 hours, OPERATOR's blood alcohol content was 0.093 g/210L and at 1747 hours was 0.091 g/210L on the second test. OPERATOR was then booked into the Coconino County Detention Facility and cited under:


36 CFR 3.10 (a)(1) BUI
36 CFR 3.8 (b)(9) Reckless operation of a vessel
36 CFR 3.9 (b)(2) Failure to wear a lanyard
36 CFR 3.10 (a)(2) BAC>0.08


BARDID: UT-2017-0075
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-05-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:48:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE POWELL
NearestCityorTown: BULLFROG
County: SAN JUAN
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
I U.S. Park Ranger state that on 28 May 2017 I was dispatched to a houseboat accident in Halls Crossing Marina at approximately 2030 hours. I spoke with a operator2 who was operating house boat Canyon Spirit, a two engine, 2002 70 foot houseboat. OPERATOR2 state that he had been working on the props earlier that day. When he went to dock the houseboat in Halls Crossing Marina one engine was not responding correctly. He stated that it was "backwards" meaning that when in forward one engine was running the vessel forward and one engine was running backward. Witness stated that they heard the engines running at high RPM's as the houseboat appeared to be out of control. OPERATOR2 was trying to compensate the motors in order to dock the vessel to get it repaired. OPERATOR2 was not under the influence of alcohol or any other drugs at the time. When OPERATOR2 made it to a slip to dock he struck another houseboat named Helen J. The Helen J. was unoccupied at the time. The Helen J. vessel had a 17 foot rubber dingy on the rear of the swim deck that was damaged, as well as the 9.9 horse power engine. The Helen J also received damage to the port side railing, ladder to the second deck, and the slide. Overall damage estimated $7000 to $9000 dollars.

Based on my investigation, OPERATOR2 was responsible for the damage to the Helen J vessel on 28 May 2017.


BARDID: UT-2017-0076
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-10-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE POWELL
NearestCityorTown: HALLS CROSSING
County: SAN JUAN
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
DayofWeek: Thursday
RedactedNarrative:
On October 6th, 2017 at approximately 0839 hours, Rangers responded to a complaint of a boat accident that occurred October 5th, 2017 between 1300 hrs and 1700hrs at Halls Crossing Marina. I met the reporting party, who showed me his boat Cold Shiver (2000 white/red 60' Summerset HB UT). 

He stated that the operator of a second houseboat, Paradise Canyon (1999 green/white 72' Sharpe HD) hit his boat yesterday. 

After speaking with the operator of Paradise Canyon, operator2, he stated that he had hit Cold Shiver October 5th. He said one of the engines wasn't operating making maneuvering difficult while attempting to dock. Both parties exchanged information. Based on my investigation, I determine that operator2 is 100% at fault. Vessel1 was securely docked in his designated location making evasion by him improbable. Vessel2 was the only operating vessel so he is responsible to avoid objects.

Photo log of damages to Cold Shiver (vessel 1) and Paradise Canyon (vessel 2) will be attached.


BARDID: UT-2017-0077
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-09-19 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE POWELL
NearestCityorTown: BULLFROG
County: SAN JUAN
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
I was on patrol near buoy 107 on fully marked National Park Service Vessel 290. At approximately 1404 we received a call of a sinking vessel near buoy 106. We arrived at approximately 1412 and found a sinking ski boat being towed by a houseboat. 

OPERATOR was in the water securing a line to the bow of the sinking boat. I told OPERATOR to swim to my vessel and get in. Once OPERATOR was in my vessel he told me they were towing the boat with the houseboat when it started to take on water. OPERATOR told me the waves were crashing over the ski boat and it started to sinking. The bow of the boat was under water up to the stern ski post.

OPERATOR's bilge pump was operational. I secured the ski boat to my vessel and we were able to side tow it to the shore. By the time the ski boat got to shore the bilge pump had stopped working. There was water damage throughout the entire ski boat. OPERATOR told me his electric was not working and does not know if it could possibly be a dead battery. Aramark responded and pumped the vessel out and towed it to Bullfrog Main Ramp.


BARDID: UT-2017-0078
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-07-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:30:00
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE POWELL
NearestCityorTown: HALLS CROSSING
County: SAN JUAN
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Ignition of spilled fuel or vapor
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
SUMMARY
On the evening of July 12, 2017 a family and friends group traveled from various cities in Colorado for a houseboat trip to Lake Powell. All the individuals were located on houseboat Summer Paradise or in the immediate vicinity of the houseboat beached in Crystal Springs Canyon. Operator was working on the generator of the houseboat because it stalled or quit working prior to the explosion at the rear of the houseboat. At the time of the explosion, Operator was at the helm of the vessel trying to start the generator and running the blowers. 

DECEASED VICTIM was found in the starboard (right) engine bay of the houseboat Summer Paradise with severe head trauma. DECEASED VICTIM was found with a pulse and gasping breaths by associated party members. She was moved from the starboard engine bay to the swim deck on the back of the houseboat where she died. VICTIM1 was found in the port (left) engine bay unconscious with severe trauma and burns. VICTIM4 was found in the vicinity of the explosion with severe burns to his legs. VICTIM3 was put on the bed in the rear portion of the houseboat with head trauma, broken bones, and burns. VICTIM2 was seated in a chair in the front portion of the cabin of the houseboat with burns to his legs, arms, and face. 


LOCATION/ENVIRONMENT
It was night time, clear skies with no moonlight, a light breeze calm water with air temperature approximately 80 degrees and water temperature approximately 76 degrees. 

UT State Fire Marshall states "the cause of this explosion is undetermined and will require further evaluation of the fuel systems to identify the source of fuel/air mixture in the bilge area, as well as the generator ignition system to determine the likely source of ignition.


BARDID: UT-2017-0079
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2017-08-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:48:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: PINEVIEW RESERVOIR
NearestCityorTown: EDEN
County: WEBER
WaterConditions: Unknown
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Unknown
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
On 8/22/17 at approximately 1348 hrs on Pineview Reservoir, I was dispatched to an unconscious tuber. Dispatch advised that the boat was heading to Port Ramp with the patient.
Medical
I responded to Port Ramp and made contact with the boat and driver. Medical had already arrived and was attending to the patient. I spoke with subject1 who stated that he, Victim and another kid were being pulled on a tube when it flipped over. Subject1 stated that he noticed Victim face down floating in the water and he had to roll her over so she could breath. Subject1 said that Victim appeared to have been knocked unconscious when she hit the water, but wasn't sure what caused it.
Victim was transported to McKay Dee Hospital and released a short time later with a concussion. Sgt. also responded to the hospital to meet with Victim and her parents before her release.
Victim was knocked unconscious while tubing behind a boat. Victim was transported to the hospital and released a short time later. A Utah State Parks Boating Accident Report will also be filled out and submitted in relations to this case.


BARDID: UT-2018-0002
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-06-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:20:00
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
NameOfBodyOfWater: BEAR LAKE
NearestCityorTown: LAKETOWN
County: RICH
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person departed vessel
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
Synopsis
Passenger left vessel to step onto dock. Passenger missed stepping onto the dock, fell, and struck his head on the edge of the dock.

Narrative
On June 4, 2018 at/or near 11:20 hours, based upon verbal interviews with SUBJECT1 and SUBJECT2, I determined the following:

SUBJECT1 was operating the vessel, moving from north to south, approaching the Rainbow Cove ramp dock at an idle speed, so as to position the boat perpendicular to the end of the ramp dock.

VICTIM was standing on the swim platform, port side, preparing to exit boat to step onto the ramp dock.

SUBJECT1 was stated she was unsure of how close the vessel was to the dock because the operator position was on the starboard side of the vessel and she could not see over the port structure of the vessel.

VICTIM exited the vessel, unable to step securely onto the ramp dock.

VICTIM fell from the boat into the water, hitting his head on the edge of the dock. SUBJECT1 stated she did not actually see VICTIM'S head strike the dock, but saw him fall from the boat into the water.

SUBJECT1 stated she saw VICTIM stand, flail his arms, and then collapsed back, face down into the water. SUBJECT1 screamed for help as she was still in the boat, moving it slowly to the south.

SUBJECT2 was nearby and heard the splash of VICTIM in the water. He saw VICTIM stand up and then fall back into the water. SUBJECT2 went to the end of the dock, grabbed VICTIM'S back neck of his sweatshirt and tried to pull his face out of the water. SUBJECT2 was unable to turn VICTIM over. SUBJECT2 then got into the water and pulled VICTIM to where the water meets the launch ramp.

In the meantime, SUBJECT1 operated the vessel to the north side of the ramp dock and got out of the boat to help SUBJECT2. SUBJECT2 and SUBJECT1 pulled VICTIM onto the launch ramp, rolled him over onto his back, called 911 and began CPR on VICTIM. The call to 911/Rich County Sherriff's Dispatch was received @ 11:26 hours.

VICTIM was recorded as deceased at @ 11:57 hours.

RCSO report # 18-0451


BARDID: UT-2018-0003
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-04-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Willard Bay
NearestCityorTown: Willard
County: Box Elder
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
LOCATION:

On April 28, 2018 about 13:00 hours Vessel 1 was traveling Southbound. The location was about 100 yards West of the North Marina Inlet, Willard Bay Reservoir, Willard City, UT. 

OCCUPANTS:

4 occupants were on board. 2 of the 4 occupants were being towed on a tube. 

INCIDENT:

While traveling Southbound conditions of the reservoir were choppy. The speed of Vessel 1 was about 15-20 miles per hour according to the occupants. A force of a wake caused tubers to strike heads. They were ejected from the tube and in the water with life jackets on. Tubers were brought into the boat. One started to vomit.

INITIAL CONTACT:

About 13:14 hours Vessel 1 and the occupants signaled me down and said their friend was hurt. I saw tuber looked intoxicated slouching in his seat. He had droopy eyelids. He was conscious, alert, and breathing. When he pulled up he started to vomit. I checked his eyes and did not see unequal pupil size. I called for medical to respond to my location which was at the Ranger dock. I started to check his head for cuts and did not see any.  He vomited a few more times. Medical arrived about 13:19 hours. The other tuber was also checked out but no injuries were seen. 

CONCLUSION:

It was determined tuber needed to be transported to the hospital. He was transported to Brigham City Hospital. I gathered witness statements and photos of the boat.


BARDID: UT-2018-0004
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-04-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:28:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Bear Lake
NearestCityorTown: Garden City
County: Rich
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Weather
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Synopsis:  At 1431 hours I received a phone call from dispatch stating there were four girls on a raft being blown from shore, but it was unclear from where.  I had dispatch call the RP back and get a better location.  At 1436 hours dispatch called me back and told me four nineteen year old girls were in a raft being blown off shore from the Blue Water Beach area  with no life jackets on board.

ON THE WATER RESPONSE:
Two people were able to direct us to the raft that ended up being an overturned paddle boat a mile and a half north of  Blue Water Beach.  There was one girl attempting to swim back to shore in the water a 150 yards south from the paddle boat.  She was waving trying to get our attention, and treading water.  The other three were hanging onto the overturned paddle boat.  We picked up the girl attempting to swim back to shore first and put a blanket on her and sat her down in the cabin of the patrol boat to start warming her up.  I then headed over to the other three girls and Subject1 was able to load two more girls onto our boat and get them blanketed and in the cabin, while I maneuvered for another pick-up for the last girl hanging onto the paddle boat.  The girls had no PFD's on,  just holding onto the paddle boat with all they had left.  We were able to get all four onto the patrol boat, with the cabin heater turned on.  Subject1 assessed the girls and called for the ambulance to meet us at the marina for medical attention. 

BACK AT THE MARINA:
Once we got back to the marina, the ambulance pulled in just as we were docking.  Multiple EMT's came to our boat to assist getting the girls form the boat to the ambulance.  All four girls were transported by ambulance to Logan Regional Hospital for hypothermia.

We went to recover the paddle boat and towed it back to the marina.  Four of the girls boyfriends met us at the marina to take the paddle boat back to Blue Water Beach. 

INVESTIGATION:
According to one of the girls, she stated they found the paddle boat on shore and took it for a little spin when they got pushed by the high winds further and further from shore.

Owner of the rental boat stated the girls took the paddle boat without his permission, because he was at work at the mine in  Wyoming.  He said the paddle boats were not locked down but just sitting on the beach


BARDID: UT-2018-0005
State: UT
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2018-07-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:54:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Bear Lake
NearestCityorTown: Garden City
County: Rich
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Sinking
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
MachineryFailure: Engine
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
INITIAL REPORT
At about 1754 hours Rich County dispatch advised State Park's officers of a disabled vessel with seven people onboard, that may be out of gas north of the state park marina.

RESPONSE
I began responding by land from Rendezvous Beach. I had dispatch check if the US Coast Guard Auxiliary Vessel 316 was still on the water. Dispatch checked and USCG 316 acknowledged stating they would be en-route. I asked dispatch to notify Bear Lake County/Idaho State park officials in Idaho as the vessel was possibly in Idaho. I was told Idaho was not able to respond and asked us to continue with the call at about 1806 hours. I asked another ranger, to meet at the marina for a second boat hand. USCG 316 located VESSEL #1 on Bear Lake at 1813 hours east of Fish Haven in Idaho waters. USCG 316 took VESSEL #1 in tow heading toward the state park marina in Utah. I asked USCG 316 if they still needed me to respond on the water and they told me they did not need more help at the time.

A short time later (at about 1848 hours), USCG 316 advised that the towed vessel seemed to be taking on water. I was asked to again respond to help a short time later. USCG 316 advised that all seven people onboard VESSEL #1 were wearing life jackets and were boarding the USCG vessel. VESSEL #1 started to go under water at 1902 hours.

I responded with another park employee meeting the USCG vessel on scene where VESSEL #1 sank. There were no injuries reported other than reportedly mild hypothermia for which medical attention was denied. We marked VESSEL #1's sinking location on the park vessel's navigation system at about 1910 hours. There was a tube still attached to VESSEL #1 which we left in place while we helped to gather floating debris.  We gathered several additional life jackets, a wakeboard, seat cushions, motor cover, various lines, inflatable devices including tubes and a raft. We turned these items over to the owner of VESSEL #1 at the marina dock. I gathered more report information on land at the marina. I asked what his intentions were for VESSEL #1 and he was unsure at the time but we decided to go ahead and remove the tow tube that was still attached. 

Subject described how they were initially experiencing either mechanical or fuel system problems disabling VESSEL #1. He said the wind storm then descended onto the lake. Subject did not believe they were taking on water until they were under tow by USCG 316 and heading into the large waves. He said they then boarded the USCG vessel.

FOLLOW-UP
On 7/9/2018, I contacted subject again for questions he had and questions I had for the report.  At that time I informed Subject that VESSEL #1 shall be removed by direction of Utah Division of Forestry, Fire and State Lands who manage the lake bed. I also contacted the insurance agent (left message) informing her of who I was, contact numbers and that I needed to be informed of the recovery arrangements made so as to inspect VESSEL #1 upon removal from the lake.


BARDID: UT-2018-0007
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-06-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:07:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Willard Bay
NearestCityorTown: Willard
County: Box Elder
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with floating object
AccidentEvent2: Grounding
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
SYNOPSIS:

A call came through from dispatch about a boat being slammed into the dike from the wind. I responded with other Officers. The boat and occupants were returned to safety. An accident investigation was conducted due to the damage of the boat. 

INITIAL CALL:

While on patrol about 14:07 hours on June 9, 2018 I, Officer, was called to rescue a stranded boat on Willard Bay Reservoir, Box Elder County, UT. the details of the call was wind was slamming a boat into the North West Dike. Some of the occupants were under 5 years of age. 


RESPONSE:

Officer and I responded on our patrol boat to locate the boat. We arrived to the location of the boat about 14:20 hours. I saw two occupants outside of the boat holding onto ropes. The conditions were winds blowing about 12-25 miles per hour. The winds were causing choppy water conditions. The boat was a cabin cruiser and being slammed into the rocks repeatedly. They were instructed to release the lines and place them in the boat. 

A subject was instructed to move towards the bow so we could toss her a tow rope. she had trouble keeping her balance on the rocks and slipped a couple times. Any instruction we tried to give they could not hear due to the wind. Officer responded and we had all the occupants exit the boat to get them to safety. Officer was tossed the tow rope. The boat was successfully attached. We towed the boat safely to the North Marina. Officer gave the occupants a ride back in his patrol vehicle. They were medically checked out. While towing the boat I noticed the bilge pump continually pumping water. IT continued to pump as we docked it at the courtesy dock. 

INVESTIGATION:

The boat was pulled onto the tow trailer. Multiple gouges were seen on the port side below the water line on the boat. One gouge was about 10-15 inches long and water was coming out of it. Cracking and breaking was seen on the port side of the swim deck.  A rope was also around the motor. Photos were taken of the boat. I asked the occupants what had happened. They told me they were drifting and getting ready to go tubing. They thought the tow rope was tied up in the propeller seizing it. Due to the choppy water conditions they were unable to get it out of the prop. The choppy conditions pushed them into the dike continually until Officers arrived.


BARDID: UT-2018-0009
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-04-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Powell
NearestCityorTown: Bullfrog
County: Kane
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
AccidentCause2: Weather
MachineryFailure: Engine
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
Synopsis:

On April 19, 2018 approximately 17:45,Operator1 was attempting to dock his house boat into his assigned dock slip at the executive Aramark docks at Bullfrog Lake Powell. As he got close to the slip his reverse stopped working in his starboard engine and he lost all function in the port side engine. The wind was blowing at an estimated speed of 30-40 miles an hour. He had assistance from Aramark services. With only partial use of the starboard engine he ran into the stern of vessel 2. With no reverse the wind pushed  him into vessel 3. 

Accident:

On April 19, 2018 approximately 17:45 Operator1 was attempting to dock his 70 foot 1995 Sumerset houseboat.The wind started to blow extremely fast and hard when he came in to the marina. He lost power to the port side engine so he called Aramark to assist him in docking. Aramark informed him to dock in an open area on O dock because they were afraid he would not be able to dock in his assigned slip safely. Upon approach to the dock Operator1 lost his reverse power in the starboard engine. He could not reverse which caused him to ram the vessel 2  with his bow. The wind then pushed his stern into vessel 3. He was stuck perpendicular between vessel 2 and 3. Aramark employees and other people around helped him get secured to the dock.  

Investigation:

When I arrived at approximately 18:10  the wind was blowing at an estimated speed of 30-40 miles an hour in an westward direction. I talked to the operator of the vessel Operator1 who showed no signs of impairment. There were several people there helping him to secure his vessel to the dock. Based on my assessment I find that wind and equipment failure are the major contributing factors that caused this accident. He explained to me that he had just launched his houseboat and that it had been off the water all winter being worked on by a mechanic. I asked Operator1 and his wife fill out witness statements and they agreed. Operator1 informed me that he had poor hand writing and asked if his wife could transcribe for him and I agreed. 


End Of Report.


BARDID: UT-2018-0010
State: UT
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2018-04-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:49:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Utah Lake
NearestCityorTown: Goshen
County: Utah
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
AccidentCause3: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Steering
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
SYNOPSIS:

Dispatched to a vessel taking on water and people in the water.  Individuals all made it to shore and were transported by Utah County Sheriff Deputies.  Vessel was found and danger Buoy attached to it.

Vessel was being operated while on a fishing trip.  They were fishing in the Knolls area.  The weather changed, and the wind began to blow,  They decided to head back into Pelican Bay Marina in Saratoga Springs. 

Before submerging:

All Occupants were wearing type 3 PFD.  The swells grew to be an estimated 2-4 ft in size.  The wave action pushed the vessel close to shore, and the skeg of the motor hit the lake bottom causing a Hydraulic bolt to break.  The hydraulics then went through the midsection of the outboard motor just below the cowling.  This caused the motor to be jammed in place and unable to steer in any direction.  The vessel was facing north into the waves.  There were three large batteries towards the bow of the boat used to power a trolling motor.  This added a lot of weight to the bow of the boat. 

Submerging of vessel:

As waves began to crash into the boat over the bow, one person stood up with a seat cushion and moved towards the bow of the boat trying to block some of the water from coming in.  Enough water came into the boat that it began to submerge.  All occupants jumped from the boat and swam to shore.  All safely arrived on shore and were transported by Utah County Deputies to the Saratoga Marina.

Marking of vessel:

I arrived to the area where the vessel was last seen, and found it to still be slightly above water.  A danger buoy was attached to it, and I gathered as many belongings from the vessel as I could.  While doing so my Hand Held Radio came off of my belt, and fell into the vessel.  I carefully got into the submerged vessel to try and find my radio, but could not.  I called in to dispatch to give them last known GPS coordinates for the vessel.  I then returned to Saratoga Marina and met with the owner of the boat.  I gave him all of his property back that I had collected.  I gathered registration information from him, and the names and DOB of all involved.  I asked for insurance information, and he told me that it was insured but he did not have the proof with him.  I told him I would need it for my report and gave him my business card.  I told him to email me proof of insurance, and he said that he would.  Because we were both wet, and the wind was blowing, I ended the contact by giving him the Phone number for Cross Marine to help in retrieving his vessel.  I also told him I would be in contact when we were in better circumstances.

Second Contact:

I set up a time to go and meet with OWNER at his home.  OWNER had been able to locate his vessel, and tow it to shore with a different vessel, and drain it of water, and get it out of the lake and back to his house.  At his home I took several pictures of the vessel, and had OWNER fill out a witness statement.  I also performed a vessel safety inspection on what was left in the vessel.  While I was there OWNER handed me Law Enforcement radio that had fallen into the vessel while I was gathering personal effects out of it. I again inquired of insurance from OWNER and he forwarded an email to me that he had received from the insurance company.  I then left his residence.

Investigation: 

There was no proof of insurance attached to that email OWNER had sent, so I emailed the Insurance agent, and found that OWNER was not covered under the insurance the day the incident occurred, but that the vessel was insured the day following the incident. I wrote another email to OWNER asking him to gather witness statements from the rest of those who had been onboard. I did that on April 16, 2018. As of today (May 5, 2018) I have not heard back from OWNER.

Actions Taken:

As of today, June 29, 2018, I have still yet to receive any further witness statements. I will be closing my investigation into the incident.


BARDID: UT-2018-0013
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-05-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:35:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Powell
NearestCityorTown: Big Water
County: Kane
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Operator stated that while underway, at speed and on plane, the vessel's outdrive struck a submerged rock just south of Padre Butte. The vessel came to a stop and began drifting. I located the vessel and side towed it to Dominguez Butte pumpout, from where it was subsequently towed by a park concessionaire. No injuries to passengers occured.


BARDID: UT-2018-0014
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-05-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE POWELL
NearestCityorTown: NA
County: NA
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
AccidentEvent2: Grounding
AccidentCause1: Other
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentCause3: Restricted vision
OtherAccidentCause: Passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On May 29th 2018, while on vehicle patrol in the Bullfrog District of Glen Canyon National Recreation area I, U.S Park Ranger, along with District Ranger were requested to investigate a possible sunken vessel in Bullfrog Marina due to a vessel fire. We eventually located the vessel, a 24 foot white Bayliner, in Bullfrog dry storage. We made contact with the owner of the vessel. Owner stated that they did not take on any water but they were the vessel that called on Marine 16 for rescue the night before and that morning. Owner stated that he called Glen Canyon dispatch on his phone a few times but lost service while talking to them.

I asked Owner to explain what happened the night before. Owner stated they were moored near the right arm of the Rincon Bay when around 1930 hours his wife by word of mouth, started to cook dinner with an alcohol stove that caught fire.

Wife who was present at Bullfrog Dry Storage, stated that she spilled some of the alcohol fuel into the pan not knowing (unaware) there were slots in the corners of the pan, which allowed the alcohol to leak under the stove onto an icebox and some stored food. When Wife lit the fuel to start cooking she noticed flames flaring out of the side of the stove. She immediately turned off the stove and asked for the fire extinguisher. Owner attempted to use the extinguisher but it did not work. Later it was realized that the gage on the extinguisher was on empty and the extinguisher was not functional. Wife then stated she poured a gallon of milk on the stove to put the flames out. She then sat down on the seat next to the stove and noticed more flames under the stove in the cabinet area. She removed the stove top and saw that the icebox, made out of plastic and styrofoam, was on fire. Wife stated she attempted to use the fire extinguisher with no effect. At this time they started to scoop lake water using a half gallon pitcher and throwing it on the fire. Wife estimated they threw approximately 25 gallons of water on the fire to extinguish it. Wife mentioned that herself, subject1, her mother and her father were in the cabin when the fire started. Owner stated they all inhaled a good bit of smoke. All the other passengers on the vessel were on shore. Wife stated she had several burn marks on her arms but none were blistering. Wife denied any medical care at the time.

Owner stated that at approximately 2130 hours. after they had cleaned up the vessel's cabin, they decided to drive the vessel back to Bullfrog Marina. Owner mentioned that he had two personal watercraft with him. He stated that he towed one of the personal watercraft and allowed his nineteen year old son to follow behind his vessel on their way back to Bullfrog Marina. Owner stated at approximately 2200 hours, both vessels ran aground on a sandbar near buoy 77. He stated that he was able to clear the props and follow the main channel buoy lights all the way back to Bullfrog Marina; arriving in Bullfrog Marina at approximately 0200 hours on May 29th 2018. When asked, Owner admitted that his navigation lights do not work. On land, while conducting an investigation of the accident, I conducted a vessel safety inspection of the vessel. It was documented that the vessel did not have any type IV personal flotation device, operating navigation lights, operable fire extinguisher, nor did it have any noise signaling device such as a horn, whistle or  bell. I issued Owner a federal violation notice for operating a vessel with no navigation lights displayed, which is a violation of 33 CFR 83 20. I also provided Owner with a boating safety brochure and educated him with verbal warning for the missing safety equipment on his vessel.


BARDID: UT-2018-0016
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-05-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 08:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE POWELL
NearestCityorTown: HALLS CROSSING
County: SAN JUAN
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
At approximately 1010hrs we received a call of an individual who had a broken nose and large bumps on head. CALLER saw the individual at Bullfrog Main Ramp while he was pulling his boat from the water. CALLER asked if the individual wanted a ranger for medical attention which he replied no, he was going back to his camp and sleep. CALLER followed him back to the campground area informing us that he was in site A.

When we arrived at approximately 1014 hrs I knocked on the RV door calling him outside. I talked with the individual who had a broken nose and dried blood on his head and around his nose. He informed me that he was trying to sleep for a few hours before driving back to Denver.

Around 0600 hrs VICTIM departed Bullfrog, UT heading towards the Escalante Arm. While operating the vessel (Black over White 2016 Ranger) heading south; VICTIM ran into a group of rocks on the west side near Buoy 77 at approximately 0730 hrs. VICTIM said fell asleep while operating the vessel. VICTIM was unable to tell me how long he was unconscious for. VICTIM had injuries to his forehead and nose. I saw blood on the port side of the vessel were VICTIM had fallen down after the crash. VICTIM then backed the vessel of the rocks and returned to Bullfrog approximately 1014 hrs. VICTIM is 100% at fault for the incident. No other vessels were damaged and no one witnessed the incident.


VOLUNTARY STATEMENT - Victim
Fell asleep on the way from Bullfrog to San Juan River, woke up in the rocks.


BARDID: UT-2018-0017
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-06-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE POWELL
NearestCityorTown: N/A
County: N/A
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Restricted vision
AccidentCause3: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
On June 19th 2018, in the Bullfrog district of Glen Canyon Recreational Area, at approximately 1100 hours I, U.S. Park Ranger, was called into service by dispatch to investigate a reported vessel accident that happened by buoy 66 the night before. I along with U.S. Ranger responded to buoy 66 to find a capsized vessel next to a visible sandbar. The vessel was lying on its port side in shallow water but did not have any visible bow numbers.

While on scene with the capsized vessel I was informed by dispatch, via the radio; the owner of the capsized vessel was on a houseboat named Diamond Sunrise in Rincon Bay. Ranger and I located Diamond Sunrise and the owner of the capsized vessel was identified. Owner stated he was just about to head back to Bullfrog Marina to dock his houseboat and that Aramark was unable to get his capsized vessel until the next morning. I made arrangements to meet with OWNER later that night to get further information about his capsized vessel until the next morning. I made arrangements to meet with OWNER later that night to get further information about his capsized vessel and what had happened.

Later that night Ranger and I met Owner to talk about the accident and had him fill out a witness statement. When asked what happened when the vessel capsized Owner stated around 2030 hours his fourteen year old son was driving from Rainbow Bridge back to their houseboat at Rincon Bay when they cut a turn too close and hit an island right across from Hole in a Rock. Owner stated there were ten people on board at the time of the accident and no one was seriously injured.

The fourteen year old boy stated he did not see the island until he hit it.

I spoke with a passenger on the vessel when it capsized; who stated that he did not have any injuries from the accident but his girlfriend did have some muscle pain in right leg. She was planning on seeing a doctor in the next few days about her right leg.

I spoke with another passenger on the vessel when it capsized; who informed me his head was hurting from hitting it when they flipped. Subject refused any medical attention.

Ranger informed me that another passenger on the vessel had told him the fourteen year old boy wears corrective lenses and was not wearing them at the time of the accident. View Ranger video recording.

The 66 buoy corner is currently marked with one red buoy with a functioning blinking red light. If operator had followed the main channel and had a proper look out he would have been able to avoid the island.


The man I was talking to in the brief part of my recording also stated that there were injuries, but no one wanted to report them or get seen while in Bullfrog. I asked him why not, he stated something to the context of, he is our friend and we do not want to ruin his insurance. I tried to explain that boating insurance is more like homeowners insurance than auto, meaning that it will cover injuries that occur on the vessel without affecting premiums from my experience. I again asked if he or anyone wanted to be seen by either a Park Ranger EMT, or the PA at Bullfrog Clinic. He and all other parties denied any medical treatment.

The owner of the boat is a chiropractor, he stated that he is going to x-ray his son's arm (the driver of the vessel when it ran aground, and flipped over), as soon as they get back home.


BARDID: UT-2018-0018
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-06-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:40:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE POWELL
NearestCityorTown: HALL CROSSING
County: SAN JUAN
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On june 23rd, 2018 at approximately 4:20 pm I, Rangers received a report from dispatch of a boat accident with no injuries at Halls Crossing Marina.

Upon arriving on scene we were approached by the driver of the Mastercraft who stated that no one was on the Mastercdraft at the time of the accident, but were all on the dock when they noticed a houseboat heading parallel to the dock in a northerly direction. SUBJECT1 said the house boat was navigating poorly with the wind which had picked up to 15 mph out of the southwest. He said the houseboat still under power was pushed by the wind and waves into the starboard side of the Mastercraft. He included that the starboard toy rack on his Mastercraft's tower took the initial impact. He said the wind then rotated the houseboat perpendicular with the Mastercraft and rubbed along the starboard side and then the houseboat used the starboard side of the swim platform as a pivot point to turn around and move away from the dock to get docked on the southern side of the marina. SUBJECT1 also filled out a voluntary statement form on the incident.

I then approached the houseboat and identified the driver. OPERATOR2 stated that he was having trouble maintaining control of the houseboat due to the wind and attempted to reverse away from the Mastercraft before hitting its starboard side. He said the reverse was just not able to overcome the wind coming from behind him. OPERATOR2 recalled that they rotated around and they were finally able to back away from the Mastercraft a little after they were fully perpendicular with it.

No one reported any injuries. SUBJECT1 reported damages on his Mastercraft as starboard side dents and scratches, the wakeboard rack and tower were bent and dented, a wakeboard and wakesurfing board had cracks and dented, and we gave SUBJECT1 our information to take photos of the stern starboard side of the boat when he removed it from the water just in case of underwater level damage.

With winds at a strong 15mph out of the southwest. OPERATOR2 did his best to maneuver his boat but due to lack of experience and weather factors was unable to gain enough thrust to keep his rental houseboat from hitting SUBJECT1's Mastercraft.

Aramark had been in contacted multiple times about sending us a copy of the registration. I received a copy of the valid registration on August 11, 2018 at approximately 10:38.


BARDID: UT-2018-0019
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-07-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE POWELL
NearestCityorTown: BULLFROG
County: KANE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
On June 3, 2018 at approximately 1615 hours, I U.S. Park Ranger was in a meeting within the Bullfrog District Ranger Office, in Glen Canyon National Recreational Area, when U.S. Park Rangers were dispatched to the Bullfrog Clinic for a report of a 46 year old male waiting at the clinic door with a severed thumb. Dispatch had notified clinic staff and they were on their way to the clinic. When we arrived to the clinic door we found victim and his wife. Victim had his left hand wrapped up so we brought him into the clinic to evaluate him. Clinic staff then arrived and treated Victim.

I then spoke with Wife about what had happened to cause this injury. She stated herself, Victim, her two daughters and their daughter's friend, had been tubing in Hall Creek Bay for a few hours when Victim jumped into the water to tube. Wife stated she started to move the vessel but had to stop very quickly because her daughters were yelling at her to stop because Victim had fallen off.

I then spoke with Victim. He stated the tow line was wrapped around his arm when he was first getting on the tube. Victim was able to get the line off his arm, but it was still wrapped around his left hand. Victim continued to state when the vessel started to move the line tightened around his thumb and pulled off the top half of his left thumb. Victim immediately fell into the water and started to look for his thumb but could not find it.

Wife then attempted to call 911 but was unable due to a lack of phone service. Wife then boated to Bullfrog executive docks where they were shuttled to the clinic by Aramark staff. On the way to the clinic, Wife was able to contact Glen Canyon dispatch and report the injury.


BARDID: UT-2018-0020
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-08-01 00:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE POWELL
NearestCityorTown: PAGE
County: KANE
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
On August 1, 2018 I responded to the Wahweap main launch for a medical that occurred near buoy 20. The injured party was to be boating down to Wahweap to get an assessment of his injuries. The injured party denied medical care and self-transported to the Page hospital.

INVESTIGATION
SUBJECT verbally stated that he was wake surfing behind the vessel and was pulling himself closer to the vessel to get a better wake when he fell off the board and the tow rope wrapped around his right bicep and forearm causing it to become injured. The driver of the vessel stated that he was going about 10 miles per hour when he saw his father fall and get tangled in the rope. He then felt resistance as his father was drug by the boat. He stopped the vessel immediately after seeing the fall. The sons placed him on the vessel and had their houseboat make a marine 16 notification to Glen Dispatch Center that they would be coming to Wahweap.

END OF REPORT


BARDID: UT-2018-0021
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-06-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: PINEVIEW RESERVOIR
NearestCityorTown: HUNTSVILLE
County: WEBER COUNTY
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person struck by vessel
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
On 6/27/2018 I was advised by the owner of Club Rec, that he had information related to the hit and run. Subject was doing maintenance on one of the company boats, 2018 Mooba Sport, and found damage on the haul under the water line and decals. Subject contacted the last person to rent the boat.

Operator2 explained to Subject that he was involved in an accident on the water. Operator2 provided his insurance information to Subject. Operator2 explained that he attempted to report it to Subject but he could not find him when he turned in the boat that day.

Subject encouraged Operator2 to call dispatch to report the incident. At about 1300 hours I made contact with Operator2 after he called dispatch. Operator2 explained that he was in the area of the point on the water. While he was leaving the wakeless area he collided with a jet ski. Operator2 attempted to talk to the driver of the jet ski, but they would not respond and left the area. Operator2 stated that called the non-emergency line for Weber Dispatch and spoke with the call taker. Operator2 explained the incident and was told to call back into dispatch when he reached the beach area due to him not knowing where he was on the water. Operator2 continues to say that he called back when he reached Bluff Marina but no deputies responded. Operator2 agreed to meet with me later in the day to make a written statement. At about 1600 hours I met with Operator2 at Bluff Marina and collected a written statement from Operator2.

I did a records check looking for the history of Operator2's attempted call, I was not able to locate any information that showed Operator2 had called. I made contact with a dispatcher over the phone and asked for a more detailed search. I was advised that no information could be found. A dispatch supervisor was then reached and asked to assist. The supervisor was able to find the information as well as the recording of the call. I was advised that the call taker that took the call was in training and it was unknown why the information was not passed to me or any of the other deputies that were investigating the case. The recording of the call was played over the phone. Operator2 did attempt to report the incident at about 1710 hours.

Due to finding the information that Operator2 did attempt to report the incident, no criminal charges will be pursued in this case.

OPERATOR2 - STATEMENT
Approximately 5:00 pm I trolled my boat just outside of the buoy and turned right. I stood up to tell my passengers that we were ready to go and made sure they all sat down. As I pushed the throttle forward for a couple of seconds, I heard someone scream at the front of the boat. I immediately put the boat in neutral and my passengers were pointing at someone behind us. I turned around and went over to the jet skier and asked if they were ok. They didn't answer the question so I asked them to wait there so I can call it in. In the process of dialing Huntsville, AL, and then Huntsville, UT dispatch the jet skier got back on the jet ski and started to drive away. I finally dialed Weber County Dispatch and let them know there had been an accident and the jet skier was driving away and that's what I let the dispatch know. She asked me where I was and I was unable to give her a location. I can't remember if the conversation ended with I will call you back or you call me back. At that moment I thought there was no longer an incident but I stayed in the same location for about an hour. I didn't hear anything back so we went in to leave.

I asked my passenger what he saw and he said the jet skier came up from behind about 8:00 position and tried to run around and beat us in front. I hope the diagram works.


BARDID: UT-2018-0022
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-06-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE POWELL
NearestCityorTown: PAGE
County: KANE
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
On June 29, 2018 at approximately 1210hrs (MST), NPS Medic 1 and I were dispatched to an individual who had sustained as upper arm injury while aboard a vessel which was currently moored at Antelope Point Marina. I made contact with the reporting party at the Antelope Point Marina Store. The victim was transported to Banner Pager Emergency Department via NPS Medic 1.

The operator of vessel stated that at approximately 1200hrs (MST) they were recreating on Lake Powell just north of the mouth of Labyrinth Canyon in Kane County, Utah. He stated that the vessel was moving at 11.2mph with the victim in tow wake surfing. The victim wrapped her left arm in the ski rope in a manner which caused her to sustain an injury to her upper arm when the rope became taught. The victim was loaded onto the vessel and transported to Antelope Point Marina to meet with emergency responders. No environmental factors played a role in this accident. No vessel damage was sustained.


BARDID: UT-2018-0023
State: UT
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2018-07-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Powell
NearestCityorTown: Bullfrog
County: Kane
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
AccidentCause1: Ignition of spilled fuel or vapor
AccidentCause2: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Fuel
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
SYNOPSIS
   On 7/18/18 there was an explosion on a houseboat at Bullfrog, Lake Powell. No occupants were on the boat and no one was injured. The boat was a complete loss as a result from the fire.

NARRATIVE
   On 7/18/18  the houseboat named 'FELICITY' was docked in slip under the covered docks at Bullfrog Marina in Lake Powell; there were no occupants aboard the vessel. At 2110 hrs NPS dispatch received a call that a boat was on fire. Witnesses stated there was an explosion on the houseboat 'FELICITY'. The explosion was powerful enough to scatter debris onto both of the vessels parked on either side, and forty feet in front of 'FELICITY'. 

   The owners of the vessel docked next to 'FELICITY' in were in their vessel when the explosion happened; owner completed a witness statement (see attached). Owner claimed the fire was at the stern of the vessel and he tried to put it out with his fire extinguisher. Subject2 was on his boat in slip when the explosion occurred. SUBJECT2 claimed he responded to 'FELICITY', felt the fire could not be suppressed, and instructed people at the scene to untie 'FELICITY' and push it away from the docks. SUBJECT2 is a fireman in the Salt Lake City area; SUBJECT2 completed a witness statement (see attached).

   SUBJECT2 claimed 'FELICITY' was burning at the stern end when they pushed it away from the docks, and that the flames where not very high. Less than thirteen minutes 'FELICITY' was at the breakwater and fully engulfed in flames. SUBJECT2 thought once 'FELICITY' got out into the lake and into the wind, the fire moved throughout the vessel. SUBJECT2 heard three explosions as 'FELICITY' drifted towards the breakwater; one explosion was noticeably louder than the others. 

 NPS dispatch recorded the following timeline: 2010 hrs, call came in a boat was on fire; 2015 hrs, boat is at the breakwater fully engulfed; 2026 hrs, NPS fire boat is on scene; 2104 hrs, boat is at the Main Bullfrog ramp. The distance from the dock to the breakwater is approximately 100 feet. 

EVENTS LEADING UP TO THE EXPLOSION
   SPENDRUP claimed the following. 
   -One of the co-owners of 'FELICITY' had worked on 'FELICITY' all day Tuesday (7/17). 
   -Subject told him he was working on the port engine and inverter.
   - Subject left  'FELICITY' at approximately 0930 hrs Wednesday (7/18).
   -He and his wife went boating on the lake Wednesday and returned to their slip at approximately 1700 hrs. When they returned his wife stated she smelled gasoline. 

INSPECTION OF THE VESSEL
   On 7/21/18 I met with NPS Rangers and inspected 'FELICITY' at Aramark dry storage at Bullfrog. There was not a drain plug so several holes were made in the hull and transom with a drill and axe to drain the water. Deputy State Fire Marshal conducted an inspection and concluded the following: gas fumes were present in the engine compartment; a spark occurred in the engine compartment that ignited the fumes; the explosion was probably started in the area of the port engine. The vessel was burned completely down to the steel mono hull. Hoses and electrical wires sustained damage, some to the point where they were completely gone.

STATEMENT FROM OWNERS
The generator didn't have an external fuel tank and was portable. They stored portable plastic fuel tanks on the main fuel tank in the engine compartment and secured them with bungees. To keep corrosions off the outdrives an isolation transformer was installed. The extension cord that ran from the bow of the vessel to the engine compartment supplied electricity to the isolation transformer and a battery charger. The blower motor that exhausted fumes from the engine compartment worked when he was at the vessel in May. The fuel tank held ninety gallons. He estimated it had seventy gallons of fuel in it when the explosion occurred.


Subject
The automatic bilge pump was working. The engine compartment blower was working. The blower was activated manually with a switch. The fuel tank had 13" of fuel in it. The fuel was checked by a dipping a stick into the tank. The shore power was connected when he left the vessel on 7/18/18. Nothing was being powered by the shore power. He didn't work on the engines on 7/17/18. Two or three years ago the vessel was taken out of the water and taken to Offshore Marina where work was performed on it. The smaller fuel tank after the main tank hadn't been used since he had been involved with the vessel. He hadn't connected anything to the extension cord that ran from the front of the boat to the engine compartment. Nothing electrical should have been running when he left the vessel on 7/18.


BARDID: UT-2018-0024
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-08-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Deer Creek Reservoir
NearestCityorTown: Heber City
County: Wasatch
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person departed vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Saturday August 11, 2018 at approximately 1145 hours Vessel One while attempting to dock at Deer Creek State Park Main Dock was traveling between 1-10 mph.  a passenger on the boat had jumped onto the dock to catch Vessel One. With his feet on the dock and his hands on the vessel, his right foot slipped. The vessel's bow pinched his leg between the boat and the dock, causing severe pain and he suffered a broken leg.  he lay on the dock until EMS personnel arrived. he would refuse EMS transport, and would be self-transported to an emergency room in Utah County.


BARDID: UT-2018-0025
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-07-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Powell
County: Kane
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Alcohol
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
SYNOPSIS:

Responded to report of vessel injury accident near Lone Rock Beach.  Investigated accident that involved a PWC vs. PWC collision.  Both passengers from one PWC were injured.  One was flown via helicopter to St. George for treatment (passenger) and other was taken via ambulance to Page Hospital for treatment and then later flown to St. George(operator vessel 2).  During the investigation it was determined the operator of vessel 1 was impaired and he was arrested for DUI.

INVESTIGATION:

One of the NPS Rangers on scene pointed out to me the owner of both PWC's involved in the accident and the operator of one of the PWC's.  I contacted the individual who was identified as the operator of one of the PWC's and asked him to tell me what had happened.  He identified himself as Operator1’ and explained how the accident had occurred.  OPERATOR1 stated that he had been operating one PWC alone and the other PWC was being operated by a female that was currently being treated in the NPS ambulance with one person on behind her as a passenger (male with broken left leg).  

OPERATOR1 stated that both he and OPERATOR2 had taken off from the same point just a little ways off Lone Rock Beach.  He stated they were both going at likely the two PWC's maximum speed which he stated was about 40-45 mph for his PWC and 50+ for OPERATOR2's.  He stated that OPERATOR2's PWC was faster so she was slightly in front of him and off to his right, about 40 feet away.  OPERATOR1 stated that OPERATOR2 made a sudden left turn right in front of him.  He stated he immediately let off the throttle and engaged the reverse but it was too close.  He stated at first his bow dropped low as he hit the reverse but his vessels wake seemed to lift the bow up just as he struck the other PWC and its occupants.  He stated his PWC traveled all the way over the other PWC and he estimated his speed at the point of impact at approximately 30 mph.  I had OPERATOR1 fill out a witness statement.

I then spoke to the owner of both vessels.  He gave me the registration information and insurance information for both PWC's.  I then took photo's of the PWC's and the visible damage to vessel 2.  There were some minor scrapes and rub marks on the port side gunwale of vessel 2.  There were a few scrapes/tears on the left side of the seat on vessel 2.  The left side handle bar had damage on vessel 2.  I could see no visible damage on vessel 1 but I believe there are likely some minor scrapes on the bottom of the hull.

The damage and OPERATOR1's account of the accident lead me to believe vessel 1 was traveling at a high rate of speed which would lift its hull up out of the water more.  Due to the higher rate of speed and the wave/wake OPERATOR1 remembers lifting his bow up right before impact, vessel 1 primarily impacted the passengers of vessel 2 which accounts for their injuries and the very limited damage to vessel 1 & 2.

During my interaction with OPERATOR1 I detected the odor of an alcoholic beverage coming from his person as well as some other indicators of possible impairment.  Upon further investigation into OPERATOR1's level of impairment I placed him under arrest for DUI.  

I went to the Page Hospital at around 2000 hours on 7/28/18 to speak to OPERATOR2 about the accident.  I was told she was flown to St. George for spleen injuries and rib injuries. Her passenger was unable to be spoken to at that time but that he had been informed the broken left leg was his primary injury.

CONCLUSIONS:

Ultimate cause of accident was both vessels failing to obey speed & proximity. OPERATOR2 failed to keep a proper lookout before altering her course to the left. Once vessel 2 began to pull ahead of vessel 1 it became OPERATOR1's responsibility to observe speed & proximity which he failed to do. OPERATOR1 was not able to avoid colliding with OPERATOR2 due to violation of speed & proximity, and by completely letting off his throttle he lost ability to effectively steer his vessel. Both of these violations were contributed to by OPERATOR1's impairment by alcohol. It's unknown if OPERATOR2 was impaired as I was unable to observe her before she was transported off the scene for medical care. NPS Ranger was providing care to OPERATOR2 and stated he attempted to perform the HGN test on OPERATOR2 but she was unable to keep her eyes open.


BARDID: UT-2018-0026
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-08-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:38:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Bear Lake
NearestCityorTown: Laketown
County: Rich
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
Synopsis:
Boating Accident with towed person being thrown from tube.

Narrative:
OPERATOR was operating the vessel, towing VICTIM on an inflated tube.  OPERATOR's general operating pattern was circles and figure eights so as to be able to get the person on the tube to be able to experience riding the tube over the vessel's previously made wakes.

Just prior to the accident, OPERATOR was operating the vessel in a circle, causing VICTIM to go outside the wake on the tube.  VICTIM, on the tube, hit a wave/wake, causing the tube to flip and fly up into the air.  As the tube came back towards the water, VICTIM was "slammed" into the water very hard.
__________

I was notified of the accident while I was in Logan.

I arrived at the Garden City LDS church just as the AirMed helicopter was taking off with VICTIM on board.

I was able to interview and question OPERATOR at that Garden City LDS church as he was able to load the boat onto the trailer and tow it to that location prior to my arrival.

When I questioned OPERATOR, he described his operation activities.  He also estimated speed the vessel's speed at the time of the accident @ 35 mph.  He did make a comment to me that the fastest he could get the boat to go earlier in the day was 37 mph.  Prior to my arrival at the site of VICTIM being flown from Garden City, OPERATOR had estimated his speed to RCSO Deputy at @ 25 mph.

I gathered information and took photos of the vessel and its associated paperwork.  When I inspected the label on the tube, the recommended maximum speed listed on the tube's label for adults was 20 mph.


BARDID: UT-2018-0027
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-08-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:06:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Bear Lake
NearestCityorTown: Garden City
County: Rich
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
INITIAL NOTIFICATION
Rich County Dispatch received a 911 call about an emergency near the marina at 1209 hours. Rich Dispatch paged an ambulance at 1211 hours to respond to the marina for the medical incident with 'CPR in progress'.

ARRIVAL
Park Manager/Ranger and I were on our way into the marina with legislative tour members on our separate park patrol vessels. Ranger was flagged down first by VESSEL #1 entering the marina with the patient onboard. Ranger notified dispatch that he was with the patient and one of the group members on his vessel, who is a Rich County EMT, boarded VESSEL #1 with the patient to assist with CPR.

VESSEL #1's operator then drove to the courtesy dock and I followed as we then entering the marina. As I missed some of the radio traffic as we were underway on the lake, I ensured dispatch had an ambulance en-route and that I would be with the patient at the courtesy dock. I docked the patrol vessel and obtained the first aid kit and a bag valve mask device to assist with CPR. As I approached VESSEL #1 with the patient, I found there was already another local EMT on scene with supplies. As I made contact I found the patient was now breathing, conscious and somewhat alert.

INVESTIGATION
As VICTIM was being loaded into the ambulance, I began gathering information about the incident from those involved. I was told VICTIM had been sitting on the tube/water weenie and as the boat turned to start the tow, VICTIM fell off into the water, began to struggle and was recovered by family as he lay face down in the water. The family then pulled him onboard VESSEL #1, started CPR and entered the marina where they met with Ranger. I was told that as they met with Ranger near the marina mouth, Rich County EMT and a slip renter  (EMT) then boarded VESSEL #1 and assisted with CPR/patient care.

The family told me that VICTIM was wearing a PFD. They told me that he had suffered a similar medical issue about ten years ago while hunting and was flown off a mountain by helicopter to a hospital. They also told me that they found VICTIM had symptoms similar to either pericarditis or cardiac tampanode in the previous incident. No other medical issues or injuries were reported.

TRANSPORT
The decision was made by the medical personnel on scene to have VICTIM transported by helicopter to a hospital. Airmed landed at 1304 hours and left at 1320 hours. VICTIM was flown by Airmed helicopter to McKay Dee Hospital. 

FOLLOW-UP
On 8/4/2018 I was told VICTIM returned to the marina and was thanking those involved in the incident. According to Ranger, VICTIM told those he spoke with that the doctors told him he suffered a near-drowning according to doctors, not a cardiac issue as his family initially thought.


BARDID: UT-2018-0028
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-07-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Powell
County: Kane
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
AccidentCause2: Improper anchoring
AccidentCause3: Weather
MachineryFailure: Engine
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
SYNOPSIS:

Responded to reports of a sinking houseboat in Last Chance Canyon.  Located houseboat Grand Reflection moored/anchored to shore in Last Chance Canyon.  Vessel had received damage to the outdrive and hull seal causing it to take on water.  Hole was partially sealed and bilge was keeping up with leak.  

INITIAL CALL:

At approximately 1600 hours on 7/27/18 NPS Dispatch put out a call for a sinking houseboat in Last Chance Canyon.  Dangling Rope NPS Rangers responded from Dangling Rope Marina.  Reports were the vessel was approximately 3/4 back in the canyon in a side cove.  The NPS Rangers and I started searching coves for the houseboat approximately 1/2 way back.  I was flagged down by a ski type vessel in one side canyon and they stated they were with the houseboat.  I followed them back to their houseboat and NPS Rangers also followed us.

INVESTIGATION:

I found the vessel was not sinking.  During an escalated wind time they were attempting to anchor the vessel to the beach at their location.  The port side motor had been un-operable for the whole trip.  During the wind event the starboard side outdrive and struck rocks in the area and the through-hull seal had also been severely damaged.  This caused the vessel to begin taking on water in the starboard motor compartment.  A nearby good samaritan helped them block most of the leak with towels and the bilge was then able to pump out the reported 2 feet of water in the motor compartment.

I had the vessel operator and owner fill out a witness statement.  I had them start the generator to make sure they could charge their batteries and keep the bilge running.  I instructed them to use their ski vessel to exit the canyon and get cell coverage where they could call the antelope marina where they moored their houseboat.  I told them that either antelope marina or Aramark could send a mechanic out to survey the damage and tow the vessel back in.

VOLUNTARY STATEMENT - operator
We're pulling into the beach and wind picked up and lost control of boat. Pulled motor and used Seadoo's to try to control, but wind was more than we could handle. Finally beach boat and outdrive was leaking water. Started to sink, were able to reduce leaking around drive shaft and pump out water. Still leaking, but slow no operating motor on boat.


BARDID: UT-2018-0029
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-07-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:15:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Powell
County: Kane
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Person departed vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentCause3: Alcohol
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
SYNOPSIS:

On 7/21/18, during a short micro-burst/monsoon storm, a vessel was attempting to offload its passengers on Lone Rock Beach.  The operator of the boat believed all the passengers were exiting off the bow of the boat and then backed off the beach quickly to go ride out the storm in the bay.  When the vessel reversed off the beach it ran over one of the passengers that had exited the vessel over the side.  The passenger received multiple propeller cuts to both legs.  She was flown out to St. George for Hospital treatment.


INVESTIGATION:

I arrived on scene at approximately 1640 hours.  I met with two NPS Rangers and they identified which vessel had been involved and the associated group of people as well as the boat operator. I identified the vessel operator/owner and asked him to walk down to the boat with me to retrieve his vessel registration and insurance information.  Ranger remained with a large group of associated people and began having all the passengers of the vessel fill out witness statement.

At the vessel I interviewed operator.  He stated that the micro-burst storm was rolling in and he wanted to get all the people off his boat at their campsite on Lone Rock beach. He put the vessel bow into the beach and told the passengers to exit the vessel from the bow.  The wind was blowing out of the north gusting to 25 mph at the time of the accident.  OPERATOR1 stated that when most of the passengers had quickly exited the vessel he quickly reversed his vessel back off the beach and went out into the bay to ride out the storm.  He stated that he returned to the beach approx. 20 minutes later when the storm had receded and learned that Victim had been injured.  I had OPERATOR1 fill out a witness statement.

I then returned to the group and assisted Ranger in making sure everyone who had been on the vessel filled out a witness statement, whether they saw anything or not.  In speaking with the group it became apparent that it had been a hectic time.  The storm was picking up intensity when they were trying to get off the boat.  The wind was blowing tents down the beach and group members were trying to retrieve tents and belongings that were blowing away.  Nobody seemed to have witnessed exactly what had happened to the injured party, Victim.

In speaking with the group and reviewing witness statements that included everyone's dates of birth it was apparent that most of the group had been drinking alcoholic beverages.  Some were still drinking in our presence (those over 21 yrs of age).  During my contact away from the group with OPERATOR1, I did not detect any odor of alcohol or any signs of impairment.  OPERATOR1 stated to me that he had not been drinking any alcoholic beverages that day.  Before departing the scene I informed the group that I was aware that there were people under 21 years of age that had been drinking and I advised them to stop and to not drive or the accident would not be the only bad event that happened to them that day.

On 7/22/18 Ranger spoke with Victim at Dixie Regional Hospital. He had her fill out a witness statement and verified that her injuries were all propeller cut lacerations. She had lacerations to both legs but more to her left leg, including her buttocks. Ranger asked if she had been drinking alcohol that day and she stated she had not. In her statement she remembered jumping off the side of the boat when they had beached it. When she came up to the waters the boat was already reversing and ran over her. She had to be all the way under the vessel to get struck by the propeller.

OPERATOR1 would have reversed over her made a quick turn and shifted into forward heading into the bay. One person heard VICTIM screaming in the water and ran to her aid discovering she had been injured

The causes of the accident were the stormy weather conditions causing waves, blowing tents and other items around the beach while a chaotic off-loading of the vessels passengers took place. This hectic scene was surely distracting to OPERATOR1 while he was trying to keep the vessel bow into the beach and he failed to observe that VICTIM had exited the vessel on the side. He failed to keep a proper lookout when reversing off the beach and struck VICTIM with the vessel and the propeller. Another contributing factor is likely that Victim was at least somewhat impaired by alcohol when the accident occurred as were other passengers. 

On 7/23/18 I spoke with NPS Ranger, who had been first to arrive on scene and to evaluate and treat Victim. He informed me that he could detect the odor of an alcoholic beverage coming from VICTIM and that her boyfriend had informed him that they had both drank alcohol that day.


BARDID: UT-2018-0030
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-07-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:55:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Willard Bay
NearestCityorTown: Willard
County: Box Elder
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
SYNOPSIS:

2 Waverunner were traveling Eastbound. One wave runner  turned left. The other waverunner impacted the bow of the other creating breaking damage on the impacted waverunner. The impacted waverunner was towed into the North Marina by the impacting waverunner. 

PRE-ACCIDENT EVENTS:

On July 15, 2018 about 14:40 hours Vessel 1 and 2 were traveling Eastbound about 50 feet from each. They were waverunners. The location was West of Eagle Beach, Willard Bay Reservoir, Willard City, UT. Both vessel's were traveling above a wakeless speed on plane. 

ACCIDENT EVENTS:

Vessel 2 turned left sharply left into the Path. The starboard side bow was facing the bow of Vessel 1. Vessel 1 continued traveling Eastbound on plane striking into the starboard side hull of Vessel 2. The operator of Vessel 2 was totally ejected injuring his left ankle with. 

The damage resulting to Vessel 2 was breaking damage to the hull (see damage report details). The damage to Vessel 1 was minor gouges (see damage report details. 

CONLUSION:

Both operators were looked at medically and did not need transport (minor injuries). Both were issued citations for speed and proximity failure to obey. Operator1 was issued a warnings for failure to avoid an accident. 

The events concluded in the accident were estimated by the resulting damage on both vessels, as well as witness statements. The conclusion was Vessel 1 impacted Vessel 2.


BARDID: UT-2018-0031
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-07-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Bear Lake
NearestCityorTown: Laketown
County: Rich
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 14, 2018, at approximately 0930 hours, operator was seen running a rental boat aground. The rental company changed the propeller on the boat and sent them back out. After a few minutes out on the water, operator came back in and reported that the boat was making weird noises.

The rental company found that the transmission had been broken and needed to be replaced. I was called about the accident at 1450 hours.


BARDID: UT-2018-0032
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-07-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:00:00
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
NameOfBodyOfWater: Willard Bay
NearestCityorTown: Willard
County: Box Elder
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
At approximately 0930 on 7/10/2018 I was contacted by Willard Bay camp host who told me that there was a white Jeep parked on Eagle Beach that had been there since Sunday night.  SUBJECT1 also told me that on the beach in the same area on Sunday night she had picked up some items that were on the beach that included flip flops, a chair, a towel, two bags, a drink, and a set of keys.  I took the keys and verified that they did in fact go to the vehicle.  I unlocked and started the vehicle to confirm that it was not broken down.  I asked dispatch to send a Perry Officer to the residence of the registered owner to see if they could make contact with anyone.  Nobody was at home and none of the neighbors had seen him.  I collected the items from SUBJECT1 and took them to our office for safe keeping.  I searched the vehicle to see if there was anything to help us fine the registered owner and found a business card for OPERATOR.  We attempted to contact the place of employment and found that it was an old business card.  I called Box Elder County Sheriffs Office for assistance and asked if their dive team could come out and run some side sonar in the area of Eagle Beach where the stuff was found.  I then went out with Ranger and started to search the area of Eagle Beach while we waited for Box Elder County to arrive.

At approximately 1400 hours Bow Elder County dive team and Sheriff arrived to assist.  I gave them information and the dive team started to search the area while Sheriff and I worked with Detectives on locating family.  OFFICER1 was able to get in touch with family and friends that hadn't heard from OPERATOR since Sunday evening and also that he was an avid paddle boarder that came to Willard Bay a lot.  With this information we started widening the search and looking for the paddle board.  I sent officers on around the dike and we continued searching on the water as well.  OFFICER1 was able to ping OPERATOR's phone to the area and then use find my phone to find OPERATOR's Iphone on the north dike at approximately 19:20.  Using this information we developed a plan for continuing the search the next morning.  I made contact with family members and friends that had arrived and gave them an update of the situation.  Two people were identified as contacts for the family.  

On 7/11/2018 at approximately 07:00 we started preparing to continue the search.  I sent seasonal to the Willow Creek campground area north to look while we got the rest ready to go.  At 07:33 Seasonal called me saying that he found OPERATOR on the north dike by the outlet.  I responded and notified OFFICER1 who was at command with family members.  I also had State Parks and Box Elder County boats respond to assist with the recovery.  I arrived with officers on the dike and could see OPERATOR's body against the rocks.  There was blood coming from his head that appeared to be from hitting the rocks.  With the help from the boats we loaded OPERATOR in to a boat.  OPERATOR was then transported to our maintenance yard to wait for the medical examiner.  I went to command to notify the family and OFFICER1 had them gathered around.  I notified the family that we had recovered OPERATOR and also called family to notify him as he was not there yet.  I took some of the family to see the body with the medical examiner and then went back to Eagle Beach at the request of the family to talk with them.  The family gave me a written statement they had for the press release and a photo that I forwarded to our PIO.  In our media release we asked for help in locating the paddle board that was not recovered to see if it would give us any more information on what happened.

On 7/12/2018 we received multiple calls about the incident.  One was a female, subject3, that was talking to OPERATOR before it happened. SUBJECT3 said that she talked with OPERATOR on the phone starting at 6:33 PM and that it lasted 1 hour and 44 minutes. SUBJECT3 said that OPERATOR was using earbuds that allowed him to talk and listen to music while out on the water. SUBJECT3 said that while they were talking that OPERATOR mentioned boats around and waves. The last thing said was that a wave was coming in and hold on. SUBJECT3 said that they got disconnected and she just thought that they would talk later. Another was a female that watched OPERATOR get ready and head out on his paddle board. Subject4 said that she saw OPERATOR talking on a bluetooth while pumping up his paddle board and heading out on the water around 730 and 800 pm. Subject4 saw a life jacket on the front of the paddle board but not on OPERATOR. Subject4 said that a short time after she saw OPERATOR go out on the water that a storm came through that was pretty bad blowing sand so they packed up and left. A third call was from a male that said he found the paddle board. I forwarded that information onto Ranger for him to follow up on.

Pictures taken


BARDID: UT-2018-0033
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-07-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:31:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Yuba Reservoir
NearestCityorTown: levan
County: Juab
WaterConditions: Very rough
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Fair
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
AccidentCause2: Weather
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Synopsis
On the afternoon of July 8, 2018, a strong storm blew over Yuba Reservoir creating larges swells.  The vessel involved in this accident was caught off guard and the boat was swamped sinking it in shallow water.

Initial Call
On the afternoon of July 8, 2018, I, RANGER, was contacted by dispatch of a boat taking on water just south of North Beach.  Medical was paged as well as the fire department.  I headed toward the patrol boat in order to respond but was told by dispatch all occupants made it to shore.  I informed dispatch it was too dangerous to head out on the water if they were already to shore.  I then activated the emergency lights on my patrol vehicle and headed to North Beach.

Contact
Subject informed me they had got caught in the storm and the boat was swamped.  I then got the boat registration and insurance info.  

Investigation
The storm passing over the reservoir created large swells estimated at six feet in height.  The vessel was at anchor when the storm started with the bow pointing into the wind.  A large swell came over the bow of the vessel and started to swamp it.  The Operator attempted to return to the dock to get the boat out of water but the vessel would not start possibly due to a shorted battery.  The strength of the swells turned the boat toward shore and sunk the boat in three to four feet of water within a matter of minutes.

Actions
Once the storm passed RANGER and I headed out on our patrol vessel in order to get the sunk boat out of the water.  The vessel was leaning to the starboard side with the interior just under the waterline.  The port side was elevated above the waterline.  The position of the vessel made it impossible to bail water with buckets.  We attached our tow rope to the bow eye of the vessel and were able to pull it to a level position.  The responsible party of the boat began bailing with buckets.  We placed our plug in bilge into the water to assist with removing it.  Once the boat began to float we were able to tow the vessel back to the ramp and load it onto the trailer.

Conclusion
While we were bailing and towing the boat the bilge pumps and ballast tank pumps were operable and assisted in lightening the load for the tow.  The vessel battery compartment and motor compartment were all swamped with water but were drained.  No violation of law had occurred.


BARDID: UT-2018-0035
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-07-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Deer Creek Reservoir
NearestCityorTown: Chraleston
County: Wasatch
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel operator rented the motorboat from Deer Creek Island Resort (see attached rental agreement).  OPERATOR was pulling family members on a tube behind the boat.  All vessel occupants and the 3 tubers were wearing life jackets.  While switching riders for the tube, OPERATOR put the boat in gear.  His 18 year old daughter was in the water behind the boat attempting to help one of the other girls from the water into the back of the boat, and was struck by the prop on her right calf.  She screamed to turn off the boat.  She is an EMT and directed the family members to apply pressure and applied a tunicate using a ski flag.  

Rangers and EMS responded to the 911 call and contacted the boat at the dock.  Ranger made contact from the patrol boat prior to the vessel reaching the dock where he applied a large trauma dressing.  EMS transported to Utah Valley Regional Hospital.

When interviewed OPERATOR was confused, admitted fault, and didn't know why he put the vessel in gear.  He stated that he knew his daughters and the other two girls were still in the water behind the boat.

Fault for the prop cut accident is squarely on OPERATOR, for putting his vessel in gear when he knew his passengers where in the water attempting to enter the vessel.


BARDID: UT-2018-0036
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-07-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Jordanelle Reservoir
NearestCityorTown: Heber
County: Wasatch
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent3: Flooding/swamping
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 4, 2018 aprox 1900 hours a vessel was traveling east at Jordanelle State Park reservoir in the east arm. OPERATOR was in route to see wood stacked like a tee pee on the shore line. OPERATOR estimated that he was about 100 yards from the shore line. The vessel ran aground ejecting 1 female passenger age 4. Eject passenger fell out of the bow of the vessel due to the sudden stop. No injuries were reported. 

Vessel was started taking on water. Operator and other adult male passenger tried to push the vessel off the rock that they had hit. 

Vessel was towed off the rocks and back to the main marina. Vessel was loaded on to the trailer and damage was documented. Vessel Inspection was performed as well. Operator filled out a witness statement and it is attached.


Follow up: Area was measured out with a range finder to be 65 yards from the shoreline. Area is now marked with a 13" Danger Buoy. See Attached pictures. After doing some research no previous accidents have been reported in this area.


BARDID: UT-2018-0037
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-07-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:58:00
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
NameOfBodyOfWater: Deer Creek Reservoir
NearestCityorTown: Wallsburg
County: Wasatch
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentCause1: Sharp turn
DayofWeek: Wednesday
RedactedNarrative:
Accident Events-
OPERATOR1 was operating a borrowed personal watercraft with his wife as a passenger.  Both were thrown off of the watercraft on a sharp turn.  Both occupants were wearing appropriate PFD's.  OPERATOR1 was able to get on the watercraft, and it tipped over when his wife tried to board.  OCCUPANT stated that her husband was worn out and out of breath after attempting to re-board.  They flagged over a passing small aluminum fishing boat for help.  The fishing boat was occupied by four people.  The fishing boat helped to stabilize the PWC so both occupants could re-board.  Once onboard the PWC, OPERATOR1 asked to get in the fishing boat.  Once in the fishing boat, witnesses stated that he passed out after 2 minutes in the boat.  OCCUPANT confirmed that her husband was having difficulty catching his breath before he went unconscious.  She reported that after he was in the boat, that he continued to struggle to breath and stated "I am going to die" before becoming unresponsive.  They rushed to the Main boat ramp, and they describe agonal breathing along the way, with sharp breaths every 30 seconds.

Bystander CPR-
Once on shore, witness called 911 once the fishing boat reached shore, with the help of others she pulled OPERATOR1 to shore and began CPR with other bystanders.  

First Responder CPR & AED-
Ranger and I responded from the Island boat ramp.  We arrived finding CPR being performed at the waters edge.  There was no pulse, no breathing.  I attempted to provide breaths using a CPR mask but could not see his chest rise; I could not see an obstruction and repositioned his airway, trying additional breaths.  I inserted an oral airway to try and secure an airway.  I asked another person to provide breaths.  I prepared my defibrillator.  We moved the patients feet out of the water by lifting him further up from the waters edge.  We dried off his chest and I applied the pads.  I activated the defibrillator and it advised to stand clear and not touch the patient.  No shock was advised, the AED stated to continue CPR.  I continued CPR and breaths.  

Advanced Medical-
Dispatch advised the helicopter was 3 minutes out and that I was the ground contact.  I left CPR to others, who continued performing chest compressions.  I cleared a landing zone for AirMed at the top of the boat ramp.  Two ambulances arrived before the helicopter and began providing their treatment.  They removed the AED and applied their own equipment.  Once AirMed landed, they assisted the EMT's.  They continued CPR inside the ambulance, then transported to the hospital.  I transported OCCUPANT to the hospital.  The hospital staff continued CPR, etc.  I helped OCCUPANT find a private room.  I was with the doctor when he told her that they had been attempting CPR for over an hour and had no signs of life.  The doctor allowed her to be with her husband at the termination of their efforts.  

Cause of Death-
The medical examiner will determine the cause of death, but the initial indications are that it was heart related due to the exertion from trying to get on the PWC.  Once the medical examiners report is complete, it will be attached to this report.

PWC Registration-  
Ranger gathered information related to the PWC at the camp where they were camping with their church group.  Ranger photographed the machine and was provided with a temporary registration for the brand new watercraft.  It is unclear if the watercraft was rented, or owned by someone in the camp.  Registration indicated it is owned by a subject, to which no contact information is available.  Unknown insurance.  Still attempting to find this information, and will include in a supplemental if discovered.

7/26/18-  Unable to verify any insurance information as of today's date. Submitted request to State Medical Examiner for cause of death.


BARDID: UT-2018-0038
State: UT
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2018-06-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Yuba Reservoir
NearestCityorTown: Nephi
County: Juab
WaterConditions: Unknown
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Sinking
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 a 15 foot aluminum fishing boat with a 5 Hp outboard motor was swamped with water while attempting to cross the Oasis bay near the cement block on the East side of the bay.  The vessel sunk and was not recovered.  

Rangers attempted to find vessel with no luck.  Owner will be contacted if vessel is ever discovered.  

Vessel was not registered. Owner did not have HIN or identification of vessel.  See witness statement for property not recovered that went down with vessel.


BARDID: UT-2018-0039
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-07-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:13:00
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
NameOfBodyOfWater: Provo River
NearestCityorTown: Heber
County: Wasatch
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: -1
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Tuesday
RedactedNarrative:
PRE CURSOR
On July 3, 2018 OPERATOR was kayaking on the Provo River, after he had rented a kayak from High Country Adventure. Operator was visiting from Florida and inexperienced with kayaking white water rivers. The kayak Operator had rented was approximately eight feet long, inflatable, and propelled by paddle.  Operator was issued a type III PFD by High Country Adventure, and is believed to have been wearing it at the time of his accident. 

High Country Adventure gives instruction to its patrons as they shuttle them to the top of the river. The instructions include wearing life vest, things to watch for on the river, including not going under the train trestle bridge. This instruction was believed to have been given prior to Operator receiving his rented kayak. High Country Adventure also had two staff members on the river to aide people to a pullout prior to the trestle bridge, and they were on duty at the time of the accident. 

ACCIDENT
At approximately 1500 hours Operator was kayaking on the Provo River with the trestle bridge approaching. Witnesses claim the waters began to be congested. Operator near the rear of the group and ventured to the opposite side of the pullout and got stuck in branches. Other members of his group were able to get to the pullout and walk their kayaks to another put-in after the trestle. 

Operator was noticed by High Country Adventure staff stuck prior to the trestle bridge, but after the pull-out. A staff member walked onto the trestle bridge to direct Operator. The directions given were to have him back paddle, get out of the weeds, and pull forward underneath the trestle in between the trestle pillars. 

Operator began to get out of the weeds when the river's current propelled him down the river. Operator's kayak was traveling down the river sideways when it collided with a trestle pillar. The kayak capsized, Operator was now overboard and pinned to the trestle pillar. The kayak floated down the river unscathed. The staff member called for help, and several bystanders attempted to help. 

Operator was approximately three feet deep, with his head near the white water. Operator's body was pinned/wedged against the trestle pillar. Operator had part of his body caught in the pillar boards, and parts of his clothing caught on nails sticking out of the pillar. 

Bystanders fought to help Operator for approximately 15-25 minutes to no avail. It took SAR over an hour to retrieve Operator's body. He was retrieved at 1711 hours. 

OTHER FACTS
Operator was wearing a type III PFD at the time of the accident. High Country Adventure originally advised Operator to avoid going under the trestle. However after Operator had missed the pullout, and it would have been difficult to walk-out, a staff member advised Operator to go under the trestle. 

End of Report.


BARDID: UT-2018-0040
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-07-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:07:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Bear Lake
NearestCityorTown: Laketown
County: Rich
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person struck by vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
Accident:

On July 2, 2018, at approximately 1650 hours, subject went to help an overturned hobie-cat style sail boat. The sailboat had three occupants. SUBJECT hooked onto the boat with his PWC and tried to pull it over. 

SUBJECT was able to get the boat over, but it started going over the other way. The mast struck SUBJECT on the head and knocked him unconscious. According to subject1, he was unconscious for roughly one to two minutes. SUBJECT and subject1 were rode the PWC to the closest shore they could find. Once on shore, subject1 called 911 and the ambulance got paged out at 1707 hours.

Medical Care:

SUBJECT was being transported to Logan Regional by ambulance, but after a while it was decided to have him flown. He was flown by AirMed to McKay Dee Hospital.

When two others got to the Marina, they were checked out by EMTs and released. Subject1 was also checked and released.

Conclusion:

I finished my investigation at 1759 hours. The county case number is 18-0614.


BARDID: UT-2018-0041
State: UT
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2018-06-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: East Canyon Reservoir
NearestCityorTown: Morgan
County: Morgan
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On Saturday June 30 I was going to the boat ramp to patrol on our boat.  One of our employees came running up saying someone was hurt and there was a crash on the water.  I went down to the dock and found operator2 laying in the back of a boat in a lot of pain.  

OPERATOR2 had bruising on his right leg/hip area.  Also operator1 was on the boat sitting down and his left leg was hurting.  An ambulance was called.  I could see a PWC out in the water half way sunk with just the bow sticking out of the water.  Another PWC was towing in the PWC that was sinking.  I asked what happened and caused the crash.  

OPERATOR2 stated he hit the other PWC.  I then talked to a few family members that were there.  OPERATOR2 was driving a PWC and OPERATOR1 was driving another PWC.  They were driving parallel to each other with OPERATOR2 on the left and OPERATOR1 on the right.  The distance between the two was less than 150 feet.  

At one point OPERATOR2 decided to turn right at near full throttle.  When he turned the bow of his PWC collided with the port side of the PWC that OPERATOR1 was on.  At the time of the collision both OPERATOR1 and OPERATOR2 were ejected from their machines.  

THE PWC that OPERATOR1 was on was totaled from the collision.  The PWC that OPERATOR2 was on had a couple cracks on the bow but was driven to the dock by another person. 

OPERATOR2 and OPERATOR1 were both picked up by another boat and brought to the dock.  When the ambulance arrived both parties were transported by ambulance to McKay Dee Hospital in Ogden Utah.  I helped the family get both PWC's on the trailer and took pictures of them.  Both PWC's were rentals.  I was able to get the registration and insurance information from both PWC's and perform a vessel inspection.   Both PWC's had all equipment they needed.  A citation was issued to OPERATOR2 for Speed and Proximity violation and to OPERATOR1's dad because OPERATOR1 was only 14 and didn't have a safety certificate to drive the PWC.


BARDID: UT-2018-0042
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-06-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:25:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Bear Lake
NearestCityorTown: Garden City
County: Rich
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Person departed vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Passenger/skier behavior
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
Synopsis:

I responded to a report of a boat versus person accident.

Narrative:

On June 29, 2018, at 1527 hours, dispatch paged for an ambulance to respond to the Epic RV Park for a boat versus person boat accident. It was later said the person had been hit by the propeller. I responded from the State Park Marina.

Boat Accident:

I found the boat operator and asked him what happened. OPERATOR1 told me he was coming into the Epic RV Marina. He was pulling a tube behind the boat with one person on the tube. As OPERATOR1 got to the mouth of the marina, another vessel was coming out. OPERATOR1 put the vessel in reverse to get out of the way. At about the same time, one person jumped off the back of the boat. AS the vessel went backwards, the prop caught VICTIM on her left calf, causing a deep laceration.

I asked OPERATOR1 what kind of boating experience he had. OPERATOR1 told me he had his own boat and was pretty experienced (the boat he was on was a rental). 

Conclusion:

VICTIM was loaded in the ambulance and taken to Logan Regional. I had the rental company pull the boat out of the water. I examined the vessel and did not find any damage. I finished my investigation at 1502 hours.


BARDID: UT-2018-0043
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-06-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:26:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Utah Lake
NearestCityorTown: provo
County: Utah
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
DayofWeek: Monday
RedactedNarrative:
Synopsis: I was called on by Park Ranger about a boat accident at the concession dock. I arrived and found a vessel partially on the dock. I talked to the operator and found the operator to be inexperienced with the vessel, operator with a rental vessel from Epic Rental's at Utah Lake State Park.  The vessel was able to be moved from the dock to its trailer and pulled from the water. The vessel did sustain damage under the hull from the dock cleat. I obtained all the driver and witness information and let them clear the scene.

Narrative:
Initial Call: On Monday June 25, 2018 at approximately 17:26 hours I was performing vessel patrol on Utah Lake. I received a phone call about a vessel driving up on the dock. I turned the patrol boat around and head back to the state park. I arrived at the inner marina and found a vessel partially on the dock. I took a picture from the water and parked the patrol boat.

On Scene: I went over to the vessel and saw a docking cleat punctured the bottom of the hull on the bottom of the vessel. I made contact with the operator of the vessel and obtained identification for the operator. The operator stated he was trying to back away from the dock and moved the throttle forward and the vessel shot forward and up on the dock. 

The operator stated he was renting the vessel from Epic Rental's and there was a female employee on the dock talking with the operator. The female individual had gone into the water to avoid being hit by the vessel. I took pictures of the vessel from the docks and had the operator perform field sobriety test. I did not see any clues to believe the operator was under the influences of any alcoholic beverage or drugs. I performed a vessel inspection as soon as the vessel was out of the water. I obtained witness statements and took statement from the operator. I cleared the scene back to patrol.


BARDID: UT-2018-0044
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-06-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Willard Bay
NearestCityorTown: Willard
County: Box Elder
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Sinking
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
AccidentCause3: Equipment failure
EquipmentFailure: Auxiliary
OtherEquipmentFailure: bilge
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
SYNOPSIS:

While on patrol I was notified of a boat that sank and occupants were in the water. I responded and someone had picked up the occupants in a boat. The boat was not to be seen. Witness statements were retrieved from the occupants. The boat was a rental and the company was contacted. A vessel recovery is being scheduled with the rental company.

The water conditions were choppy and the wind was blowing North. GPS Coordinates were marked where the debris field was. The items were being pushed North of our location.  

INVESTIGATION:

No injuries occurred and medical responders released the occupants without transport to a hospital. Witness statements were collected from the occupants of the boat. I had asked them what had happened. Subject said the engine stopped and they were drifting. Then the occupants looked inside where the engine was and water was in there. The water continued to come in until the boat had sank. I asked if they were all wearing life jackets. They said they were before the incident occurred. I asked if the plug was put in. They said it was. Personal Items lost were: 2 I phone 6's, and vehicle keys. 

The boat was rented from Peak Adventures in Woodscross, UT. I contacted the rental company and spoke with one of the owners. I notified him of the boat rented out had sunk in Willard Bay. I requested registration and insurance documents of the boat. He told me he would email them to me. I told him the boat needed to be recovered by them. I told him I documented the GPS coordinates of the debris field and would provide that to him. 

CONCLUSION::

The cause of boat sinking is undetermined as of now. When the boat is recovered an examination will take place to determine the cause. Based on the information that I have now 2 factors may have a role in the cause. The first factor is the weather. The wind was blowing between 12-25 miles per hours. This caused choppy conditions that may have introduced water into the boat. The second factor is equipment failure. The statements from the occupants of the boat stated the engine compartment was full of water. The water was introduced somehow into the bilge which led to the sinking.


BARDID: UT-2018-0045
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-06-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Sand Hollow Reservoir
NearestCityorTown: hurricane
County: Washington
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
Synopsis
Responded to a report of two rented PWCs involved in a collision at The BASH rental shop. 

Narrative
Initial Information
Sunday, May 3, 2018, at 1900 hours, I received a call from a BASH concessionaire employee that two rental PWC's were in a collision.  The employee informed me that there was significant damage to the two PWCs involved in the accident and he wanted a report done of the incident.  I asked if the people involved were still at the rental shop and he confirmed they were.  I asked if the people involved needed medical attention and he informed me that the male who was hurt was deny medical attention.

Contact
When I arrived at the BASH rental shop, a male had just finished getting his left forearm bandaged by a BASH employee.  I asked if he was involved with the PWC accident and he confirmed he was.  I asked VICTIM if he was okay and he told me he was fine and did not want medical attention.  I asked what had happened to his arm and he told me he had cut it open somehow in the accident.  I explained to VICTIM that having medical personnel come to evaluate his arm and properly bandage it would not cost him anything, but he still denied medical attention.  VICTIM said he was okay with how it was bandaged up by the BASH employee and that his arm did not even hurt.  There was a female nearby VICTIM who was very quiet and seemed timid.  I asked her if she was involved in the accident and she confirmed she was.  I asked if she was hurt and she told me no.  She seemed shaken up by the circumstances, so I offered medical attention again and she denied it. 

Investigation
I asked VICTIM to explain to me what had happened during the PWC accident.  He pointed to the nearby female and said she was operating the PWC and he was on the back of it sitting behind her.  VICTIM explained that water had splashed up into his face and he could not see for a few seconds when they crashed into the other PWC.  I questioned him in regards to who was on the other PWC and he told me his friend.  He explained OPERATOR1 was the one who rented both PWCs.  I asked where he was at since there were only the two of them.  VICTIM explained that OPERATOR1 had walked to go get their vehicle and the rest of the people they were with down on the south beach. 

When they had completed the witness statements, VICTIM asked to speak with me alone and informed me that he was actually the one driving the PWC when the collision occurred.  He explained that he did not have a driver's license and was not on the rental form but SUBJECT was on the PWC while he was operating.  He explained that he did not want SUBJECT to get into any trouble because she was not the one who caused the collision, he was.  VICTIM confirmed he was operating the PWC that had the damage in the front of it.  He explained to me that while he was operating the PWC, water splashed him in the face and then he ran right into the other PWC that was idling in the water, on its starboard side.  VICTIM believed he was traveling at speeds between 35 to 40 mph when he hit the other PWC.   He said he was then thrown off the PWC into the water.  As we waited for OPERATOR1 to come back to the BASH rental shop to work out the details and money owed for the damages due to the accident, I spoke with SUBJECT alone in regards to what had happened.  

SUBJECT told me that VICTIM was operating the PWC but did not see more than that because there was water in her face and she could not remember.  When OPERATOR1 arrived at the rental shop, I had him complete a witness statement.  He explained to me that he and his passengers were in the water when VICTIM ran into his PWC.  I was confused by this statement and asked him to explain to me why he was in the water before there was an accident.  

OPERATOR1 said that he and his passengers were thrown off their PWC due to a large wave. They were all swimming back to the PWC when VICTIM sped toward their PWC in the direction of a "V" and side swiped his PWC. He explained that VICTIM PWC landed on his PWC and then VICTIM was thrown off into the water. I confirmed with OPERATOR1 where SUBJECT was at during the incident, and OPERATOR1 informed me SUBJECT was a passenger on his PWC and was in the water when the accident occurred. At this time, VICTIM heard what OPERATOR1 said and disagreed with him. SUBJECT and OPERATOR1 both told VICTIM that neither of them was on his PWC during the time of the accident. VICTIM comment was, "Oh ya, I must have forgot". I asked OPERATOR1 where all the other people who were involved in the accident and he told me they had all left. He informed me that they were all okay because he had checked them out. I asked the three of them if they knew the names of the other passengers involved in the accident and none of them knew them well enough.

Conclusion
VICTIM will be cited with the failure to take action to avoid a boating accident and speed and proximity. He will be warned for failure to maintain a proper look out and providing false information at a boating accident. He will be served with a certified mailed copy of his citation.

EOR


BARDID: UT-2018-0046
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-04-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: Mantua Reservoir
NearestCityorTown: Mantua
County: Box Elder
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
LOCATION:

On April 28, 2018 about 14:30 hours Vessel 1 was launching on Mantua Reservoir, Box Elder County, UT. 2 occupants were on board. 

INCIDENT:

Weather causing white caps and choppy conditions caused Vessel 1 to capsize. occupant swam to shore with a type 4 flotation device. OPERATOR stayed with the vessel with a life jacket worn. He called 911. Another vessel towed OPERATOR to the boat ramp.

CONCLUSION:

Both Occupants were treated for hypothermia and no injuries were found. I, Officer, arrived about 14:45 hours. I gathered a witness statement and conducted a vessel safety inspection. Violations found were: insufficient approved pfd's on board, no spaces or hyphens between the groupings of the numbers, no sound producing device. A citation was issued for insufficient approved pfd's, and warnings for the other violations.


BARDID: UT-2018-0047
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-06-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:00:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE POWELL
NearestCityorTown: PAGE
County: KANE
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Poor
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentCause1: Restricted vision
DayofWeek: Friday
RedactedNarrative:
At approximately 21:38 hrs I received a report from Glen Canyon Dispatch that there was a 911 call for a damaged vessel near buoy 26. No injuries were reported. The vessel was able to make it back to a boat ramp and trailer the vessel. Due to limited staffing U.S. Park Rangers were not able to contact the vessel prior to trailer.

After leaving the county jail, I, U.S. Park Ranger was able to contact the operator of the vessel. We agreed to meet at the Maverick gas station in Page, Arizona to take the report.

At approximately 00:14 hours I met with the owner and operator of the vessel, at Maverick gas station. He towed his vessel to that location.

He stated that he was operating near Face Canyon with his family on board. He was traveling approximately 20mph. There was a partially submerged rock that he did not see in the water. When he was approximately 10 feet away from the rock he observed it just above the water line directly in front of his bow. He slowed his speed and tried turning to the starboard side. He struck the rock on the port bow causing extensive damage to the hull of the vessel. No one was thrown overboard at the time of the accident. None of the occupants of the vessel had a lifejacket on during the accident. No injuries were reported at the time of the accident. Operator stated that his wife hit her leg on a cooler inside the vessel but appeared to be okay.

Operator was able to reverse off the rock and slowly operate the vessel back to the launch ramp where his trailer and vehicle were located. He stated that he did not go above 10mph during the return.

At Maverick gas station I took photos of the vessel on the trailer (See attached photo log). There was pieces of rock consentient with Lake Powell stuck in the hull of the vessel. Operator also wrote a voluntary statement describing the accident.

I cleared with nothing further.


BARDID: UT-2018-0048
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-07-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:30:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: PINEVIEW RESERVOIR
NearestCityorTown: HUNTSVILLE
County: WEBER
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: -1
CongestedWaters: -1
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Sunday
RedactedNarrative:
NARRATIVE
On 7/22/18 I was notified by a Department of Natural Resources technician that there had been a boat accident at Port Ramp Marina on Pineview waters. The technician stated there were negative injuries and both boats were tied up to the boat slips.

I responded in my patrol truck to Port Ramp Marina and located both involved boats tied in the boat slips on the dock. The wind was blowing and the water was choppy. I made contact with owner of a 2000 RGF 190 Liner series. Subject stated  had tied to the slip and began to walk to his truck and trailer to take the boat off the water. 

Subject stated while he was tied to the slip another boat which was currently in the next slip over on the port side, struck Subject's boat causing fiberglass damage. Subject showed me towards the stern on the port side of the boat damage to the fiberglass. Subject stated the estimated cost to repair the damage was approximately $1,000.00. Subject provided me with his insurance information from State Farm Insurance.  Subject also provided his current registration for the boat. Deputy completed a Utah State Parks and Recreation Vessel inspection.

I made contact with owner of the other boat involved, 1995 Malibu 182 bow. V1 owner stated he had just launched his boat and had parked his truck and trailer while Operator1 White, operator had moved the boat from the trailer to a slip at the dock to wait for V1 owner. V1 owner stated he was standing on the dock when the accident occurred.

I spoke with Operator1. Operator1 was standing in the boat with two female passengers. Operator1 stated there were several other boats in the marina floating and she attempting to drive the boat into a boat slip to wait for V1 owner. Operator1 stated she was trying to move away from another boat floating too close to her and she moved the throttle to reverse which caused the bow to collide with the RGF boat parked in the boat slip. There was minor damage caused to V1 owner's Malibu Boat.

V1 owner was able to provide the current registration for the boat but stated the boat did not have insurance. V1 owner stated he had just got the boat back from the repair shop from getting the engine repaired and wanted to test it out. V1 owner was instructed that due to the boat not having insurance than he would have to load the boat on the trailer. V1 owner complied and Deputy completed a Utah Division of Parks and Recreation Vessel Inspection.

Since Operator1 was the operator of the boat at the time of the collision, I issued a citation to Operator1 for operating a motor boat without insurance 10-18c-302, and failure to stay out of the way of a less maneuverable vessel 10-18-15.1(5).

I completed a Department of Natural Resource Boat Accident Report and attached it to this report.


BARDID: UT-2018-0049
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-07-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:40:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: PINEVIEW RESERVOIR
NearestCityorTown: HUNTSVILLE
County: WEBER
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: 0
HazardousWaters: 0
CongestedWaters: 0
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
NARRATIVE
On 7/7/18 I was at Bluff Marina and notified of a boat accident involving a boat and personal watercraft (PWC). The personal watercraft was rented from Club Red at Bluff Marina and was being towed in to the cove by witness.

I made contact with the PWC operator who rented the 2018 Yamaha from Club Rec. Operator2 stated he was on the PWC approximately 100 yards south from the buoys on the west end of the swim beach at Cemetery Point. Operator2 stated around 1140 hrs he was traveling east from the point at Cemetery Point at full throttle approximately 40 mph. Operator2 stated he saw a boat traveling west on the left side of Operator2 and Operator2 started to veer to his right to move away from the boat on his left.

Operator2 stated he looked right and saw a white boat with yellow trim coming from behind him on his right traveling the same direction as Operator2. Operator2 stated the boat appeared to be tracking across Operator2's line of travel so he immediately turned left and let off the gas. Operator2 stated he collided with the front left side of the boat and went under the water. Operator2 stated he emerged on the other side of the boat. Operator2 stated he was wearing a life jacket and another boater helped him tow the PWC to Club Rec. Operator2 refused medical attention but did have a minor scrape on his right ankle.

I spoke with the owner of Club Rec, who stated the cost of the damage to the Yamaha was approximately $3,500.00. V2 owner stated that Operator2 purchased renters insurance through Club Red so they are covered for the PWC. V2 owner stated they do not cover the damage caused to other boats and that would be covered through Operator2's vehicle insurance. Operator2 provided me with his Geico Auto Insurance and the policy information is listed above in the report.

I made contact with the boat owner, who placed his 2007 Nordic Heat watercraft on his trailer at Bluff Marina to inspect the damage. V1 owner stated he was operating the boat traveling around 10-15 mph eastbound around the point at Cemetery Point. V1 owner stated there was a PWC with a single male rider that was in front of him on his left side of his boat. V1 owner stated the PWC was going too fast and too close to V1 owner. V1 owner stated the male was looking away from V1 owner so V1 owner let off the gas and turned right to try to avoid the PWC. V1 owner stated the passengers on the boat tried to wave their arms and yell to the PWC operator to get his attention.

V1 owner stated the PWC struck the side of his boat on the left side and the PWC and male went under the water and emerged on the right side of the boat. V1 owner stated that he immediately pulled the boat key to turn off the engine so the propeller wouldn't hit the male. V1 owner stated he then couldn't find his keys for the boat so by the time he got the boat on and turned around the male was already being assisted by another boater. V1 owner stated he followed the PWC to Bluff Marina. V1 owner inspected  the boat and noticed several deep scratches underneath the boat beginning on the front left side then diagonal underneath to the right side of the boat. V1 owner stated the cost of damage was approximately $2,000.00. V1 owner completed a written statement form.

Witness stated he was also traveling East around Cemetery Point and witnessed the pWC run into another boat. Witness stated the boat was traveling at a very safe moderate speed in a straight line. Witness stated he did not see where the PWC came from. Witness stated the boat had slowed down less than 10 mph. Witness stated the male and PWC hit the boat went under the boat and came up on the other side. Witness stated the collision impact was probably 10 mph because the boat and PWC only drifted 20-40 feet apart. Witness stated he assisted the male and towed the PWC to Club Rec.

I assisted with the insurance exchange information with V1 owner and Operator2. Operator2 was issued a citation for exceeding a wakeless speed within 150 feet of another vessel. A Utah State Department of Natural Resources Boating Accident Report was completed and attached to the report.


BARDID: UT-2018-0050
State: UT
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2018-07-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:45:00
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE POWELL
NearestCityorTown: BULLFROG
County: KANE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
DayofWeek: Saturday
RedactedNarrative:
On July 28th, 2018 at approximately 9:45am Rangers were dispatched to Bullfrog Marina for a vessel accident on "P" dock at slip. Ranger began the initial investigation at slip and identified both vessels and parties involved.

I contacted OPERATOR1, who told me that she noticed the houseboat "EMERALD BAY" reversing out of slip. EMERALD BAY continued to reverse and hit the stern of the FORGOTTEN CANYON which ripped off the slide and broke the stern port light on the FORGOTTEN CANYON. OPERATOR1 mentioned that EMERALD BAY started moving forward and hit the stern of another houseboat in slip before docking on "H" dock. Ranger  took photos of the slide and of the spotlight damages. I performed a vessel inspection, and OPERATOR1 informed me that no one was injured during the incident. I gave OPERATOR1 a card with my information to send me the vessels current insurance.

I then contacted the owners of the house boat in slip, which didn't want a report on any of their damages.

Ranger and I, then proceeded to talk with the operator of "EMERALD BAY" that was in slip before the incident, now docked at the end of "H" dock. We identified the operator. OPERATOR2 informed me that he started backing out of slip and noticed that the vessel was unable to turn to his port side and something seemed wrong with his starboard engine. OPERATOR2 informed me that he reversed into FORGOTTEN CANYON and saw his vessel rip the slide off EMERALD BAY's stern. OPERATOR2 informed me that he was then able to gain enough control to steer the vessel to where it was docked. OPERATOR2 also informed me that he called the last operator of the vessel and was told that they were having issues with the engines on their last trip and never reported it. I performed a vessel inspection, and OPERATOR2 informed me no one on his vessel was injured. I gave a card to OPERATOR2 to send me the vessels insurance.

From my investigation and observations, EMERALD BAY had prior engine problems that should have been taken care of before leaving the dock. I believe OPERATOR2 did perform his best to avoid an incident but due to mechanical issues was unable to avoid it.


