# ReleasableAccidents

BARDID: LA-2023-0068
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:30:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Bistineau
NearestCityTown: Ringgold
County: Bossier - 8
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
AccidentCause2: Sharp turn
MachineryFailure: Steering
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was traveling south on Ski Road Channel on Lake Bistineau.  Vessel 1 hydraulics went out, and the vessel turned sharp to the port side.  The vessel could not steer or the throttle be pulled back.  

Vessel 1 then impacted a tree on the port side glancing off and coming to rest between two trees.  When vessel 1 came to a sudden stop the passenger in the vessel was ejected over the starboard bow.  The occupants were not wearing PFD's at the time of the incident.


BARDID: LA-2023-0069
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:30:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Vermilion Bay
NearestCityTown: Delcambre
County: Iberia - 23
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Unseen water hazard
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
RedactedNarrative:
On July 1, 2023 at approximately 9:30AM operator was operating his vessel (LA 4528 FK) with 4 other passengers in Vermilion Bay near the mouth of the Avery Canal. As he left the Avery Canal and headed west he struck a submerged object. No injuries were reported from anyone on the vessel. All occupants on the vessel were wearing their PFDs. After he struck the object he trimmed up his motor and his lower unit was gone. His vessel was a remote steering. Alcohol use is not suspected as a factor in this accident.


BARDID: LA-2023-0070
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:56:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Cross Lake
NearestCityTown: Shreveport
County: Caddo
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Other
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
OtherAccidentCause: Passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
CoordinatesConfidence: C
RedactedNarrative:
On the evening of 7/15/2023 on Cross Lake in Caddo Parish, mother of deceased was operating vessel at bare steerage speed and attempting to dock her vessel at their private boathouse. Nine occupants were on board including five small children. 

As Operator was nearing the boathouse, her seven year old daughter (who was sitting behind another passenger on the port side and out of the operator's view) was leaning her head over the port side gunwale. 

Operator yelled Victim's name when she noticed that Victim's head was trapped between the "wake board tower" and the corner of the boathouse. She put the vessel in reverse in order to free Victim. Occupants on board the vessel immediately attempted lifesaving measures and called 911. Victim was transported to the hospital where she was pronounced deceased.


BARDID: LA-2023-0071
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:45:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Red River
NearestCityTown: Bossier City
County: Bossier
WaterConditions: Unknown
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Missing or inadequate navigation aids
AccidentEvent1: Collision with floating object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
On July 30, 2023 at approximately 3:45 PM, operator was operating vessel on the Red River in Bossier Parish.  There were no other passengers on-board.  While cruising South near the center of the channel, Operator1 struck an unmarked dredge pipe that was floating near the surface of the water, causing damage to the bottom of the hull and propeller.  The vessel immediately began taking on water.  Operator1 was able to self rescue by driving his vessel to the East bank of the river, and called 911 for assistance.  The vessel that Operator1 was operating had remote steering and all safety equipment on-board.  Operator1 was not wearing a PFD at the time of the incident.  He also did not have his kill switch attached to his person.  The name of the dredging company that was operating with an unmarked dredge pipe was Coastal Dredging Company, Incorporated.  The contributing factor for this single vessel incident was "collision with floating object."  There were no injuries and no impairment was suspected.


BARDID: LA-2023-0072
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-08-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:45:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Joseph's Harbor Canal
NearestCityTown: Cameron
County: Cameron - 12
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Steering
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 an 18'  fiberglass center console Century powered by a 150 HP Yamaha remote steer, was occupied by two (2) subjects and was being operated on step in Joseph's Harbor canal.   Vessel 1 was maneuvering to make a right turn and travel north towards Joseph's Harbor boat launch.   As Vessel 1 was making a right turn in the canal Vessel 1 experienced machinery failure and loss steering capabilities, causing the vessel to continue to travel towards rock jetties.  

Vessel 1 operator stated that before striking the rocks, he attempted to engage the throttle lever in reverse to avoid striking the rocks, but it was too late and his body struck the steering console of the vessel upon impact.  

Operator of Vessel 1 did not sustain injuries.  Vessel 1 passenger was sitting in front of the steering console facing forward.  As the vessel struck the rocks, her momentum threw her forward and onto the deck of the vessel.  She fell forward in the bottom of the vessel breaking in her left hand.  Vessel 1 went over the rock jetties and became grounded on the other side in marsh grass.  

Vessel 1 passenger refused medical attention from Cameron EMS, the next day it was determined by medical professionals at Our Lady of the Lake ER that her left hand was broken.  PFD's not worn, but available in the vessel.  Kill switch was worn, but not used.  Drugs and alcohol are not considered to be factor in this incident.  the main contributing factor to this incident is steering loss.


BARDID: LA-2023-0073
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:20:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Black River Lake
NearestCityTown: Jonesville
County: Catahoula - 13
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Sharp turn
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
AccidentCause3: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
RedactedNarrative:
On the evening of July 1, 2023 at approximately 1936, LDWF Agents were notified of a possible boating accident that just occurred on Black River Lake, located in Catahoula Parish.  Agents traveled to the location by vessel, arriving at approximately 1944 and found the vessel involved in the accident to already be loaded onto its trailer at the address provided by dispatch.  The victim involved in the accident was onboard the vessel, laying on her back on the rear bench seat of the VIP ski boat.  Several persons were present, to include one volunteer fire fighter, two Catahoula Parish Sheriff's Deputies, and the civilian personnel at the camp.  

Victim had a towel wrapped around her head to stabilize her neck and prevent movement.  One of the civilians present at the camp was a nurse practitioner.  Statements gathered from witnesses indicated that operator (22yo w/m) was operating a 20ft VIP ski boat in Black River Lake located in Catahoula Parish with two passengers on board.  Operator was towing two passengers on two separate tubes.  

Operator initiated a left hand turn with the vessel causing one of the tubers, Victim, to make contact with the vessel's wake, and fall off of the tube into the water.  Upon impact with the water, Victim sustained an injury causing numbness to the lower extremities on the right side of her body, as well as back pain.  Victim as well as witnesses advised that Victim lost consciousness after impacting the water and had to be physically loaded into the vessel for transport to the shore.  Verbal and written statements were collected from witnesses and indicated that Operator was not operating in a careless manner while towing the tubers.  

Corporal performed standardized field sobriety tests on operator.  Operator showed no signs of impairment and displayed no indicators that would lead Agents to believe he was impaired.  Victim was transported by ambulance to an awaiting med-evac helicopter and flown to Rapides Regional Hospital in Alexandria, La for medical treatment.  

Victim was released from the hospital on the following morning with a herniated disc.  

Four type serviceable III PFDs were observed within the vessel.  On July 3, 2023, I interviewed Victim on the phone.  Victim advised she was unable to recollect anything about the accident.


BARDID: LA-2023-0075
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-05-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:34:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: TERREBONNE BAY
NearestCityTown: COCODRIE
County: TERREBONNE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Unseen water hazard
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
RedactedNarrative:
On May 20, 2023 at approximately 6:34 pm, Terrebonne Parish Sheriff's Office (TPSO) Deputy 1 contacted me, Sgt. 2, about a single vessel accident TPSO was responding to in Terrebonne Bay. I put myself and Cpl. 3 in route to conduct the boat accident investigation.  We arrived on scene at the Cocodrie Marina at approximately 8:00pm.  The vessel was towed in by TPSO and arrived at Cocodrie Marina at approximately 8:08 pm.  Once the vessel and occupants were there, I began an investigation into the incident.  The operator, identified as Operator, was engaged in cruising in his vessel with 2 occupants.  While cruising on the North end of Terrebonne Bay and passing around a land mass Operator advised he struck an unseen submerged object that had a hard impact to his engine.  Operator advised that no injuries were sustained as a result of the impact.  EMS services were offered and all  occupants denied the need for medical attention.  After the impact, the engine would no longer operate correctly after impact and they were left stranded.  The vessel is a Ranger 22' center console, remote steering, powered by an Evinrude 250HP engine.  Operator advised that all three occupants were wearing their lifejackets and he had the safety lanyard attached to him.  At the point of first contact, I did not detect any clues that would indicate that drugs or alcohol were involved in the incident.  Likewise, no drug paraphernalia, drugs, or alcohol were noted as present in the vessel at the time of the inspection.  Photos of the vessel and the damage of the vessel were documented at the time of the inspection.  On the keel of the vessel, at port stern, an approximate 4 inch by 1/2 inch tear in the gel coat was noted and photographed.  The damage was in a line running from the bow to stern.  The lower unit of the vessel had multiple points of damage.  The propeller was damaged on all 4 blades.  The prop shaft was locked in place and the skeg displayed multiple points of missing material from impact.  The lower part of the swivel bracket appeared to be broken and while the vessel was in the water a sheen of oil was apparent.


BARDID: LA-2023-0077
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:00:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Cane River
NearestCityTown: Natchitoches
County: Natchitoches - 35
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
RedactedNarrative:
On 7/28/2023, at approximately 2:00 p.m., Operator (Juvenile) was seated, operating vessel 1, a 2021, remote steer, 19 ft Skeeter Bass Boat, on Cane River. Occupant1 (Juvenile), a passenger, was seated to Operator's left in the passenger seat. 

The vessel was traveling through a right hand turn in the river at approximately 25-30 mph towards the city of Natchitoches. The operator steered the vessel to the middle of the channel while traveling through the curve and then began steering the vessel back to the north (right) side of the channel once through the curve. The operator then began manipulating the trim of the vessel just before the vessel was out of the turn and lost partial control of the steering. The vessel then traveled to the far right side of the river and struck a fixed boat house/dock on its starboard side. This caused extensive damage to the driver's console area and separated the top and bottom caps of the vessel. There was structural damage done to the dock from the collision. The vessel was then driven back to the boat ramp where it was loaded back onto the trailer and removed from the water. Both Operator and Occupant1 had only minor injuries from the impact. No medical attention was needed or given. Alcohol and drugs are not suspected to be contributing factors. Operator inexperience and Rules of the Road (#16) are suspected contributing factors. Both Operator and Occupant1 were wearing type 3 PFD's at the time of the incident. Operator does possess a valid boater's education certificate.


BARDID: LA-2023-0078
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:30:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Bayou Teche
NearestCityTown: Jeanerette
County: St.Mary
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Sudden medical condition
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
RedactedNarrative:
On July 28th 2023, at approximately 1:53 P.M., LDWF Agents received a call from St. Mary Sheriff's Department Informing agents of a boat incident in The Bayou Teche in Jeanerette, which is locate in St. Mary parish. Agents responded to the call. While in route agents were notified by St. Mary's sheriffs office that they recovered a deceased subject from the Bayou Teche. 

Upon arrival agents learned that it was a single unregistered non-motorized vessel incident in which the single occupant was found floating, face down near his vessel (approximately 12' flat boat). Agents learned the subject's son and a St. Mary sheriff deputy recovered the body. Deputy informed agents that CPR was administered but was unsuccessful. 

Deputy stated rigor-mortis had not set in and that during CPR air was expelled from the victim’s lungs. Upon speaking with Victim's son, Agents learned that victim suffered from multiple health issues, including a heart condition, diabetes and more recently vertigo. 

Alcohol or drugs are not suspected to be contributing factors. Family members told agents that PFDs were present in the vessel at one point in time. However, no PFDs were observed in the vessel or in the surrounding water. 

The vessel is an unregistered non-motorized approximate 12' flat boat. In my experience, persons who drown usually sink, having little to no buoyancy or air in the lungs. Therefore in my opinion Victim possibly suffered a medical emergency due to his health conditions and later ended up in the water. Victim's health conditions are contributing factors which also possibly led to falling overboard. Family members refused to have an autopsy performed. Agents are currently waiting on Corner's report / cause of death.


BARDID: LA-2023-0079
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:30:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Bayou Long
NearestCityTown: Stephensville
County: St.Martin
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause3: Restricted vision
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On July 29th 2023, at approximately 2:30 P.M., Lt. received a call from LDWF Dispatch informing agents of a boat incident in Bayou Long in Stephenville, which is located in St. Martin Parish. Lt. was the first Agent to respond. Upon arrival, Lt. informed Sergeant and Agent of the incident. Sgt. and Agt. responded to the call at 2:47 P.M. While en route to the incident location, Agt. was directed by Lt. to head to the Amelia Public Boat Launch, located in St. Mary Parish, where the operator and owner of the vessel was going to pick up. Agt. arrived at the Amelia Public Boat Launch at approximately 3:54 P.M. and made contact with the operator. Agt. proceeded to advise Operator3 of his Miranda Rights, which were read from the card, was understood and freely waived. 

       Operator3 informed Agt. that he and three other subjects were attempting to move a house boat along Bayou Long, heading north. The house boat used two vessels, a 19' Remote Steered Skiff (Vessel 3)) which Operator3 was operating at the time of the incident and an unmanned 14' Remote Steered John Boat (Vessel 1). Vessel 1 was located on the starboard side of the house boat and Vessel 3 was located on the port side. The vessels were used as means of propulsion for the house boat. Operator3 claimed that all the people assisting with the transportation of the house boat were inside the house boat. Since he was the only lookout he was unable to properly see anything along the starboard side where Vessel 1 was located. During the process of moving the house boat, Operator3 maneuvered the house boat to starboard but was too far to the right causing Vessel 1 to collide with some pylons and another vessel.

       V1 collided with 3 pylons and continued to run unmanned hitting a stationary 20’ Remote Steered Seaark Vessel (Vessel 2) that was tied in a slip. V1 disconnected, it made a loop and came to a stop in between the motor of V2 and the furthest pylon where it was eventually turned off by a witness.  Operator3 switched vessels after the collision. He switched from Vessel 3 that was operated in the transportation of the house boat to V1 (his boat), which he operated to Bayou Vista Boat launch. 

After the collision, V1 sustained damages including a big dent  approximately 8” long on the bow followed by another dent extending 10 inches with peeled metal on the starboard side, a scratch and dent on the port side extending from 47” to 69”, a broken handle on the stern port side, and a dent and scratch on the starboard side. As well as other small scratches, and dents thought the vessel’s body.  There were damages to 4 pylons including deep gouges on the first pylon and dents on the second, third and fourth pylons.

       As a result of V1 impacting V2, a cleat was ripped off from the dock. This cleat was holding Vessel 2 in place. The impact also caused a dent with paint transfer from V2 to a 4th pylon, V2 sustained some damages including a scratch to the engine midsection, possible problems in the steering mechanism and a small dent caused by V2 hitting a pylon.   

        Since Operator3 was the operator of Vessel 3, it was his responsibility to maintain a proper lookout, something that he failed to do. Lt. who arrived on scene first, took pictures and voluntary statements (see attached voluntary statements). No alcohol or drugs caused or were contributing factors for this incident. PFDs were present in the damaged vessel but were not used. This incident is a 3 vessel, one operator incident. In my opinion and experience, the contributing factors in this boat incident are, no proper lookout and failing to maintain control of vessel. Operator3 violated rules of the road number 20 and 16. Rule number 20, fail to maintain a proper look out and rule 16, which states that all vessels shall be operated at reasonable speeds for given conditions and situations and must be under the complete control of the operator at all times. These violations are prima facie evidence of careless operation. Operator3 was cited for violating Lousiana Revised Statue 34:851.4 -Careless Operation (failing to maintain a proper lookout and fail to maintain complete control of vessel)


BARDID: LA-2023-0080
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:00:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: BAYOU PEROT
NearestCityTown: LAFITTE
County: LAFOURCHE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Missing or inadequate navigation aids
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentCause3: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent3: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On July 2, 2023, at approximately 12:30 AM, I, Sgt., was contacted by LDWF Dispatch and advised of what was believed to be a single vessel accident in Lafourche Parish. I responded, and through the course of my investigation discovered, on July 1, 2023 at approximately 9:00 PM while cruising, vessel (Vessel 1) struck an unlit fixed object. The object was later identified as a wooden platform in Bayou Perot.  

Operator was ejected from the vessel and occupant who had been seated on the floor of the vessel next to the CC Portside and slid forward at impact, but remained with the vessel. 

Operator sustained small abrasions and a laceration to his lip. He was transported by EMS to Thibodaux Regional Medical Center. Occupant sustained several abrasions, and lacerations, the most serious of which was a deep cut to her thigh. She was transported to University Medical Center. No drugs or alcohol are believed to be contributing factors. The vessel was a 19’ fiberglass center console Carolina Skiff remotely powered by a 150 Evinrude. The operator stated he had a type III lifejacket on and the kill lanyard attached.


BARDID: LA-2023-0081
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:45:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: BAYOU FOLSE
NearestCityTown: RACELAND
County: LAFOURCHE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with floating object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Subject was operating vessel on 7/1/2023 when he struck a floating object in Bayou Folse at (N29*41.854' W90*36.836'). The vessel came to stop and the operator noticed 2 cracked welds on the transom of the vessel. The operator contacted the Lafourche Parish Water Patrol and Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries. LDWF Enforcement Agents were notified on 7/2/2023 and responded on 7/2/2023. 

LDWF Enforcement Agents learned the 2 occupants of the vessel were at Thibodaux Regional Hospital for injuries sustained from the incident. Agents went to the hospital to meet with them and identified themselves as LDWF Enforcement Agents upon arrival. 

Subject1 stated she had neck and back pain from when the vessel stuck the floating object causing her to be thrown to the floor of the vessel. Agents started conducting an investigation and at that time believed it did not qualify for a LDWF boat accident. Approximately 3 weeks later the operator obtained a quote for repairs to the vessel and it was over the $500.00 minimum which qualifies it for a boat accident. LDWF Agents went back on 7/24/2023 and are now conducting a full investigation and completing a boat accident report. The vessel is 16' long and constructed of aluminum. The vessel is powered by an unknown horsepower evenrude motor with remote steering. There was no drugs or alcohol involved with the incident and PFD's were not used. The contributing factor's at this time include: 1 Rules of the Road (#20), 2 No proper lookout, and 3 Operator inattention. The incident is currently a collision with floating object incident.


BARDID: LA-2023-0082
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-08-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:30:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE PONTCHARTRAIN
NearestCityTown: NEW ORLEANS
County: Orleans - 36
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On this day, there was a single vessel (V1) boating incident involving a PWC with remote steering and Jet drive motor.  The operator was headed from east to west when he struck a fixed piling.  The piling struck was part of an airport runway marker that extends into Lake Pontchartrain. 

Operator1 stated he was headed back to the Seabrook boat launch at the time of the incident.  Operator also stated that he was on step, going about 45MPH as he tried to go under this structure when he struck the piling.  When Operator struck the piling bow first, he was thrown from the PWC.  At the scene there were no signs of alcohol use, and while Cpl was with Operator at the LCMC Hospital, there were no signs of alcohol use.  Operator sustained a couple injures due to the accident, he had broken his pelvic bone and had a lip laceration to his face.   

It is believed that the primary cause of this incident is the careless operation of the vessel near a fixed object.  This careless act was also a violation of rule number 16 of rules of the road when operating a vessel.  Rule 16 of the Rules of the road for vessel stats that, All vessels shall be operated at reasonable speeds for given conditions and situations and must be under the complete control of the operator at all times.  Being that the object struck, was a fixed object and part of a structure, Operator should have slowed down.  It is also possible that there was a motor malfunction resulting in Fault of Machinery.  When Coast Guard was on scene, the subject was wearing his type III PFD and the kill lanyard was worn.

File number with LDWF is 2023 - 015705


BARDID: LA-2023-0083
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2023-09-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:00:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Bruin
NearestCityTown: St. Jospeh
County: Tensas - 54
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Failure to vent
AccidentCause2: Ignition of spilled fuel or vapor
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
RedactedNarrative:
On September 1st, 2023, at approximately 6:00 p.m., Operator1 was operating his personally owned vessel (vessel 1) at Lake Bruin in Tensas Parish. The vessel is a 21' 6' steering wheel operated Moomba ski boat. Operator1 advised that he had been having problems with the engine during the summer, and he wanted Occupant1 to inspect it while underway. Operator1 stated that the boat engine began running rough and they smelled gas soon after departing his pier. 

Occupant1 opened the engine compartment and found no issues. Occupant1 closed the engine compartment and advised Operator1 to return to the pier. When Operator1 throttled up to return to the pier, there was a loud explosion and fire from the engine compartment. 

Operator1 stated he did not think there was time to extinguish the fire, given the size of the flames already engulfing the vessel. Also, the flames were between Operator1 and his stored fire extinguisher. Operator1 and Occupant1 both grabbed personal flotation devices and jumped overboard into the lake. The two men began to swim to Operator1's pier nearby. 

Another vessel in the area picked them up and transported them to Operator1's pier. Once on the pier, the men observed the burning vessel drift into Operator1's neighbors' pier causing it to catch fire as well, burning approximately 14 boards of the pier deck, along with the support posts and some electrical wiring.  Another vessel nearby stopped and sprayed water onto the burning vessel and pier, extinguishing most of the flames. The Tensas Parish Fire Department responded to the location and extinguished the remaining flames on the vessel and pier. 

         I arrived on scene at approximately 6:52 p.m., and interviewed Operator1 and Occupant1 about the incident. I obtained registration information for the vessel and took photographs of the vessel and the burned pier at this time. There were no injuries reported and no signs of drug or alcohol use. The PFDs worn by both subjects were lying on Operator1 pier when I arrived. The engine compartment of the vessel was completely burned and no legible serial number for the motor was found. I believe lack of ventilation of gas fumes was the primary cause of this incident, though Operator1 stated he turned on the blower before he started the engine. Both parties stated that they could smell an odor of gasoline before the incident occurred.


BARDID: LA-2023-0084
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-09-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:30:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Intracoastal Waterway
NearestCityTown: NEW ORLEANS
County: Orleans - 36
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On September 7th, 2023 at approximately 3:30 PM, vessel 1 was traveling with two POB's, northbound on the ICW in Orleans parish. Vessel 2 (Unknown tug boat) was traveling southbound on ICW. Vessel 2 pushed a large wake in the direction of vessel 1. 

Captain of vessel 1 decreased speed and faced bow in direction of wave. Upon making contact with the wave, both POB's on vessel 1 lost their balance causing both subjects to fall inside vessel. Captain of vessel 1 sustained a small abrasion to his right arm. The main contributing factors of this incident is believed to be (1) force of wake. Neither subject was wearing PFD's during this incident. Drugs and alcohol are not believed to be a factor.


BARDID: LA-2023-0085
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:25:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Venice Marina
NearestCityTown: Venice
County: Plaquemines
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Unknown
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On July 23, 2023 LDWF Agents were notified of a boating incident that occurred at the fuel dock at Venice Marina. No injuries or medical emergencies occurred with the incident. Upon Agents arrival (vessel 1) stated he was paying for his fuel when numerous people approached him stating someone had hit his boat at least twice. 

Vessel 2 was leaving the fuel dock when he accidently backed into boat1. When Operator1 inspected his vessel he noticed two large scratches in the exterior wrap of the vessel as well as the gelcoat. Both men exchanged information and subject stated he had dropped a net overboard and was not paying attention when he went to pick it up and collided with vessel 1. Drugs or alcohol are not a factor in this incident Both vessels were helm steering. No PFD's were being used when the incident occurred.


BARDID: LA-2023-0086
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-09-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:00:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Avery Canal
NearestCityTown: Delcambre
County: Iberia - 23
WaterConditions: Choppy
HazardousWaters: Y
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Hull failure
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On September 5, 2023, at approximately 3:30 pm, Vessel One was cruising in Vermillion Bay in Iberia Parish. Vessel One is a 15' fiberglass hull Bass Boat powered by a remote steer 90 HP outboard engine. Vessel One was leaving Cypremort Point heading north in order to return to the Avery Island public boat launch when both Operator1 and his passenger noticed that Vessel One began taking on water while in Vermillion Bay. 

After entering the Avery Canal and crossing the Intra-Coastal Waterway when the engine shut off and the vessel flooded and began to capsize. Both Operator1 and his passenger donned PFDs and entered the water as Vessel One capsized and floated away southbound. Both occupants were able to safely swim to the nearby shore and call 911. No injuries were sustained and both occupants were rescued at approximately 4:37 p.m. by SGT and CPL. Both occupants were then transported safely to the boat launch. Agents then located Vessel One capsized and floating at the intersection of the Intra-Coastal and the Avery Canal. No drugs or alcohol impairment is suspected to be a contributing factor in this incident.


BARDID: LA-2023-0087
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:00:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: INTERCOASTAL WATERWAY
NearestCityTown: LAROSE
County: LAFOURCHE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
AccidentCause2: Ignition of spilled fuel or vapor
MachineryFailure: Fuel
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was operated. The vessel is 16' long and constructed of fiberglass. The vessel was powered by an ea71 hoursepower subaru motor with remote steering. While underway in the intercoastal waterway(n29*39.053' w90*14.626'), the engine started sputtering. The operator stopped the vessel and cut off the engine. The operator noticed a fuel line ruptured and started dripping fuel onto the exhaust. 

The operator put the 2 passengers off on the bank and the vessel caught fire. The operator used his fire extinguisher to try and extinguish the fire, but was unsuccessful.  The operator tried to throw the fuel tank out of the vessel when it exploded.  

The operator jumped into the water and waited for help. The vessel burned until it sank into the marsh.  Agents found no evidence of impairment, and pfd's and a fire extinguisher were used. The contributing factor's at this time include: 1 fault of machinery, 2 ignition of spilled fuel or vapor, and 3 fault of equipment. The incident is currently a fire/explosion(fuel) incident.


BARDID: LA-2023-0089
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-08-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 07:00:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Upper Grand River
NearestCityTown: Plaqumine
County: Iberville - 24
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Collision with fixed object
RedactedNarrative:
On 8/13/2023 Vessel 1, a 21' 10" Bullet Bass Boat bearing Louisiana registration powered by a 300HP Mercury Outboard and remote steering, was traveling westbound on step in Upper Grand River near Pat's Bay in Iberville Parish. For reasons still under investigation, the operator lost control of the vessel and collided with the bank and trees on the south side of the main channel of Upper Grand River. The vessel was grounded on the bank and had significant damage to the bow and port side from the collision. 

The only person onboard sustained non-life-threatening injuries including abrasions and cuts on his face, arms and legs as well as a broken nose. He was transported by private vehicle to the hospital for treatment. Initial investigation provides that he was wearing a type 3 PFD and kill switch attached to the PFD at the time of the incident. Based on preliminary statements and observations contributing factors to this incident are (1) Excessive Speed, (2) Careless or Reckless Operation, and (3) Rules of the Road #16 (All vessels shall be operated at reasonable speeds for given conditions and situations and must be under the complete control of the operator at all times.)

This incident is under further investigation.


BARDID: LA-2023-0091
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-09-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:15:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE PONTCHARTRAIN
NearestCityTown: NEW ORLEANS
County: Orleans - 36
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent3: Person departed vessel
RedactedNarrative:
A 2017, 11.5 foot Sea Doo PWC was traveling south bound between the two spans of the Causeway Bridges at speed estimated by the operator as around 20mph. Operator states he was traveling behind approximately 20-30 feet and slightly to the right of another jet ski when that PWC made a quick and unexpected turn to the right towards the south bound span to travel under it, putting that vessel directly in his path. 

Operator stated that he immediately turned right to avoid collision with the other vessel and ran into one of the bridge pilings at a speed he estimated around 15mph. The PWC incurred damage to the bow area fiberglass, and broke the handle bars from the impact, taking on water and eventually sank with just the bow above water. Operator stated that neither he or the passenger were initially ejected from the PWC but disembarked when it began taking on water.

Operator and passenger were both checked by East Jefferson Hospital EMT's on scene and refused transport or treatment. Neither subject displayed any obvious signs of injury, but occupant  did say that she experienced some back pain. Both subjects were wearing PFD's at the time of  incident.  Drugs or alcohol are not suspected of causing or contributing to the incident. PWC utilized handle bar type remote steering.


BARDID: LA-2023-0092
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-09-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 08:45:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Black Bayou
NearestCityTown: Hackberry
County: Cameron - 12
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Unseen water hazard
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On 10/04/2023, LDWF Agents were patrolling Black Bayou in Cameron parish, when they observed a subject operating a vessel on Sabine National Wildlife Refuge.  Agents stopped the subject to conduct a boating safety inspection.  After the inspection, the operator reported a boating incident.  Operator advised that he struck an unknown submerged object on 09/29/23 on Black Bayou further north from our location of the stop.  Operator brought Agents to the location of the alleged incident.  Agents did not observe any fixed objects. 

Operator advised that on 09/29/23 he was operating a 17' homemade skiff powered by a 70 HP Suzuki tiller handle outboard on Black Bayou.   Operator of   V1advised that he was traveling north on Black Bayou (public navigable waterway) in Cameron Parish, when he struck the submerged object near the east bank.  Operator advised that he did not see the object before or after the incident.  During the incident, operator advised that his passenger was forced forward onto the bottom of the vessel near the bow.  Passenger sustained bruises and lacerations, however did not seek medical attention.  Operator advised that he called the office on 09/29/23, but received no answer.  Agents went to the house of the operator where V1 was located and took pictures of the vessel/damaged lower unit.  No alcohol/drugs involved.  PFD's not used.  Kill switch not used.  Operator advised his lower unit sustained the only damage and it was in excess of $500.00


BARDID: LA-2023-0093
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-09-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 05:20:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Charenton Drainage Canal
NearestCityTown: Baldwin
County: St.Mary
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentCause3: Missing or inadequate navigation aids
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentEvent3: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
On 09-04-2023 at approximately 5:44 A.M, Sgt. received a call from dispatch informing him of a vessel incident in which a vessel collided with a barge on the Charenton Drainage and Navigation Canal located in St. Mary Parish. 

Sgt. informed Agt. of the incident and they both responded. Sgt. contacted St. Mary Sheriff’s department regarding the incident to which they also responded, informing Sgt. that they had a vessel on the water already. 

Sgt. arrived on scene with the deputies. Once they made contact with the subjects, the subjects informed Sgt. and the Sheriff Deputies that they were taking in water and were advised by the coast guard to start navigating back to the Baldwin Boat Launch. 

With the subject's consent, Sgt. navigated the damaged vessel (a remote steered vessel) to Baldwin Boat launch were Agt. meet with Sgt.. The passengers informed the agents that they were heading out to fish that morning and while they navigated south on the Charenton Drainage & Navigation Canal they had collided with a barge that they were not able to see in time. 

Operator vessel sustained severe damage to the bow of the vessel, resulting in a raised up crushed bow. The vessel also sustained a broken windshield, a loosened console, broken trolling motor, broken electrical cables, broken rubber molding on the starboard side, and a torn hull on the front bow. 

Occupant was voluntarily transported to Oschner Hospital in Morgan City. Operator refused medical attention at that time, and later drove himself to Opelousas South Campus ER. Both passengers sustained injuries, Operator sustained 4 broken ribs and a scrape to the left leg. Occupant sustained a scraped arm and was left with back pain and rib pain, as a result of the collision.  

Agents and Sheriff Deputies then navigated south on the Charenton Drainage and Navigation Canal to the area where the incident took place. Agents identified the barge involved in the incident with ID number DM78-4 and learned from a caretaker on scene that the barge was managed by Central Boat Rentals. Agents documented the crash scene. During the initial approach to the scene agents and deputies did not observed any kind of lights indicating the position of any of the barges including barge DM78-4. 

Agents found barge DM78-4 to be blocking almost half the waterway in a position that obstructed the free navigation of vessels. After agents finished inspecting the scene they turned back heading north. Agents noticed two small flashlights placed on top of the most northernly barge. These flashlights were not noticed before by neither the agents nor the deputies. 

Agent believes that these small flashlights were placed there by someone not identified, while the agents and deputies were inspecting the crash scene. This flashlights are very unlikely to have lasted on all night, therefore the reasoning behind Agent belieF that they were placed there after the crash. This incident is a collision with a fixed object type of incident. 

Alcohol and drugs are not considered to be contributing factors in this incident. Personal flotation devices were available on the vessel but were not used. Agents determined that the contributing factors to be violation of Rules of The road (16 & 20), Operator inattention and blocked waterway. During the investigation of this incident, it was found that Operator violated rules of the road 20 (fail to maintain proper lookout) and rule 16 (failure to maintain proper speed for given conditions). Violation of these rules are prima facie of careless or wreck less operation. It is also noted that the barge company, Central Boat Rentals contributed to the incident by failing to maintain Barge DM78-4 from obstructing the waterway and failing to keep proper light signals on the barge.


BARDID: LA-2023-0094
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-09-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:00:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Tickfaw River
NearestCityTown: Killian
County: Livingston
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Ignition of spilled fuel or vapor
AccidentCause2: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
RedactedNarrative:
on 9-29-2023, at approximately 8:36pm, I Cpl., was contacted by LDWF Communications of a boat fire on the Tickfaw River near Boopaloo's Bar and Grill. The Killian volunteer fire department had already been contacted and was on scene. I arrived on scene at approximately 9:15pm and made contact with the owner of the vessel. Owner had his vessel moored at Boopaloo's Bar and Grill on the Tickfaw River in Livingston Parish. He proceeded to start the ignition. Upon starting, the engine compartment blew a flame into the air through the hole where the skier pole would have been located. Owner shut the ignition off and proceeded to get his wife and 2 children off the boat and used his fire extinguisher to quickly extinguish the fire from the engine compartment. He then disconnected the batteries. After a few short minutes, the fire reignited. He then untied his vessel and pushed it off the dock at Boopaloo's to limit anymore property damage. The Killian volunteer fire department arrived on scene and completely extinguished the fire.


BARDID: LA-2023-0095
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-10-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:00:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Darbonne
NearestCityTown: Farmerville
County: Union - 56
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Sharp turn
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
RedactedNarrative:
On Monday, October 2, 2023 at approximately 12:15 p.m., I, Cpl., was notified of a boating accident on Lake Darbonne in Union Parish. At approximately 3:15 p.m., I made contact with Operator at his residence. Operator stated he was traveling east in the channel when he took his hand off the throttle handle and the vessel hit a small wave and took a sharp left hand turn ejecting Operator into the water. Operator was operating a Stick Steering vessel. Operator was not wearing his kill lanyard. The vessel began going around in circles at half throttle. Operator's vessel struck him two times while he was trying to swim away. A subject in a vessel nearby heard him yelling for help and came to rescue him from out of the water.

            Union Parish Sheriffs Office and (EMS) arrived on scene after he was picked up by the other vessel. When Union Parish Deputies arrived on scene with a patrol vessel they were able to secure Operator's vessel. When they arrived the vessel was still going around in circles at a lower rate of throttle at this time. Operator refused treatment from EMS at the scene. Operator later received medical care at the Bernice Hospital for two broken bones in his foot.

            Operator was wearing his life jacket when he was thrown from his vessel. Operator did not have his kill switch lanyard hooked to his person. There was one injury to Operator from the boating accident. No suspected alcohol use. The causing factor for the boating accident was the vessel taking a sharp turn throwing him outside the vessel. No visible damage to the vessel was observed.


BARDID: LA-2023-0096
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-05-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 08:00:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: WEST TIMBALIER BAY
NearestCityTown: COCODRIE
County: TERREBONNE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Grounding
RedactedNarrative:
On May 23, 2023, Region 6 Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) Enforcement Agents Sgt. 1 and Agt. 2 were on patrol in Lake Mechant (Terrebonne). At approximately 8:30am, Agents were notified by Terrebonne Parish Sheriff’s Office (TPSO) about a boat accident in Timbalier Bay. Agents immediately headed to LUMCON in Cocodrie by vessel to meet up with Deputy 3. Agents boarded TPSO's vessel, and left LUMCON at approximately 9:30am. LDWF Agents and TPSO arrived on scene at approximately 10:00am. Agent 2 made contact with the three individuals that were on board the vessel and asked if they were injured or needed medical attention. The subjects replied that no one was injured and no medical attention was needed. The operator was identified as Operator, and his passengers were identified as Passengers 1 and 2. While Agent 2 asked the individuals what happened, Sgt. 1 piloted his drone to identify the submerged pilings at N29 04.007 W90 28.694. The damage to the vessel was not visible. The vessel was left on scene due to the circumstances. The three subjects were transported from the scene on the TPSO water patrol vessel back to their camp in Dulac.

Vessel is a 23' Parker fiberglass center console bay boat equipped with a 225hp Evinrude. Vessel will be identified throughout the rest of this report as V1. V1 was equipped with three type 3 PFD's, one type 4 throwable, and 1 fire extinguisher. 

Operator boating incident report and witness statements were dropped off with subjects and received back within one business day. According to the operator and occupants, on May 23, 2023 at approximately 8:00am, V1 headed North through a pass on West Timbalier Island from the Gulf of Mexico. V1 traveled at approximately 20mph when they struck a submerged object. After impact, V1 reduced speed to idle and noticed water coming into the hull from the battery compartment. V1 circled back towards the beach and idled until it was grounded in 1-3 feet of water to avoid flooding of the vessel. Operator immediately called his insurance company for further guidance. The insurance company notified Terrebonne Parish Sheriff's Office and Louisiana Department of Wildlife & Fisheries. 

On Sunday, June 4, 2023, SeaTow recovered V1 from West Timbalier Island.  V1 was towed back to Leeville boat launch where Operator loaded it onto his trailer. Operator trailered the vessel back to his residence where he took pictures of the damages and sent to Agent 2. The damage is on the bottom right side of the hull close to the keel. The gouge measured 50 inches long by 3 inches wide (see photo log). 

The contributing factors in this incident were 1) operator inattention and 2) collision with submerged object. Agents do not believe drugs or alcohol to be a contributing factor in this incident.


BARDID: LA-2023-0097
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-09-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 23:00:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Darbonne Bayou
NearestCityTown: West Monroe
County: Ouachita - 37
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
RedactedNarrative:
On October 4, 2023 Sgt. and I, Cpl., received a complaint of a boating accident that had not been previously reported. The complainant stated that his dock was struck by a pontoon boat on the night of September 4, 2023. The complainant provided a name and contact information of the operator of the vessel that struck his dock. On October 4, 2023, Sgt. and I made contact with Operator to question him about the boat accident. Operator was advised of his Miranda Rights, and he stated he understood his rights. Operator admitted that he was operating the vessel when it struck the dock. Operator also admitted that he had been drinking the evening that he crashed his vessel into the stationary dock. Operator provided the following as an account of the accident. 
            On the night of September 4, 2023 at approximately 11:00pm, Operator was operating a Veranda pontoon boat on the Ouachita River. The pontoon boat is a 26'8" vessel powered by a Yamaha VMAX 250. Operator exited the Ouachita River and turned west to enter the mouth of Darbonne Bayou. Near the mouth of Darbonne Bayou, Operator claims he struck something with his vessel. The impact caused a loss of steering capabilities. The loss of steering caused the vessel to hit a dock located on the north bank of Darbonne Bayou. Operator stated that he did not report the accident because he planned on taking care of all the damages himself, however, after a month he had not taken care of any damages he caused. After an investigation and photographing the vessel operated by Operator, I could not verify his claim that he hit an object causing him to lose steering capabilities. The only damage to the vessel appeared to be from the impact with the dock.


BARDID: LA-2023-0100
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-10-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:30:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Tchefuncte River
NearestCityTown: Madisonville
County: St. Tammany
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On Sunday, October 1, 2023, at approximately 2:30PM a single vessel boating incident occurred at the mouth of the mouth of the Tchefuncte River and Lake Pontchartrain. Vessel 1 (V1), was a sailboat occupied by two adults. V1 was attempting to return to a boat launch, located in Madisonville, after a day on a Lake Pontchartrain. The return channel from Lake Pontchartrain requires a vessel to navigate north, then east along the shoreline, and back north into the mouth of the Tchefuncte River. V1 was cruising north and made the easterly turn along the shoreline toward the mouth of the Tchefuncte River. The easterly wind conditions increased and capsized the vessel. The operator and the passenger were wearing PFD's at the time to the incident, however the operator's PFD came off after the vessel capsized. A concerned citizen rescued the two individuals and called 911. Contributing factors include a forceful gust of wind, as the vessel sailed upwind, which lifted and capsized the vessel. Alcohol is not considered a factor in this incident. No citations were issued at the time of incident investigation.


BARDID: LA-2023-0101
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-10-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:45:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Tchefuncte River
NearestCityTown: Madisonville
County: St. Tammany
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Missing or inadequate navigation aids
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
RedactedNarrative:
At approximately 1:45 p.m. on October 15, 2023, Operator was trying to anchor his vessel "Rio" (Doc# 1107495) on the west side of the Tchefuncte River as he was putting the vessel in reverse, he struck a submerged object with the port motor's prop. 

He noticed a vibration in the port engine, so he shut that engine down and limped to a slip at Marina Del Ray. Operator went to the engine hole and observed that the port transmission coupling was separated, and the casting was cracked. He then called a diver out to assess the damage where he found that the shaft was bent, and the hull was not taking on water at this time. 

The boat will need to be picked up to assess the damage further which Operator is planning on doing in the near future. Operator nor his passenger used PFD's in this accident. This vessel was equipped with hydraulic steering. In this investigators opinion this accident was unavoidable seeing that the submerged object is not marked, contributing factors in this accident is collision with a submerged object.


BARDID: LA-2023-0102
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-10-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 08:30:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: vermillion bay
NearestCityTown: Franklin
County: St.Mary
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause3: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Electrical
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Grounding
RedactedNarrative:
On October 30th 2023 at approximately 8:47 A.M., Sergeant received a call from the 911 Dispatch informing him of a boat incident in which a vessel was taking on water at Vermilion Bay near Cypremort Point in St. Mary Parish. Agt. responded to the incident and coordinated with the St. Mary Sheriff's Office who was also responding. Upon arriving at the Quintana Canal Boat Launch Agt. identified the operator of the vessel (a remote steer) as Operator (see image 1 of photograph log). Operator informed Agt. that he was asked by an unidentified person to assist a kayaker that was out of control due to the kayak's fin drive being broken and the strong winds and waves overpowering the kayak. 

Operator and his son (a Juvenile) tried to help the kayak operator with their vessel by trying to tow Subject1's kayak to a safe area. Operator claimed that while trying to assist Subject1 a wave came over the stern of the boat and into the electrical system. He stated that after the first initial wave the boat shut off and they started taking on water. The waves which were noted by Agt. upon arrival, were high (approximately 2 to 3 feet) with strong winds (approximately 15 to 20 mph) over the area (see images 3 and 4 of photograph log). Operator claimed that after the initial wave shut the electric system off, the following waves started filling the stern of the boat with water until they (Operator, his son, and Subject1) were forced to evacuate the vessels.

         Agt. then made contact with Subject1, who stated that his fin drive on his kayak had broken and was unable to control his kayak due to the inclement weather. Subject1 stated that an unidentified kayaker had tried to help him but was unable to assist him. The unknown kayaker then went to search for help and asked Operator for assistance. That's when Operator tried to help and the flooding of the vessel occurred. Operator and his son as well as Subject1 put on life jackets and were able to get on shore and were later assisted by the St. Mary Sheriff's Office Deputies who with their vessel brought them to the boat launch. It is to be noted that no one claimed to be injured or required medical attention. After taking their statements (see attached statements) Subject1 and Agt. proceeded to search for the flooded vessel.

        Once the vessel was found Agt. was able to observe how the vessel was partially grounded with the back of the stern flooded and waves coming up and over the stern. Agt. documented the necessary information. Subject1 asked Agt. for assistance pulling his Kayak to his truck. The Kayak was located next to the shore a few feet next to Operator's vessel. Agt. then assisted Subject1 by pulling his kayak and then helping him load in into his truck. During this process Agt. observed how the fin system in Subject1's kayak was broken. During the investigation Agt. talked to a technician at Iberia Outboard & Marine Services, the place where Operator's vessel was brought to after being taken out of the water. The technician informed Agt. that Operator's vessel was a four stroke motor and that if water gets in the battery terminals it can cause the electric system to shut off and therefore the boat to shut off. This information validated Operator's statement that a wave had come over the stern and had sh ut off the electric system. 

        Drugs and or alcohol are not contributing factors of this incident. Personal flotation devices were present and used in both the vessel and the Kayak. Contributing factors to this incident are attributed to the Weather (high waves approximately 2 to 3 feet and strong winds 15 to 20 mph), Failure of Machinery (electric System shutting off after water contacted the battery terminals), and Operator Inexperience. Agt. believes Operator was lacking navigational experience in those weather conditions (high waves and strong winds). The type of incident is considered to be a flooding type of incident with eventual grounding. No further enforcement action was deemed necessary.


BARDID: LA-2023-0103
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-09-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:00:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW near Jack Miller's Launch
NearestCityTown: Plaquemine
County: Iberville - 24
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Drug
AccidentCause3: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent3: Collision with fixed object
RedactedNarrative:
At approximately 1900 I received a call from Iberville S.O. concerning a boating accident. The passenger had been transported to Ochsner Hospital in Plaquemine. The operator had fled the scene, presumable because of active warrants. I interviewed victim at the hospital where he stated the 2 had been drinking all day, while boating. He also stated that the remotely steered vessel had struck a submerged object ejecting both. The vessel then careened into a tree. Neither were wearing a PFD, nor was the kill switch in use. No PFDs were observed in the vessel. From the interview with victim, it is believed alcohol and drugs were a major contributing factor.


BARDID: LA-2023-0106
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-10-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:30:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Vernon Lake
NearestCityTown: Anacoco
County: Vernon
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
On 10/28/2023 at approximately 7:20 PM, I Agent was informed of a boating incident that resulted in property damage to a vessel on Vernon Lake. The Vernon Parish Sheriff’s Office informed me that the complainant wished to report the incident. The deputy taking the call, said Subject1 called 911 who in turn referred Subject1 to the Sheriff’s Office. Subject1 stated that he had secured the vessel to a pier at a public boat launch at Bivens Landing on Vernon Lake. I proceeded to Bivens Landing expecting Subject1 to be at the scene. Upon my arrival at approximately 8:05 PM, I photographed the vessel identified as a 1994 CAJUN, a fiberglass vessel 17.8 feet in length. The vessel appeared to have been stripped of all accessories, including the trolling motor and its 12-volt marine batteries. I immediately contacted Subject1 by the telephone number given to me by the VPSO. Subject1 answered and said that he was already at home and that he had taken all the equipment including two Lowrance Elite-5 sonar devices with him.  

Subject1 told me that when his vessel struck an unknown object in a marked boat lane, he had been thrown into the remote steering console and as a result he had three broken ribs on his left ribcage and had a dislocated left shoulder.  I asked Subject1 which hospital had treated him and Subject1 said that he had not actually been to a hospital and had not received any medical attention from anyone and that he had already put his shoulder back in place. 

I had already observed the remote steering and knew that there was no noticeable damage, blood or anything abnormal about the remote steering unit. The key switch was in the off position, but I noted that the shifter had been left in the forward position. I informed Subject1 that I needed to initiate the investigation and he said I could come to his residence. 

      Upon arriving at Subject1’s residence at approximately 8:50 PM, I offered to get medical assistance for him and he refused any medical treatment. I took photographs of Subject1's injuries. I was unable to see any bruises are wounds of the affected area that Subject1 said was injured and Subject1 said he was always having to put his left shoulder back in place. 

I asked Subject1 what had happened and he was unable to explain what part of the lake he was on when the incident occurred. Subject1 stated that he had been operating the vessel on Vernon Lake during the afternoon hours on October 28, 2023. He could not tell me specifically where he was at on the lake, had trouble determining what time the incident occurred, the name of his passenger that was with him at the time of the incident, his passenger’s address or the passenger’s phone number. 

Subject1 said that he was operating his vessel in a marked boat lane-not sure which one, and was traveling approximately 30 MPH, and then stuck  a submerged object which resulted in the vessel slowing abruptly.  Subject1 indicated that the vessel began taking on water, and he told his passenger to put on a life jacket (PFD) as he feared his boat would sink. 

Subject1 said that he continued operating the vessel but it would not plane out as it was taking on water. Subject1 stated that another boater idled up beside him and offered assistance. Subject1 said that he wished to return to the Vernon Lake Spillway with the vessel where he had launched, but instead he drove the boat to Bivens Landing where he secured it to a pier beside the boat ramp. 

Subject1 said he left Vernon Lake Spillway with his vehicle and the boat trailer, went home, then came back to Bivens Landing, stripped the boat of all accessories, wading in waist deep water to remove the 12 volt marine batteries, and even removed the trolling motor from a fixed mount. After this, Subject1 left the boat tied to the pier and returned home. It was at this time that Subject1 stopped by Cricket wireless at approximately 6:30 PM and replaced his cellphone that he lost during the incident. After replacing the phone Subject1 said he contacted the VPSO. I had a difficult time retrieving this information, as Subject1 rambled and could not accurately describe what happened. I contacted Agent to assist me and after he arrived I asked Subject1 if he would write a statement about the incident. At first he agreed, but when I cautioned him about his Constitutional Rights per the Miranda Warning, he refused to write a statement and said he wanted a lawyer.  However, I had been able to look at the registration for the boat and the insurance coverage through Progressive before Subject1 became uncooperative. 

 The following day I spoke with the passenger.  He reported no injuries and stated that Subject1 was operating the vessel on Vernon Lake at approximately 12:30 PM. He said the vessel struck an object and started taking on water. Subject1 drove the vessel to Bivens Landing and stripped it of all accessories. 

 
  On October 30th BELGARDS TOWING, recovered the vessel.  Agents photographed the property damage described as 4 x 10 inch hole through the center of the hull of Subject1’s vessel. The vessel was transported to Belgards Towing where an adjuster for Progressive Insurance deemed the vessel a total loss. 

  In conclusion of the matter, I Agent believe that the primary cause for this incident is that Subject1 struck a stump in the boat road. While this might be unavoidable, Subject1 should have realized that due to excessive drought the lake elevation was at 242 feet msl. When these boat roads were cut by the Vernon Parish Police Jury the lake level would have been at the top of the pool level which is 245 msl. With the lake at approximately 3 feet lower than usual, this can result in stumps normally missed by boaters, becoming a hazard. If Subject1 would have been attentive to the low water conditions he would have idled and not operated the vessel at a speed that he did, which resulted in the property damage to the boat’s hull. His inexperience with the lake and inexperience operating the vessel contributed to the incident.


BARDID: LA-2023-0107
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-10-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:10:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Darbonne
NearestCityTown: Farmerville
County: Union
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Restricted vision
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
RedactedNarrative:
On October 22, 2023 at approximately 2:10 p.m., I, Cpl. received a call from the Union Parish Sheriffs Office of a fatality boating accident on Lake Darbonne. At approximately 2:30 p.m. I arrived on scene with several deputies from the Sheriff's Office. Deputy and myself launched my boat and arrived on scene of the accident.

              I made contact with the operator and identified myself as a Louisiana Wildlife Enforcement Agent. I advised Operator of his Maranda Warning and he stated he understood. Operator said he was traveling north in the boat channel, when his vessel struck a green channel marker on the left side of his vessel. 

His passenger was ejected from the vessel and his head struck the channel marker. Operator was thrown into the bottom of his vessel but did not receive any injuries. Operator vessel was a console steering boat. Union Parish S.O. and I secured Operator and the vessel for evidence collection and statements. No alcohol/drug use was detected or a determining factor of the accident. Evidence and statements were collected.

The Union Parish S.O. contacted the Macoupin County Sheriff’s Office in Illinois who made contact with the family of the deceased. Deputy Coroner arrived on scene and pronounced victim as deceased. Pafford ambulance transported him to the morgue for an autopsy. 

              After completing my investigation it was determined that the leading cause of the accident was restricted vision of the operator. At the time of the accident there was two fishing chairs and a fishing graph on the front deck of Operator vessel that restricted his vision. Both the operator and passenger were wearing their life jackets at the time of the accident. The speed of Operator vessel was also a factor and caused extensive damage to the vessel. Operator was cited for Reckless Operation of a Watercraft and released.


BARDID: LA-2023-0108
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-11-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 04:50:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Calumet Cut
NearestCityTown: Patterson
County: St.Mary
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Inadequate onboard navigation lights
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentCause3: People on gunwale, bow, or transom
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On November 18th, 2023 at 5:00 A.M., Sgt. received a call via mobile radio from LDWF Dispatch regarding a boating incident that occurred in St. Mary parish. Sgt. then contacted the St. Mary parish Sheriff’s office water patrol where they stated they were in route with a vessel. Sgt. met the deputies at the Calumet Cut boat launch where Acadian Ambulance was also on scene. Sgt., the Deputies, and a paramedic made their way to the incident location where two vessels were moored on the bank. Upon making contact, Sgt. read the operators their rights as per Miranda where they stated they fully understood and intelligently waived. 

The operator of vessel 1 (V1) stated he was traveling south in the Calumet Cut operating his vessel (a 15 foot tiller handle outboard) on the left side of the waterway when the collision occurred. Operator1 stated he did not have his navigation lights on at the time of the incident but turned them on after the collision. 

The operator of vessel 2 (V2) (a 17 foot tiller handle outboard stated he was traveling north going back to the boat launch due to his vessel taking on water from a pinhole in the vessel. His passengers were riding on the bow of the vessel when the impact occurred. Operator2 stated he did not see V1 due to the fog and V1 did not have the required navigation lights on. 

Once the impact occurred, Subject1 was ejected from the vessel, and Subject2 hit his left eye on the light bar which was located on the bow of the vessel. Both operators stated they could operate their vessels safely back to the boat launch. Sgt., the deputies, and paramedics loaded the injured subjects into the Sheriff’s vessel and all started making their way back to the launch. Once at the launch, the two injured subjects stated they did not want to go to the hospital but received care from the paramedics (see attached statements). No Personal Flotation Devices were worn during this incident, alcohol and/or drugs were also not contributing factors in this incident. 

             During the investigation, Sgt. learned the collision occurred due to V1 operating his vessel on the wrong side of the waterway without navigation lights. V1 attempted to cross V2 at a 45° angle resulting in V2 impacting V1 on the starboard bow. Initial impact occurred when V2’s bow impacted V1 on the starboard side right above the registration decals. This impact caused V1’s starboard side to be dented in, lifting the gunwale from the side, and pushing the starboard front deck downward (see attached photos 9-12). V2 sustained damages to the point of the bow bending it downward and the front deck is separated from the starboard side bending outward. The damages to both vessels are consistent with the statements taken when Sgt. arrived on scene. 

              Once the investigation was completed, Sgt. determined the primary contributing factors in this incident is directly related to rules of the road for vessels number 13, “In a narrow channel, vessel will keep to the right of mid-channel”, number 16, “All vessels shall be operated at reasonable speeds for given conditions and situations and must be under the complete control of the operator at all times”, and number 20, “Operator shall maintain a proper lookout.” 

Any violation of Rules of the Road for vessels shall be prima facie evidence of careless or reckless operation. Additionally, in Louisiana, all vessels shall utilize proper navigation lights from official sunset to sunrise. Official sunrise was 7:24 A.M. this incident occurred at 4:30 A.M. and V1 did not display any of the required navigation lights. V1 also was not wearing the required PFD while operating his vessel. A PFD is required by all occupants on board a vessel that is less than 16’ in length operated by a tiller outboard. In Louisiana no passenger is allowed to stand, sit, or lay on the gunwale, bow, and/or transom of a vessel while it is underway. The passengers onboard V2 were sitting on the bow of the vessel when the collision occurred. Their injuries could have been prevented if they were riding in the boat as required. The operator of V1 was cited criminally for RS 34:851.4 Careless Operation. Additionally, Operator1 was cited civilly for RS 34:851.24 Improper running lights and RS 34:851.24 Fail to comply with PFD requirements less than 16’ tiller outboard. The operator of V2 was cited criminally for RS 34:851.4 Careless Operation. Additionally, Operator2 was cited civilly for RS 34:851.13 Improperly riding on deck or gunwales. See attached offence reports.


BARDID: LA-2023-0110
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-11-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:35:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Mermentau River
NearestCityTown: Lake Arthur
County: Cameron - 12
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentCause3: Sharp turn
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
RedactedNarrative:
On November 23, 2023 at approximately 5:35 P.M., (17' Havoc, powered by a 115 HP Mercury) was seen unoccupied doing circles south of Lake Arthur in Mermentau River in Cameron Parish.  Cameron Parish Sheriff's Office and Agents responded.  V1 spun in circles for over an hour, striking a stationary barge, debris and rocks.  CPSO was able to push the vessel a ground and pull the kill switch to stop the vessel.  No body was found in or near V1.

The family was contacted and they advised he was out hunting utilizing that boat.  During the investigation, we were able to obtain video footage from a nearby business (B & J Corporation) showing V1 operating with navigation lights at approximately 5:35 PM after sunset on Mermentau River.  The vessel was headed northeast on Mermentau River and appeared to have maneuvered extremely hard to starboard side near the bank.  After this abrupt maneuver, the vessel then circled for over an hour until Deputy was able to stop it.  

LDWF, Cameron Parish Sheriff's Office, Welsh PD and Calcasieu Parish Sherriff's office initiated a search.  On 12/05/2023 Operator's deceased body was found floating against the bank at 11:25 AM by a civilian.

Based on the evidence, Operator was operating at a high rate of speed after sunset near the north side of the bank of the Mermentau river  (not to the respective right), when he maneuvered abruptly to starboard side in an attempt to change his direction of travel.  Operator's maneuver at this high rate of speed and force, caused him to be ejected into the water.  Operator was not wearing his PFD and or kill-switch lanyard.  Coroner classified  Operator's cause of death as a drowning.


BARDID: LA-2023-0112
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-11-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:25:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Wham Brake
NearestCityTown: Monroe
County: Ouachita
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On November 10, 2023 at approximately 11:50 a.m. I, Sgt. was contacted by LDWF dispatch and notified of a boating accident on Wham Brake (Russell Sage WMA) in Ouachita Parish. Once on scene I secured the vessel, took photos and collected evidence. Operator and his five year old son were transported by ambulance to St. Francis Medical Center. Operator's vessel was released to his friend.

I then made contact with Operator at the St. Francis Medical Center. Operator advised he and his five year old son went to Wham Brake to go scout for ducks.  While traveling down the canal, his motor struck a submerged object which caused the vessel to take a hard left turn.  The vessel hit the bank of the canal and jumped a stump that was at the waters edge.  The vessel came to a stop on the bank completely out of the water.  The stern was approximately three to four feet from the edge of the water.  No one was ejected. Operator injured his right arm and shoulder, his son had a small cut on his head.  Both were taken to the hospital by ambulance.  Paramedics believed Operator may have a broken arm and a dislocated shoulder. 

Wham Brake is very low at this time due to the lack of rain.  The canal is very shallow and narrow, it has a lot of logs stuck on the bottom in the mud.  The low water and the speed Operator was traveling were the main two contributing factors to the accident.  No alcohol use is suspected.  Life jackets were worn and the kill switch was used.

The vessel was not damaged in any way that I could find.


BARDID: LA-2023-0114
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-11-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:30:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Tiger Pass
NearestCityTown: Venice
County: Plaquemines
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause3: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
n November 9th, 2023 at approximately 7:30PM a mud boat was headed west in Grand Pass at a high rate of speed. Operator had one passenger on the vessel with him. Operator was attempting to turn off of Grand Pass into the Cypress Cove Marina when he lost control of his vessel. Operator tried to regain control of the vessel but was unable to stop it from sliding due to the high rate of speed. 

The vessel struck a cement bulkhead on the north side of Grand Pass. During the incident, the passenger was thrown from his seat onto the floor of the boat injuring his knee. He was transported to a hospital in Baton Rouge for emergency surgery.  During the investigation, the vessel was found to have the required PFD's on board along with other safety equipment. Alcohol may have been a factor in the incident but unknown at this time. The vessel was equipped with a tiller steering mud motor that had been hopped up for performance and speed.


BARDID: LA-2023-0115
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-11-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 05:20:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Baptiste Collette
NearestCityTown: Venice
County: Plaquemines
WaterConditions: Choppy
HazardousWaters: Y
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Poor
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Restricted vision
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
n November 12th, 2023 at approximately 5:20AM, Wildlife and Fisheries Sgt. was notified by LDWF Dispatch that a boat accident had taken place earlier in Baptiste Collete. Sgt.  made contact with the vessel operator and notified him he was in route to the location of the accident. The agent was informed that there were no injuries and the vessel was pushed up on the bank. The operator told the agent that he had been operating his 18 foot mud boat near the north bank of Baptiste Collete when he hit a rock jetty. He began to take on water and beached the vessel on the bank to avoid sinking. He had one passenger on the vessel with him and another vessel was following him. The operator informed the agent that they were safe and that they had called Sea Tow to salvage the vessel.


BARDID: LA-2023-0117
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-09-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 07:56:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Bayou Dulac
NearestCityTown: Dulac
County: Terrebonne
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On 09/17/2023, LDWF Enforcement Agent, Corporal and Lieutenanat were advised via LDWF Communications of a boat accident in Bayou Dulac, Terrebonne Parish.  The boat accident took place on 09/17/2023 at approximately 07:56 A.M. in Bayou Dulac, Terrebonne Parish. Vessel 2 was occupied with 2 subjects. Vessel 2 is a 17 foot, 7 inch aluminum, open motorboat powered by a single remote steered Mercury 60 horsepower outboard engine.

V2 occupant sustained a minor head injury and refused all medical care on scene. Over the course of several interviews, Operator2 stated that there were 5 PFD’s onboard. The PFD’s included (5) Type 3 PFD’s. Operator2 stated that the 2 occupants on board were wearing PFD’s at the time of the incident. Operator2 stated that the boat was equipped with an engine cutoff lanyard, which was attached/affixed to him during the time of the incident. 

Vessel 1 was occupied with 2 subjects. Vessel 1 is a 20 foot, fiberglass, open motorboat powered by a single remote steered Yamaha 150 horsepower outboard engine. Over the course of several interviews, operator1 stated that the 2 occupants on board were wearing PFD’s at the time of the incident. Operator1 stated that the boat was equipped with an engine cutoff lanyard, which was attached/affixed to him during the time of the incident.

Agents questioned the vessel operator's about what occurred. Agents inspected both vessels for physical damages. The physical damages matched what both operator's stated happened with the incident. Upon questioning both operators and reviewing physical damages, Agents determined that (V2) was traveling eastbound, on step, in Bayou Dulac, Terrebonne Parish. (V1) was traveling eastbound, on step, in Bayou Dulac, Terrebonne Parish, behind V2. 

V2 missed his turn and reduced forward speed, coming down to idle speed. Operator2 stated that after missing his turn, he reduced speed and was focused on his GPS. V1 maintained speed and made contact (ramped and jumped) with the stern of V2 and went airborne. V1 made contact with the stern of the vessel, contacting the engine cowling, listing toward portside. V1 continued travelling forward and the propeller made contact with aluminum on the stern, passenger seats on the vessel and came to a stop after making contact with the portside bow of the vessel. After viewing the damage of both vessels, Agents believe V1 was operating around approximately 40 miles per hour. V1’s passenger, stated that he was looking down at the deck of the boat to shield his face from the wind. V1 occupant was ejected upon making impact. V1 occupant refused all medical care on scene. After the incident occurred, both V1 and V2 awaited the arrival of LDWF Enforcement Agents.

On 10/25/2023, Agents traveled to Operator2’s residence. Operator2 advised that both he and his passenger received medical care after the incident occurred. As a result of the accident and boat collision, v2 occupant sustained a concussion, injury of the head and a strain of an unspecified muscle, fascia and tendon at the shoulder at upper arm level. Operator2 sustained a cervical strain and reported aches and pains as well as stress induced complications (Trouble sleeping, nightmares, increased heart rate).

   Agents found operator inattention to be the primary contributing factor of the incident. Secondly, Agents believe that V1 not having a proper lookout to be a contributing factor to the incident. Thirdly, Agents believe V1 violated Rule of the Road number 16, which states that all vessels shall be operated at reasonable speeds for given conditions and situations and must be under the complete control of the operator at all times. V2 violated Rule of the Road number 8, which states that vessels will not abruptly change course without first determining that it can be safely done without risk of collision with another vessel. Lastly, Agents believe Careless or Reckless Operation to be the tertiary cause of the incident. Agents do not suspect drugs and/or alcohol to be contributing factors in the incident. Both vessel operators were criminally cited for 34:851.4-Careless Operation.


BARDID: LA-2023-0118
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-11-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:55:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Intracoastal Waterway
NearestCityTown: Westwego
County: Jefferson - 26
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause3: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Other
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
OtherAccidentEvent: Collision with seaplane
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 (21’ Viper Cobra fiberglass) was traveling east in the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW) towards Bayou Segnette waterway in Jefferson Parish.  At the time, Seaplane (Cessna 185) was on final approach for a water landing in the same direction on the ICW.  

The Operator of Vessel 1 and one passenger were aboard the vessel and stated they were returning from fishing and were not aware of the Seaplane.  The Pilot, the sole occupant of the Seaplane, stated that she observed a pontoon boat, airboat, and a recreational vessel (Vessel 1) in the waterway.  The Pilot began her descent and stated she noted the position of the vessels. 

Evidence and statements suggest that at some point, Vessel 1 maneuvered into the landing path of the Seaplane, with no knowledge of the Pilot.  During the landing, but before touching down on the water, the Seaplane’s right pontoon impacted the engine cowling of Vessel 1.  Vessel 1 rotated hard to port and the Seaplane overturned and began to sink in an upside down position.  The Pilot exited the aircraft and was approached by Vessel 1.  The pilot asked what she had hit and the passenger of Vessel 1 responded, “You hit us.”  

There were minor injuries of all parties involved in the incident.  Required, wearable PFDs were on the vessel and used during the incident.  No alcohol is suspected in this incident.  Contributing factors include no proper lookout on behalf of Vessel 1, Louisiana Rules of the Road for Boater’s violation of Vessel 1, and inattention on behalf of both Vessel 1 and the Seaplane.


BARDID: LA-2023-0119
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-10-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:35:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Pontchartrain
NearestCityTown: Slidell
County: LA
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On October 22, 2023, at approximately 1:35PM, a two-vessel collision occurred in Lake Pontchartrain (St. Tammany Parish) just west of the draw bridge for the U.S. Highway 11 trestle. Vessel 2, a 26-foot Avenger center console fiberglass boat, owned by operator, was traveling westward at bare steerage speed through the Highway 11 draw bridges. When Vessel 2 was near the western most end of the wooden fender system for the draw bridge still at bare steerage speed, it was struck at its' stem by the bow of Vessel 1, a 26-foot Sea Fox center console fiberglass boat. 

The operator of Vessel 1, at the time of the collision, had just cleared the bascule train draw bridge headed westward when he applied throttle to the motor in excess of bare steerage speed in an attempt to get on plane. The captain of Vessel 1 and his passenger were both staring at a commercial crab boat which had entered into the bridge channel headed Eastward when throttle acceleration was slowly being applied to Vessel 1. 

As Vessel 1 was still in the plowing stage of acceleration, its bow keel struck the outboard motor of Vessel 2 and rolled off to the port side of Vessel 2. Vessel 1 sustained fiberglass damage to the centerline (keel) of its bow at and below the water's surface and fiberglass damage to its starboard side chine. Vessel 1 was able to return to port under its' own engine power. Vessel 2 sustained mechanical damages to its outboard motor and fiberglass damage along its' port side. Vessel 2 needed to be towed back to port. The passenger of Vessel 1 sustained no injuries while the operator of Vessel 1 sustained one minor scrape to his left hand. 

Vessel 1's operator refused medical treatment. The operator of Vessel 2 complained of discomfort in his back. He was rushed to a local hospital by EMS Personnel, where he was later discharged with a possible concussion and was referred to a back specialist for further diagnosis and treatment. N

either operator showed signs of impairment. Both vessels contained proper boating safety equipment, though none of the parties involved wore life jackets at the time of the collision. Both operators were wearing their kill switch lanyards at the time of the collision. Alcohol nor drugs were used and were not contributing factors in this collision. Operation at the time of collision was maneuvering. Type of incident was collision with vessel. Contributing factors were determined to be operator inattention and improper lookout. One criminal citation was written to the captain of Vessel 1 for careless operation (Fail to Keep Proper Lookout), which he accepted and signed. The investigation into this incident has closed.


BARDID: LA-2023-0121
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-09-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:17:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: GRAND BAYOU
NearestCityTown: CHOCTAW
County: LAFOURCHE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On 09/16/2023 at approximately 11:20am, LDWF Agents Lt. and Agt. responded to a boating incident involving one vessel which occurred in Grand Bayou near the Sanchez boat launch in Lafourche Parish with 2 individuals that both sustained injuries. 

Agents arrived on scene and met up with the Lafourche Parish Sheriff's Office(LPSO) and a good samaritan that towed the vessel back to Sanchez boat launch. LPSO advised Agents that Acadian EMS arrived at the boat launch before and had the 2 individuals air lifted to the University Medical Center in New Orleans, LA. The father of the boat operator trailered the vessel back to his residence where Sgt. was en route to start taking pictures of the damage. 

The good samaritan boarded the LDWF patrol vessel with the agents and brought them to the scene of the boat accident. Agents took pictures of the entire scene. Agents returned back to the boat launch and made their way to the residence to meet up with Sgt.. In the course of the investigation, Agents discovered a 1978 15' (later determined to be 14') homemade aluminum vessel powered with a 40hp tiller steer gator tail was cruising with 2 occupants and collided into a tree. 

During the remainder of this report this vessel will be known as V1. V1 was cruising at approximately 30mph in Grand Bayou heading to Lake Boeuf when the passenger changed his seating position from port side(left) bow to starboard side(right) bow shifting the weight of V1 causing the operator to lose control and steer right into a tree on the bank. 

The operator was thrown forward breaking the grab rail in V1 and the passenger was thrown forward into the bow of V1. After impact the operator tried to push the motor back down into the water to head back to the launch and burned his hand on the exhaust. A good samaritan passed by and towed V1 back to the Sanchez boat launch. LPSO and Acadian EMS met the operator and passenger at the boat launch and had them air lifted to the University Medical Center in New Orleans, LA. LDWF Cpl. made his way to the University Medical Center in New Orleans to collect statements from the individuals involved in the accident and document the injuries sustained. 

Operator sustained head trauma and a 2nd degree burn on his right hand. Occupant dislocated his right hip, fractured his right ankle, and fractured his right rib. 

            According to LDWF Registration, V1 was a homemade boat, but was not assigned a HIN number. V1 was registered as a 15’ aluminum vessel 1978, however the investigating agents determined the actual length of the hull to be 14’. Agents communicated with LDWF Registration Dept. Registration was unable to locate any photographs taken of the vessel at the time of inspection. A homemade vessel won’t have a HIN until it is inspected and assigned one. All boats manufactured or imported on or after November 1, 1972, must bear a HIN. V1 had many modifications and changes to the hull including a brand new 40hp Gatortail motor which had .1 hours on the motor. 
            On October 5, 2023, LDWF Sgt. and Agt. arrived at Operator's residence for questioning along with his Operator’s father. Upon contact Agt. immediately read them their Miranda Rights. They both understood these rights. Agents questioned why V1 did not have a HIN and also why the vessel measured 14' instead of 15' according to the registration. Operator’s father stated he owned the boat for approximately 20 years and had not modified the length of the vessel in any way. He also stated the vessel did not have a HIN and has always been able to renew his registration. 

Agents took a statement from Operator’s father stating that V1's boat numbers have not been changed and the length has not been altered. After questioning, Agents cited Operator with RS34:851.20F, careless operation for violating number 16 of the rules of the road for vessels. Number 16 states, all vessels shall be operated at reasonable speeds for given conditions and situations and must be under the complete control of the operator at all times. Operator was also cited civilly for 34:851.24, fail to comply with pfd requirements less than 16 feet tiller outboard, and RS34:851.20F, expired boat registration certificate.
            Agents reached out to the LDWF Boating section at headquarters for V1's history. The farthest documentation goes back to 1993.

            The contributing factors are believed to be 1) operator inexperience, 2) careless operation, and 3) excessive speed. Impairment is not believed to be a contributing factor. PFD's were not used. Kill lanyard was used.


BARDID: LA-2023-0124
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2023-10-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:09:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE DECADE
NearestCityTown: THERIOT
County: TERREBONNE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause2: Ignition of spilled fuel or vapor
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
On 10/12/23, vessel travelled across lake decade.  Passenger was seated directly in front of the operator. (ves1) is a 15' mudboat (fiberglass - open) with remote steering. Ves was powered by a 65hp subaru in-board motor. The operator and passenger both wore type 3 pfd's. The engine cut-off lanyard was not used. 

          ves1 caught fire at 7:09pm while traveling across lake decade. According to statements gathered from the operator and the passenger, a 5 gallon plastic fuel can was strapped to the rear deck of ves1, near two exhaust mufflers. 

Heat from the exhaust caused the plastic fuel can to build pressure and melt. Gasoline sprayed from the can directly onto the hot exhaust. Upon catching fire, the operator and passenger exited the vessel wearing type 3 pfd's. While in the water, the passenger contacted the staff at falgout canal marina and requested assistance. The marina staff notified the terrebonne parish sheriff's office. The sheriff's office water patrol and a good samaritan rescued the two men, and assisted in towing ves1 to falgout canal marina. While at the marina, the vessel flooded from the damage sustained and sank. Ves1 was later lifted from the waters and placed onto its trailer.

         agents investigating the matter did not detect impairment.


BARDID: LA-2023-0126
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-12-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 08:57:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Calcasieu Lake
NearestCityTown: Cameron
County: Cameron - 12
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Unseen water hazard
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was traveling north in Calcasieu Lake. V1 was described as a 20' Express Bay boat, with remote steering.  V1 was powered by an outboard motor.  V1 was traveling along the eastern bank of Calcasieu Lake.  V1 was located north of Lambert Bayou and south of Grand Bayou.  While traveling north, V1 struck a submerged object.  V1 had extensive damage to the lower  unit and mid-section of the motor that was in excess of $500.00   There were no other passengers on the vessel.  The involvement of alcohol/drugs are not suspected as being a contributing factor to the incident.  The operator of V1 had a PFD on during the incident.  The contributing factor is underwater obstruction.  The type of incident is struck a submerged object.


BARDID: LA-2023-0127
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-12-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:51:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Nantachie Lake
NearestCityTown: Colfax
County: Grant
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Other
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentCause3: Operator inexperience
OtherAccidentCause: Unseen water hazard
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent3: Capsizing
RedactedNarrative:
On December 17, 2023, at 12:51 P.M., a Grant Parish Sheriff's Deputy notified Senior Agent of a possible boating accident on Nantachie Lake, near Colfax. The deputy stated that there were three subjects in the water near the Old Levee Road landing and that he was in route with a vessel in tow to attempt to recover the stranded boaters. I, Sergeant, proceeded to the given landing location to assist the deputy in a potential recovery, while SA retrieved a LDWF department issued vessel. Upon arrival at the scene, it was determined there were two male subjects, not three, and they were being transported back to the Old Levee Road landing by a good samaritan in a nearby vessel. From the shoreline the vessel appeared to be submerged, but the hull of the vessel was visible and in an upright capsized position. 

The owner and operator of the 17-foot Statos Javelin identified himself. Neither gentlemen suffered any injuries and declined medical evaluation from Acadian Ambulance who was on scene. Operator stated that around noon, he and Occupant1 were returning from fishing near the spillway on Nantachie Lake to the IP boat launch when he hit two submerged objects believed to be stumps. 

When making contact with the second stump, Operator stated the vessel rode up over the stump and caused the lower unit to hit, killing the motor. Once the motor was restarted and back underway the vessel began taking on water. Both gentlemen stated they attempted to get water out of the vessel and Operator added that he attempted to turn on the bilge pump. Operator stated that while operating, he had the motor trimmed as high possible that allowed the propeller and water intake to be submerged but was in a position that if he hit any stumps would not cause damage to his lower unit or prop. He added that he was operating at a slow rate of speed when he bumped the stumps, and it was noted that he was wearing an ignition safety kill switch. Also, both gentlemen were able to retrieve a type III PFD and place on their person before the vessel became fully capsized and they were in the water. 

Once in the water they were able to stay with the vessel until help arrived and they were transported back to the shore. Both gentlemen estimated their time in the water to be between 30 to 40 minutes. After speaking with both gentlemen, the primary factor leading to the capsizing of the vessel is believed to be hazardous waters and possible operator inattention. The hull of the vessel was photographed and psychically examined, but no significant damage was initially observed. Alcohol and drug use, along with poor weather, were ruled out as being significant factors leading to the incident.


BARDID: LA-2023-0128
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-12-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:30:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Barataria Waterway
NearestCityTown: Lafitte
County: Jefferson - 26
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause3: Improper lookout
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On 12/30/23 a 17 ft Alweld center console aluminum flat boat was north bound in the Barataria Waterway on plane at speed estimated by operator as 25-30 mph. This vessel was also occupied by two female juveniles, both wearing PFD's. 

The second vessel a 21 ft Sea Pro fiberglass center console bay boat was being operated by single occupant,  traveling from Goose Bayou and entered into Barataria Waterway heading South at speed of about 30mph. 

Operator2 stated that after he had straightened his path from the turn to the right side of the oncoming vessel he observed the oncoming flat boat's travel was drifting toward his path. Operator2 stated that the operator of the other vessel appeared to be looking down and did not appear to see him. Operator2 stated that he pulled back on the throttle. Both vessels impacted bow to bow. One of the juvenile occupant was ejected from the vessel into the water. Operator2 stated that after impact he was able to retrieve the ejected juvenile that was wearing a PFD from the water and into his vessel. Interview of operator1 revealed that he did not see the other vessel before impact and that his vision may have been obscured by one of the passengers. Both vessels utilized remote steering. Drugs or Alcohol is not suspected of contributing to the incident. PFD's were utilized.


BARDID: LA-2023-1000
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-06-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:30:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Gulf of Mexico
NearestCityTown: Morgan City
WaterConditions: Unknown
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Unknown
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/Swamping
RedactedNarrative:
According to a news media report, a vessel sustained damage after hiting a submerged piling and taking on water 20 miles from Morgan City.  The four boaters were rescued.  No injuries.


BARDID: MD-2023-0001
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2023-01-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:18:00
State: MD
NameOfBodyOfWater: Magothy River-Main Stem-Bigger
NearestCityTown: Arnold
County: Anne Arundel
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: Y
HazardousWaters: Y
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On January 6, 2023, at approximately 5:00 PM, Maryland Natura Resources Police responded to Anne Arundel Medical Center in reference to two kayakers who went overboard in the Magothy River. Upon arriving at Anne Arundel Medical Center, the two kayakers were fully identified.

We interviewed Operator and Occupant in their respective hospital rooms. Operator and Occupant stated that between approximately 1:30 PM and 2:00 PM, they departed Occupant’s residence aboard Operator’s Pelican kayak (15 ft, two-seater, blue and white in color). They were sitting tandem in the kayak, with Occupant in front and Operator in the rear. The plan was to kayak to Gibson Island and then return to Occupant’s residence. It should be noted that, prior to their departure, both Operator and Occupant, agreed that the water did not appear too rough for a kayak.

According to Operator and Occupant, they had no issues arriving to Gibson Island. However, once arriving to Gibson Island, they noticed the wind was stronger and the water conditions had worsened. Therefore, they decided to start heading back to Occupant’s residence before the conditions worsened.

On their way back to Occupant’s residence from Gibson Island, Operator estimated the chop to be 1-2 feet with white caps forming. Occupant estimated the winds to be approximately 20 mph. As the two continued to paddle back to shore from Gibson Island, water slowly began swamping the kayak due to heavy chop. It was approximated that when they were between 50 and 100 yards from shore, the rear of the kayak became completely swamped with water.

At this time, both Operator and Occupant decided to abandon the kayak and start swimming to shore. The two were able to swim to a nearby pier off of Persimmon Point. Subject noticed the two kayakers struggling. Subject1 ran out of her house to the bulkhead and threw a rope to Occupant who was still in the water. Occupant grabbed the rope and was able to pull herself into shore.

At approximately 3:45 PM, Operator and Occupant were both out of the water. Subject1 brought them into her house so they could get out of their cold, wet clothes, and raise their body temperatures by taking hot showers. By this time, Subject1’s husband had already called 911 and EMS was in route. EMS arrived shortly thereafter, and both Operator and Occupant were transported to Anne Arundel Medical Center to be treated for hypothermia.

Both Operator and Occupant seemed to be mildly hypothermic. Operator explained that upon exiting the water, his body felt very weak, he was light-headed, dizzy, and nauseous. According to Operator, neither him nor Occupant were fully submerged in the water at any point. The water only came up to their necks. At the hospital, both kayakers were in stable condition and were said to be released later that night by medical staff.

Finally, Operator was questioned as to whether him and Occupant were wearing PFDs at the time of the incident. He explained that they were not wearing PFDs, and that they did not have any wearable PFDs onboard the vessel. Operator stated that he and Occupant were each sitting on a Type IV throwable PFD, but they did not have any wearable PFDs onboard. Operator also stated that there were no sound producing devices or navigational equipment onboard the vessel.

Due to the fact that Operator owned the kayak, he was identified as the captain of the vessel at the time of the incident.

Operator was issued the following:
1 NR Citation
MR 08.18.04.02 A: Failure to Carry PFDs Aboard Vessel Not Subject to USCG Inspection
2 PFDs short
1 NR Warning
MR 08.18.01.04 A: Failure to Obey Navigation Rules – Rules of the Road
No sound producing device
Written statements were obtained from Operator, Occupant, and Subject1.

As of this report, the whereabouts of the kayak remain unknown.

This is a reportable boat accident per Maryland Natural Resources Police policy, and I will be attaching a watercraft accident template to my report.

All events occurred in Anne Arundel County, MD.


BARDID: MD-2023-0002
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-01-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 06:20:00
State: MD
NameOfBodyOfWater: 600 Doyle Road, Deale
NearestCityTown: Deale
County: Anne Arundel
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: Y
HazardousWaters: Y
CongestedWaters: Y
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Poor
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Electrical
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (non-fuel)
RedactedNarrative:
On January 26, 2023, at approximately 6:20 A.M., Ofc. and I, Off., of the Maryland Natural Resources Police, was dispatched to investigate a vessel fire that occurred at Wilson Cove Marina, 600 Doyle Rd, Deale MD, 20751. The call had originally been dispatched to the Anne Arundel County Fire at 1:15 A.M who advised the vessel was docked at the address above and fire had been extinguished.

We noticed four marine batteries laying by the entrance of the dock. The top side of the batteries had sustained burn damage and had electrical wiring that had been cut off. Pictures of the batteries have been added to the attachment section of this report. The vessel involved in the fire was a white 1982 Tollycraft Trawler 48' bearing MD registration /US Coast Guard # 916267.

Officers made contact with the owner of the vessel. Owner stated he was sleeping in the vessel when he woke up to smoke coming out of the bilge and filling the cabin area. Additionally, he stated he didn't observe any flames while he was in the vessel waiting for AACO Fire to show up. The engine area had sustained minor charring and the fuse junction box wiring was melted. Pictures of the affected area has been added to the attachment section of this report. He informed us he had the wiring redone by a local company out of Herrington Harbour North approximately two months ago and had not had any issues until now. The fire more than likely began from an electrical shortage from the wiring connecting the junction box and batteries. Owner estimated each battery at $1,000, plus $4,000 for wiring and battery switch for a total of $8,000.

I advised Owner to contact his insurance agency and provide them with the report number to facilitate with the claim process. 

All events occurred in Anne Arundel County, MD.


BARDID: MD-2023-0003
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2023-02-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:06:00
State: MD
NameOfBodyOfWater: St Martin River Ocean Pines
NearestCityTown: Ocean Pines
County: Worcester
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Improper loading
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent3: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
On February 19, 2023, at approximately 2:00 pm DNR Communications dispatched Cpl and I to a water rescue in the St Martin’s River. They reported one subject that had fallen from his kayak and was currently in the water. Ocean Pines Fire Department was currently responding. Cpl responded by boat and I drove to the closest ramp to the location of the subject; White Horse Park, and met with ems and fire personnel.

Upon arriving at White Horse Park, I met with the fire department command that advised they had the subject onboard and were transporting him back to our location. The victim was identified by his wife.  I was able to speak with Subject’s wife while OPFD’s vessel was transporting him back. She advised that Subject had called her on the phone and explained that he had flipped his kayak and was on the far shore of the river. She also explained that Subject's brother had taken a second kayak and paddled out to assist.

Subject went directly into the awaiting ambulance when they arrived at the pier to be evaluated for hypothermia. His wife had also placed a dry set of clothes in there for him. As I was attempting to speak with any other witnesses, I saw Subject exit the ambulance and begin to walk back towards the houses. I approached Subject and advised him that I would need to speak with him about the incident. He stated that it was not him who had fallen overboard and continued to walk away. I had witnessed him come in on the fire boat and go directly into the ambulance. I continued to walk with him, offering to get back into the heated ambulance or my truck which also was running with the heat on. I noticed him to be carrying his dry clothing as he had not changed out of his wet clothes. Subject continued to walk away, only responding with “I'm fucking going home!” and refusing to give me the address to where that residence was located.

I again asked him to stop, so I could give him a ride or at least obtain the address to meet him back there. He began walking faster away from me. At this point, I ordered Subject to stop, as I needed to conduct an interview with him on the actions that transpired that caused his capsizing and sinking of his kayak. He became very aggressive, screaming “am I being detained!” I advised him he was in fact, but we could get into one of the heated vehicles as I only needed to ask him several questions. He again continued to yell and question what he “was under arrest for.” I repeated that he was not under arrest and was only being detained. I had not been able to identify him at this point in the interaction.  

I made the decision to not take force to detain Subject, despite his refusal to stop or provide any identification. The only charges I was investigating currently were failure to have a PFD on board and possible negligent operation of a vessel, due to the capsizing. The crimes did not merit the inevitable use of force that would have been necessary to detain Subject. So I continued to follow Subject back to the residence he had been walking to. He spoke with a female at the door, and entered the house. Wife advised this was his mother’s house.

I was able to speak with Wife again for a short time in the front yard of this residence. She went inside several times at my request to ask him to come out to speak with me, after he had time to change and calm down. I could hear him yelling responses back from inside; he would not speak to me. Wife was able to give me a brief description of the kayak; it was a darker green single-person. She stated that he had been out fishing by himself when something happened and had flipped. He was able to make it to the nearest shore, which was the Bishopville side of the river, where he then called her. She subsequently dialed 911. It was apparent that Subject had instructed Wife to stop speaking with me after one of the times she went inside to check on him. I gave her my business card and asked that she pass it along to Subject to make contact with me before they return home. I also explained that Cpl was attempting to locate the sunken kayak for them, utilizing the onboard side scan system. But had not currently located anything, due to Subject's refusal to assist in identifying where it had sunk. 

As of February 21, 2023 I have not heard from Subject.

All events occurred in Worcester County.


BARDID: MD-2023-0004
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2023-04-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:59:00
State: MD
NameOfBodyOfWater: 1651 Orchard Beach Road
NearestCityTown: Annapolis
County: Anne Arundel
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (unknown origin)
RedactedNarrative:
On April 9, 2023, at approximately 3:00pm, I was dispatched to a call for a reported vessel fire at a dock in Mill Creek. I arrived on scene at appropriately 3:12pm. I observed multiple firefighters actively engaged in a fire on the box of a white sailboat. I was able to confirm immediately that the vessel was not occupied and there were no injuries related to the vessel fire. The vessel is a US Documented Vessel, # 1076004, with a home-port of Newport, RI. The vessel owner arrived at approximately 3:36pm. I met with Owner on the adjacent dock while the fire department continued to work to ensure the fire was out. Owner provided a written statement detailing the last time he was on the vessel and the last time the vessel was used. Owner also stated the estimated value of the sailboat was in excess of $175,000. Owner could not provide an estimated repair cost at this time, but based on my knowledge, training, and experience it is well above the minimum threshold for a reportable boat accident. Photographs of the vessel, the vessel documentation, and insurance information are included as attachments to this report.

I spoke to the Anne Arundel County Fire Investigators, and they were initially unable to determine the cause of the fire. I gathered all pertinent documentation, took photographs, and cleared the scene after providing the vessel owner with my contact information and details on how to obtain copies of the report.

All events occurred in Anne Arundel County, Maryand.

This case is closed.


BARDID: MD-2023-0005
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-04-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:05:00
State: MD
NameOfBodyOfWater: 2010 Knollview Ave
NearestCityTown: Pasadena
County: Anne Arundel
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
RedactedNarrative:
On April 11, 2023, at around 2:00 P.M., I, Officer First Class of The Maryland Natural Resources Police, responded to Atlantic Marina for a rescued kayaker. The call was received via the United States Coast Guard communicating with a Good Samaritan on VHF Channel 16. When I arrived at Atlantic Marina (2010 Knollview Avenue, Pasadena, MD 21122), I met with a Good Samaritan that recovered an individual out of the water. The individual was later identified by a passport, who was actively fishing from a kayak when he fell overboard and was unable to climb back aboard. Operator was wearing a PFD when he fell overboard, which kept him afloat and kept him from drowning. The Good Samaritan vessel recovered Operator and his gear at the coordinates: 39.150196N, -76.450184W. When making contact with Operator, he appeared to be lethargic and shivering. He was unable to speak English, and we had another Good Samaritan who was able to translate for us.
        Conditions at the time of accident: Air Temp: 72 degrees
Winds: Southwest 10-15mph.
Sea conditions: Waves 1 foot.
Water Temp: 56.8 degrees
Small craft advisory in effect until 8pm

        Operator was transported by Anne Arundel County Emergency Medical Services (Run # 2023-24871) to Anne Arundel Medical Center with symptoms of hypothermia. While at the hospital, Operator gave a written statement that he was trying to pull a fish into his kayak when he fell overboard. Operator's wife was given information and address for both the kayak location and vehicle location. The kayak was left at Atlantic Marina and the vehicle that Operator drove is at Fort Smallwood Park. They would be able to recover both the vehicle and the kayak as soon as possible. 

        Due to Operator being transported for medical treatment, a Boat Accident Report is being completed.

        All events occurred within Anne Arundel County, Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2023-0006
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-04-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:50:00
State: MD
NameOfBodyOfWater: Rose Street Boat Ramp/Johnson
NearestCityTown: Salisbury
County: Wicomico
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Improper loading
AccidentCause2: Overloading
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On April 16th, 2023, I, Cpl. of the Maryland Natural Resources Police (NRP), and Sgt. (NRP) were on patrol in the area of Cedar Hill Marina when we were informed by NRP Dispatch of four people overboard in Johnson Pond (Rose Street Boat Ramp, Salisbury, MD).  We were advised that all four subjects were on shore at that time and EMS was en route.  While heading to scene, we were advised that two juvenile subjects were being transported to Tidal Health (Salisbury, MD) with unknown injuries.  Due to an extended ETA to scene, I requested that Sgt. go to the hospital to meet with the juveniles and I continue on to the scene.  According to the fire department on scene, the operator of the vessel had loaded up his vessel and wanted to leave to head to the hospital to meet with the juveniles.  

I arrived on scene and met with Assistant Fire Chief of the Salisbury Fire Department.  Chief stated that the vessel operator was identified.  He was operating a white Dodge Dakota and had a 10-12 ft. jon boat in the back of it.  Chief stated that Operator refused treatment on scene and Operator advised he was going to self transport to the hospital to get evaluated.  Chief stated that the two juveniles were transported to Tidal Health to get evaluated for possible hypothermia.  I asked Chief what occurred, and he stated that the boat flipped over in the water and the four occupants, two juveniles and two adults fell into Johnson Pond.  When his crew arrived, the vessel and people in the water were approximately 20ft. from the pier.  Chief sent 3 firemen into the water to assist getting the subjects out of the water.  At the time of the rescue, Chief advised that the subjects were not wearing life jackets.  There were no other witnesses left on scene.

After departing the scene, I went to Tidal Health to meet with Sgt. and check on the juvenile victims.  When I arrived on scene, I observed a white Dodge truck with a small, white jon boat in the bed of the truck leaving the area of the Emergency Room entrance.  By the time I turned around to follow the truck, I lost sight and could not locate the truck in the area of the hospital.  I then parked at the ER ambulance entrance and spoke with hospital staff who informed me where the juveniles were located. 

I first met with subject1 who was accompanied by her grandmother.  Grandmother was acting as the guardian for Subject1 and signed off on all medical releases for the hospital.  I asked Grandmother if she was one of the occupants on the vessel and she stated that she was not.  Grandmother stated that she was on the boat prior to the incident and was there when the boat left with the four people on board.  Her son is Operator and she stated that she told him the boat was too small for all those people (4 people).  I asked for Grandmother's permission to speak with Subject1 and she stated that I could.  I spoke to Subject1 while Grandmother was present in the hospital room.

I asked Subject1 if she could tell me what happened out on the water.  Subject1 stated that when they were out on the water, her dad, Operator, was trying to balance the boat.  She was balancing on one side and her niece, Subject2, was on the other side.  She said her big sister, Subject3, was sitting in the middle.  Subject1 said that she saw water coming in the boat and then the boat flipped over.  Subject1 said that she fell in and her feet touched the bottom of Johnson Pond and her dad pulled her up.  I asked Subject1 if she was wearing a life jacket and she said that she was, but she slipped out of it when she fell in.  I asked Subject1 if she could swim and she stated that she did not know how to swim.  

After speaking with Subject1, I met with Sgt., who had spoken with the other juvenile, Subject2 and her father.  Sgt. obtained a written statement from Subject4 who observed the incident take place from shore (see attached).  I spoke with Subject4 and he stated that Operator was not coming to the hospital and was at his residence.  He also stated that his sister, Subject3, was at her residence and was not going to get evaluated at the hospital. 

I departed the hospital and went to Operator's residence.  I met with Operator at his residence and asked what occurred at Johnson Pond.  Operator stated that he was just taking the girls (Subject1, Subject2 and Subject3) out for a ride on Johnson Pond.  Operator said that he was sitting at the stern and operating the vessel.  The two young girls sat on the middle bench seat, one on each side to balance.  His daughter, Subject3, sat in the center of the middle bench in between the girls.  Operator stated that they were approximately 30 yards away from the Rose Street Boat Ramp when his daughter, Subject3, turned around and sat on the front bench seat of the vessel.  When she moved to the bow, water began to come into the boat from the bow.  Operator stated that the vessel took on water and rolled to the right (starboard side) and flipped over.  All four passengers fell overboard.  Operator stated that he quickly grabbed both of the young girls, Subject1 and Subject2, from the water.  Both of the girls slipped out of their life jackets and could not swim.  Operator stated that he and Subject3 could swim.  Operator state that he tried to flip the boat over but was unable to.  He then stated a male subject had jumped into the water to assist them and they kicked while holding onto the vessel back to shore.  I asked Operator how long did he think he was in the water for and he stated approximately 10-15 minutes.  Operator stated that Subject1 and Subject2 were transported to the hospital, but he and Subject3 refused treatment.  Operator stated that he went home after getting help loading up the vessel to try and warm himself up.  He stated the water was really cold.  Operator advised that his daughter, Subject3, was fine and went home.  I asked Operator to provide Subject3's information and he could only tell me that her name is Subject3.  He could not remember her date of birth and stated that her phone was broken and she recently moved, so he was not sure of her address.

I asked Operator if he could show me the vessel, and he took me to his truck and the vessel was tied up in the bed of the truck.  As I photographed the vessel (photos attached), I had Operator complete a written statement.  The vessel is approximately 8 feet in length, aluminum hull, white in color paint on the outside.  The vessel was displaying a Delaware registration.  The Delware registration sticker on the vessel showed an expiration of 12/31/2022.  I asked Operator about the registration and he stated that his "old lady" had the new registration and he had not put it on the boat yet.  The vessel had a 5hp Mercury engine and a vessel HIN.

After I received Operator's statement (attached), I gave him my contact information and advised to tell Subject3 to contact me as soon as possible to obtain a witness statement.  As I was leaving, Subject1 was arriving home.  I was advised that both juveniles were released from the hospital with no significant injuries.  I will be following up with Subject3 at a later date to obtain a witness statement.

All events occurred in Wicomico County, Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2023-0007
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-04-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:19:00
State: MD
NameOfBodyOfWater: Choptank River-Denton to Dover
NearestCityTown: Easton
County: Talbot
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Sharp turn
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
CoordinatesConfidence: C
RedactedNarrative:
On 4/13/23 at approximately 1419 hours, I, Corporal of the MD Natural Resources Police, was on patrol near St. Michaels when I received a call from DNR dispatch to respond to the area of the Choptank River for a boat accident. 

DNR dispatch advised an individual had been thrown from his vessel and was currently on a nearby dock and was conscious, but not being responsive. DNR dispatch stated that EMS was already en route.  I advised DNR dispatch I would be stopping to pick up our Jon boat at the Talbot Co. Sheriff office in case we needed to launch to secure the victim's vessel. While en route, DNR dispatch stated that Talbot EMS advised the victim had gone into cardiac arrest and had begun CPR. At that time, Capt. advised he would be responding and also contacted NRP investigators to begin heading to the location. Sgt. arrived on scene at approximately 1440 hours and I arrived approximately 5-8 minutes later. Ofc. also arrived at about the same time, and we went to the rear of the residence to assist with moving the victim off the dock into the ambulance. EMS had already secured the victim to a backboard, and he was being given CPR through the "Lucas Machine." 

We identified the victim by his friend who was on scene. Once, Victim was loaded into the ambulance, EMS advised he was being transported to University of Maryland Shore Medical Center in Easton.   I met with the residents of the property where Victim had been brought onto the dock. I obtained written
statements. 

Both individuals stated, they observed a white speed boat traveling north on the Choptank River and suddenly the boat nose dived into the water and the operator was thrown from the vessel. Subject1 attempted to make contact by yelling to the individual in the water, but got no response at which time he called 911. 

He said the individual was attempting to swim, but in a distressed manner. Several minutes later, a blue boat similar to the victims, arrived and pulled the victim on board and brought him to Subject1's dock. 

Subject1 stated the incident occurred at 38.797406, -75.931296. We also obtained a written statement from subject2 who pulled the victim from the water. Subject2 stated, he responded to the area because he and Victim were testing out propellers on their vessels by running them at high speeds. 

Victim had driven his boat, a 2008 Checkmate Pulsar with a 300 h.p. Mercury, south past Subject1's dock and turned around. He had been returning north to meet up with Subject2 near Gaineys Wharf. When Subject2 realized Victim had not arrived in a reasonable amount of time he went to look for him and found him in the water near his vessel. 

Subject2 pulled him on board his vessel and brought him to Subject1's dock when EMS arrived shortly after and began treating Victim.  While Sgt. and Ofc. remained on scene with witnesses, I responded to University of MD Shore Medical Center in Easton. When I arrived, Capt. was already at the hospital with several members of Victim's family and he advised me Victim was deceased. I spoke with Dr., the ER doctor who had treated Victim when he arrived. He stated, Victim would need a medical examiner to determine a cause of death and the only trauma was a minor laceration to his left ear. 

Corporal and Ofc. of Investigations arrived on scene and met with the family. Corporal responded to the residence and met with the witnesses. I cleared the hospital at approximately 1745 hours.  All events occurred in Talbot County, MD.


BARDID: MD-2023-0008
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-05-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:18:00
State: MD
NameOfBodyOfWater: Solomons Harbor-Back Creek
NearestCityTown: Solomons
County: Calvert
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On May 8th, 2023, I, Officer of the Maryland Natural Resources Police, received a call from an individual stating that he wanted to report a vessel accident that happened on May 7th, 2023, at about 4-430pm. Operator stated that while traveling into the Patuxent River from the Chesapeake Bay, he got distracted by looking down at his cell phone and struck the three-leg day marker (red number 4) head-on while traveling at 7.1 MPH. This resulted in minor scratches and scraps to the day marker and caused damage to his vessel, "Wanderer," a 40-foot cabin vessel. The damage to his vessel included cracked/broken fiberglass, a broken ship's wheel helm, a damaged front beam stem, and a displaced anchor roller resulting in an inoperable anchor windless. In addition, the above-stated collision also resulted in minor injuries as follows; a small cut, swelling, and bruising to the right side of his forehead as well as small bumps and bruises to his hands and legs from impact with the ship's helm and wheel. He did receive medical attention the following day, on May 8th, 2023, by Ambulance out of Solomon's Volunteer Fire station; he was checked out and treated, and Operator was released and returned to his vessel.


All events occurred in Calvert County, MD.


BARDID: MD-2023-0009
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-05-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:00:00
State: MD
NameOfBodyOfWater: 1565 North Harbor Drive
NearestCityTown: St Leonaard
County: Calvert
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: Y
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
AccidentCause3: Improper lookout
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Grounding
AccidentEvent3: Person departed vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On 5/9/23 at approximately 1803 hours, officers received a call for a vessel taking on water South of Flag Harbor Marina in the Chesapeake Bay. While en route to the location of the vessel, Calvert County dispatch advised that we could disregard at 1813 hours due to enough fire and EMS personnel on scene. 

They also advised that the vessel had run aground with one person onboard. At 1833 hours Calvert County called back advising fire boat 1 was pulling alongside of the vessel and would advise when they have the subject on board their vessel. At 1833 hours I advised all units from the Maryland Natural resources Police would be cancelling due to fire boat 1 making contact with the subject onboard and no reported injuries at that time. 

At 1857 hours Calvert dispatch advised that they would be taking the subject to Flag Harbor Marina for an EMS check-up due to a possible broken leg. At 1923 hours I was advised that Trooper was en route to fly out Victim due to the broken leg and was landing at Grover Field in St. Leonard. I responded to Grover Field to meet with EMS personnel and gather formation regarding the cause of the broken leg. I made contact with EMS at Grover Field where they advised me that while Victim was attempting to board fire boat 1, he fell causing his leg to get caught in the railing of his vessel ripping his leg open and causing a partial amputation. At 1950 hours Victim was loaded into Trooper and flown to Baltimore Shock Trauma. At 1951 hours I received Victim's personal effects from the EMS crew and made my way to the Indian Creek office to log his items into evidence for temporary holding.
   
    I arrived at the Indian Creek office to meet Ofc. to hand over evidence for logging. Ofc received Victim's personal belongings at 2046 hours. After handing over all of Victim's belongings I responded to North Beach Volunteer Fire Department to make contact with the boat crew from fire boat 1 and obtain statements as to the cause of Victim's injuries and what led up to the incident. Shortly after 2130 hours Ofc. and I met with the boat crew of fire boat 1 at the North Beach Volunteer Fire Department located at 8536 Bayside Rd Chesapeake Beach, MD 20732. Three firefighters provided written statements to the cause of Victim's injury.
   
    On 5/10/23 I responded out to Victim's vessel just South of Flag Harbor Marina. I documented the vessels condition, the vessels name, and registration number. Photographs of the vessel were obtained and uploaded to this report. I did not observe any structural damage to the vessel but did observe a broken bow cleat and broken rear railing that was indicated by North Beach Fire Department to be from the attempted towing of Victim's Vessel and the broken railing on the port stern to be from when Victim became caught resulting in his injury.

    On 5/10/23 Cpl. of the Maryland Natural Resources Police conducted an interview with Victim at the R Adams Cowley Shock Trauma Center in Baltimore, Maryland. Victim's statement as recorded by Cpl. is attached. Cpl. interviewed and wrote Victim's statement due to Victim being unable to write at the time of the interview.

    Following the interview with Victim at Shock Trauma and collection of witness statements from firefighters on scene at the time of the incident, the following was learned about the case of Victim's injury. On 5/9/23 shortly after 1800 hours Victim made a distress call to the United States Coast Guard stating that his vessel was taking on water and he that had ran aground just South of Flag Harbor Marina in Calvert County, Maryland. 

Saint Leonard, North Beach, and Tilghman Island Volunteer Fire Departments responded out to his vessel in distress call. Upon arrival, they discovered a 28-foot sailing vessel ran aground with one person on board. North Beach Fire Department made two attempts to pull the vessel off the sandbar. During the first attempt the cleat that the towline was fashioned to broke free of the deck of the sailboat. 

During attempt two the line that North Beach Fire department had been using broke, and they were unable to free the vessel. Following the unsuccessful attempts to free the vessel North Beach advised Victim that they could either leave him on the vessel until Tow Boat US could free his vessel, or they could have him board their vessel and take him into Flag Harbor Marina. Victim advised that he would like to be taken into the marina. North beach VFD subsequently position their vessels bow along the port side of Victim's vessel. 

Victim attempted to climb onto the bow of the fire departments vessel, in doing so Victim fell and was caught by firefighters onboard. After falling Victim's foot became lodged on his vessel. As North Beach's vessel attempted to reposition to get Victim onboard a wave jostled the two vessels causing Victim to fall with his foot still wedged/caught. As Victim Fell he flipped over the wire railing of his vessel and caused a partial amputation of his left leg from the force of his body weight being flipped over the railing, but his leg failing to free itself from where it was stuck. After being injured, firefighters boarded Victim's vessel, freed his foot and applied a tourniquet to stop any more bleeding from the partially amputated limb. Victim was transferred by vessel to Flag Harbor where he was transported by St. Leonard EMS to Grover Field to be air lifted out by MSP helicopter Trooper.
   
   No follow-up investigation to be conducted. Mechanism of injury was identified. No police action to be taken.

    All events occurred in Calvert County Maryland. This case is closed.


BARDID: MD-2023-0010
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2023-05-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:59:00
State: MD
NameOfBodyOfWater: West & Rhode Rivers-Parish Cre
NearestCityTown: Shady Side
County: Anne Arundel
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: Y
HazardousWaters: Y
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Poor
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent3: Capsizing
RedactedNarrative:
On 05/17/23 at approximately 8:59 P.M., I, Cpl. along with Ofc., both of the Maryland Natural Resources Police, responded to a call received over VHF radio channel 16 for a vessel in distress at the entrance channel of Parish Creek on the West River Anne Arundel County, Maryland. Upon our arrival, officers observed a sailboat, just south of the channel to Parish Creek, with lights emanating from the cockpit area. The sailboat was identified as a 1972 27' Jensen sailboat, white in color with a red stripe, bearing Maryland Vessel registration.

    We subsequently maneuvered the patrol vessel alongside the sailboat and made contact with a female operator. I asked Operator if she was okay and how many other people were aboard the sailboat. Operator stated that the boat was aground, and she was accompanied by her son and their two dogs. Operator stated that she had a slip reservation at Parish Creek Landing Marina in Shady Side and was attempting to navigate the sailboat through the channel entrance to Parish Creek. Operator advised that the wind was very strong and pushed the sailboat out of the channel and causing them to run aground just south of the Parish Creek channel entrance. I asked Operator and Subject2 if they had tow insurance to assist them with removing the vessel. Subject2 stated they had used up all of their "tows" and those companies weren't an option. Due to the high winds, and the vessel's potential to become a navigational hazard, I attempted to tow the vessel off of the shoal. After several unsuccessful attempts, I instructed Operator and Subject2 to secure the sailboat with an anchor. I then instructed them to take refuge on their dingy that was tied to the starboard side of the sailboat. 

    Approximately twenty to thirty minutes later, Operator and Subject2 were still gathering personal items from the cabin area of the sailboat. Over the course of the twenty to thirty minutes, wind speeds were rapidly increasing. Ofc. and I decided to bring Operator aboard our patrol vessel, so she wouldn't have to step down onto the dingy. Ofc. instructed Operator to wear a life jacket and then assisted her and her dog onto the patrol vessel. Ofc. and I waited for approximately twenty more minutes while Subject2 attempted to gather personal items and patch a leak, he had discovered in the bow area of the cabin. As weather conditions continued to worsen, I had to order Subject2 to vacate the sailboat and board his dingy.

    It was at this time we observed that the starboard gunwale of the sailboat was perilously close to the waterline. As Subject2 was preparing to board his dingy, he realized he needed a fuel line for the dingy's outboard engine and searched for it near the stern of the sailboat. With each passing second, the sailboat continued to lean further and further to starboard. I instructed Subject2 to forget the fuel line and board his dingy immediately. Within minutes of Subject2 leaving the sailboat, the starboard side was completely underwater, and its mast was inches from the surface of the water. Subject2 struggled to get his dingy started, and I was fearful that he and his dog would be injured from the sailboat's mast. Ofc. maneuvered the patrol vessel alongside the dingy and I pulled Subject2 and his dog onto our patrol vessel. Operator and Subject2 were then transported to Parish Creek Landing Marina in Shady Side along with their two dogs.

    After arriving at Parish Creek Landing Marina, I interviewed both Operator and Subject2. They stated they had departed Burt Jabin's Marina located in Annapolis sometime between 9-10:00 A.M and arrived near Shady Side at approximately 3:30-4:00 P.M. Operator stated she was attempting to navigate the Parish Creek channel entrance when the wind pushed her to the south side of the channel where the sailboat became grounded. Operator stated they had been a ground since approximately 4:00 P.M. I asked Operator and Subject2 if they had called for help. They advised they never called nor signaled for help. I asked Subject2 if he attempted to call Sea Tow or Tow Boat U.S. Subject2 stated that he had sold another sailboat on the morning of 05/17/23 and the purchaser of the sailboat had falsely used his name to be towed by Tow Boat U.S. 

Due to this, he had no "tows" left and therefore could not receive any assistance. I asked Operator and Subject2 if they had consulted the weather report before departing, to which Operator advised she had. I asked Operator and Subject2 if their Jensen sailboat was equipped with navigational equipment, and they stated it was equipped with three different navigational units. Operator stated she had approximately two years of boating experience.

    Subject2 estimated the sailboat to be worth approximately $3000. He stated the sailboat was equipped with a 9.9 H.P. Yamaha outboard engine valued at approximately $1500. He advised there were numerous computers, hard-drives, solar panels, navigational instruments, and radios onboard the sailboat valued at a total of approximately $5000. 

    Operator advised the sailboat was insured by Safeco but could not provide a policy number. Operator and Subject2 advised they were going to contact a salvage company in the morning to have the sailboat removed. 

    The sailboat was aground at GPS coordinates: N 38 degrees 51.050', W 076 degrees 30.441' in approximately 4' of water. I contacted the U.S. Coast Guard, and they broadcasted a "notice to mariners" to warn passing vessels in the area. 

    On 05/21/23 I patrolled the channel entrance of Parish Creek and observed two Tow Boat U.S. vessels attempting to raise the sailboat. I talked to Tow Boat U.S., who stated, once the sailboat was raised, it was going to be towed to Galesville Harbor Yacht Yard to be destroyed. 

    As of this report no charges have been filed pending further investigation. 

    The accident resulted in property damage only. Neither Operator, Subject2, nor their dogs sustained injuries as a result of the accident. 

    All events occurred in Anne Arundel County, Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2023-0011
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2023-05-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:00:00
State: MD
NameOfBodyOfWater: 1533 Widows Mite Rd, Edgewater
NearestCityTown: Edgewater
County: Anne Arundel
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On 05/27/23 at approximately 10:00 A.M., I, Cpl. of the Maryland Natural Resources Police, responded to a PWC accident that occurred on the South River, near land address. The reporting party advised that there was one P.O.B. in the water as a result of the PWC colliding with a pier. 

    Upon my arrival at land address, I observed the victim lying on the shoreline receiving medical treatment by EMS personnel. EMS personnel were attempting to stabilize Victim and were applying a tourniquet to his right leg. Shortly thereafter, EMS personnel advised Victim was going to be transported to Shock Trauma in Baltimore due to the seriousness of his injuries (EMS run# 2023-36571). Ofc., of the Maryland Natural Resources Police, responded to Shock Trauma to provide updates on Victim's condition. 

    Once Victim was transported, I investigated the scene, and observed a PWC, which would be fully identified as a 2018 BRP PWC, white and black in color, bearing MD registration, floating against the shoreline at land address. I observed that the entire top portion of the PWC was destroyed, to include the cockpit area such as the handlebars, forward controls, dash area, seat, etc... I further observed that the bow of the PWC suffered extensive damage to include the plastic shrouding being torn away from the port-side bow area. I observed several pieces of debris floating in the water which included the PWC's seat, plastic fragments, and the PWC's front hatch cover. 

    After investigating the damage to the PWC, I interviewed the only witness to the accident. Witness was also the owner of the PWC involved in the accident. Witness stated at approximately 9:30 A.M., he assisted Victim with lowering the PWC off of the boat lift and turning it around, so it was facing away from his dock. Witness stated that Victim started the PWC, and in less than a minute, he observed Victim accelerating towards the neighboring dock, at a speed of approximately 15-20 knots, before ultimately striking one of the pylons on the neighboring dock. It should be known that the distance between the two docks was approximately thirty yards. Witness stated that Victim was knocked off of the PWC and was floating on his back in the water, all the while remaining conscious. Witness stated he immediately jumped into the water and dragged Victim to shore. Witness advised that when he got Victim to shore, he was still conscious, but his face was bloody, and his right knee was torn and bleeding. Witness attended to Victim until EMS arrived. 

    I asked Witness how long he knew Victim and if Victim was competent to operate a PWC. Witness stated he knew the family for approximately "four" years because he sponsored Victim's brother, who had just graduated from the Naval Academy; however he had only met Victim a few times when he would visit from out of state. I asked Witness if he knew how many times Victim had operated a PWC, and he answered "maybe a few." I asked Witness if victim had consumed any alcohol and/or drugs prior to operating the PWC, to which he stated "no." I asked Witness if the PWC had any history of mechanical malfunctions that could have caused the throttle to remain wide open. Witness stated he wasn't aware of any mechanical issues with the PWC and stated they had just recently used the PWC with no issues. 

    Witness stated the PWC was valued at approximately $7500 and was insured by USAA insurance. Witness removed the PWC from the water and was going to keep it on a trailer at his residence for safekeeping. 

    Prior to leaving the scene, I observed blood spatter on a vessel that was secured to a boat lift which was attached to the same dock that was struck by the PWC. The blood was located on the bottom, starboard-side of the vessel. I further observed that the mounting brace, on one of the stabilizer poles of the boat lift, was damaged. The impact caused the brace to rotate and move from where it had been originally mounted. There was also a scratch on the boat lift as a result of the accident. 

    I interviewed the owner of the boat, and instructed him to let me know if his vessel was damaged due to the impact from the PWC as well as any other damage that may have occurred to his boat lift. He valued his vessel at approximately $90,000 and the boat lift at approximately $15,000. 

    Upon Ofc. arrival to Shock Truama, he learned that Victim had suffered fractures to his skull, face, and right leg. Ofc. stated that Victim was going to undergo further testing for other additional injuries. 

    As of this report, Victim was still known to be at Shock Trauma in critical condition with the aforementioned injuries. 

    No charges have been filed, and this case is considered closed, pending updates on Victim's medical condition. 

    All events occurred in Anne Arundel County, Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2023-0012
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-05-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 07:04:00
State: MD
NameOfBodyOfWater: Chester River-Kent Narrows-Nor
NearestCityTown: Stevensville
County: Queen Annes
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
RedactedNarrative:
On 05/26/2023, at approximately 0800 AM, I, Officer First Class of the Maryland Natural Resource Police, was notified by DNR Communications of a reported boat accident that had occurred on 05/25/2023. The accident involved a thirty-seven-foot Blue Eagle Yacht Victory Tug that had struck a buoy on the port-side bow.

            At approximately 0940 AM, I met with two people who were aboard their vessel in Still Pond Creek. The vessel had struck the buoy on the port-side bow with enough force to break a hole in the hull and damage the surrounding area. I was not able to see the exterior damage as it was covered with taping, but Operator was able to provide me with a photo he had taken prior to covering the damage.

This was the most significant damage done to the vessel. There were also scuff marks on the hull of the vessel on the port side just above the waterline.   Operator advised they had left the Kent Narrows at approximately 10:40 AM, and traveled north at 7-8 knots with a destination of Still Pond Creek. The weather conditions on the water that day were 1-2 foot seas, and a north wind blowing at approximately 14mph. At approximately 0100 PM, Operator stated that they struck a red channel buoy. He was in the wheelhouse as the operator, and Occupant was down below in the cabin. Operator is not clear how he had struck the buoy, as he believed he had left enough clearance between him and it to pass without hindrance. Based on the vessel's speed and the time of the accident, it is possible the red buoy struck was either the #10 or #12 just prior to the Chesapeake Bay Tolchester Channel. At that time the vessel would have been past Swan Point, where they would be more exposed to the north wind as they were adjusting course. It is likely that when Operator adjusted his course he did not account for the increased wind speed and wave intensity, which would have been enough to push the vessel into the buoy.
            
            Neither Operator or Occupant were injured during the incident.

            Operator guessed that the cost to repair the vessel would probably be about $5000.

            No charges were issued.

            All events took place in Kent and Queen Anne Counties, Maryland.

            This case is closed.


BARDID: MD-2023-0013
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-05-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:26:00
State: MD
NameOfBodyOfWater: Deep Creek Lake
NearestCityTown: Swanton
County: Garrett
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
RedactedNarrative:
On 5/29/2023 at approximately 1726 hours I Maryland Natural Resources Police Officer First Class was dispatched to Garrett Regional Medical Center for a propeller strike that occurred on Deep Creek Lake. On arrival, I made contact with the victim. Victim had a deep cut in his right thigh approximately 4 inches long and 1 inch deep requiring approximately 20 stitches.  

I asked Victim what happened, he stated "I was tubing and fell off, when I swam around to the ladder I bumped the motor with my leg cutting it." Victim also stated the boat was in neutral when he was near the engine. Once Victim was onboard the vessel his leg was immediately wrapped with a towel to help control the bleeding. The group immediately returned to their dock a few hundred yards away to take Victim by personal vehicle to Garrett Regional Medical Center in Oakland Maryland. 

I interviewed one of the occupants aboard the vessel. Subject1 stated she was an observer on the vessel when the accident happened. Subject1 stated that Victim was tubing, fell off the tube, and swam to the back of the boat. When he got out his leg hit the propeller cutting it. Subject1 also stated the boat was in neutral when Victim was near the boat. 

I responded to the location of the docked vessel and the rest of the group aboard the vessel. I made contact with the operator of the vessel. I asked Operator what happened. Operator stated they were tubing out in front of their dock, there were two people on the tube. Victim fell off the tube and Operator turned around to pick him up. Operator stated she put the boat in neutral for Victim to board the rear ladder. I asked if the vessel remained running while Victim was boarding and Operator stated the engine was running. I asked Operator if she had any alcohol, and she stated she did not. I could not detect an odor of alcohol and no indication of impairment throughout her actions or speech. The vessel a 2018 Bennington Pontoon boat was in proper working order after the incident with no indication of mechanical malfunction. I issued Operator a warning for negligent operation of a vessel and explained to the group proper safety instructions for boarding a vessel.

All of the above occurred in Garrett County Maryland 
Request case closure


BARDID: MD-2023-0014
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-06-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:13:00
State: MD
NameOfBodyOfWater: Tangier Sound-Little Annemesse
NearestCityTown: Crisfield
County: Somerset
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On June 3, 2023, I Sgt. of the Maryland Natural Resources Police was contacted by dispatch about a boat accident in the area of Broad Creek in the Pocomoke Sound. I was already underway on vessel 853 at Janes Island State Park. I immediately proceeded to the reported area of the incident. Prior to the entrance of Broad Creek on the Little Annemessex River side of Broad Creek, I observed a U.S. Coast Guard vessel with its blue lights on and two vessels close by. I approached the two vessels and noticed a Grady White vessel bearing Maryland registration at anchor. The second vessel was a white center console vessel bearing Maryland registration and was rafted off to the Grady White. At first glance, I did not observe any damage to the center console vessel. However, I did observe extensive damage to the Grady White vessel. The top of the gunwales on both sides of the stern area along with the top of the transom had been ripped off.

    I then made contact with both vessels and all occupants onboard. No one required any medical attention and no one reported any injuries. I obtained vessel registrations from both vessels and further surveyed the damage to the Grady White vessel. I asked the operator of the Grady White vessel if the vessel was capable of returning to the dock on its own power. Operator2 advised that it was. The operator of the center console vessel also advised that his vessel was capable of returning to the dock. At that time, I instructed both operators to proceed to Somers Cove Marina boat ramp.

Once all vessels were safely secured at the ramp, I further surveyed the damage to both vessels. I asked all parties about the circumstances that led to the collision. Both operators stated that both vessels were traveling in the direction of the mouth of Broad Creek from the Little Annemessex River. The Grady White vessel was cruising at a slower speed and the center console vessel was overtaking it. While the center console vessel was overtaking the Grady White, the center console vessel got caught in the wake of the Grady White and operator1 was thrown off balance and lost control of the vessel. At that time, the center console vessel abruptly changed course to starboard(right) and hit the Grady White vessel on it's port(left) side just behind the cockpit. Because of the high rate of speed of the center console vessel, it ran up and over the port side of the vessel and continued across the back of the vessel and exited over the starboard side of the vessel. Damage to both vessels was consistent with both operator's explanation of the accident. 

Operator2 advised that Operator1 told him to get a quote from Evans Boats and let him know of the damages. Operator2 said he planned to get a quote early the next week. 

Based on the accounts of the accident from both operators and the damage that I observed on both vessels, Operator1 was issued two citations for the following:

08.18.01.04(A) - failure to obey navigation rules - rules of the road
08.18.01.04(B) - unsafe speed for conditions - rules of the road

All events occurred in Somerset County, MD


BARDID: MD-2023-0015
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-06-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:09:00
State: MD
NameOfBodyOfWater: Deep Creek Lake
NearestCityTown: Oakland
County: Garrett
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause3: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On 6/24/2023 at approximately 4:10 PM, I Cpl. with the Maryland Natural Resource Police received a call from Maryland Natural Resources Police dispatch for a Person Water Craft (PWC) accident. Dispatch stated the individuals were currently at Fun Time Water Sports and EMS had been notified. I arrived at Fun Time Water Sports at approximately 4:14 PM. There I found a group of individuals in the lobby and one individual in the bathroom rinsing his hand in the sink. The individuals were later identified by their state-issued Driver's Licenses. The victim was identified. EMS arrived on the scene at approximately 4:20 PM and began treating Victim's injuries.

I spoke with Operator about the incident. Operator stated he had no experience operating a PWC prior. Operator stated that he and his friends were operating PWCs south of the Glendale Bridge on Deep Creek Lake. Victim was stopped on his PWC facing north and Operator began to approach facing south. Operator stated he approached Victim at approximately 12 miles per hour. He attempted to turn, but the PWC continued to go straight. Victim attempted to fend off the incoming PWC. In doing so, his hand was smashed between the two vessels. The port side of Operator's PWC impacted Victim's PWC on the port side.  A member of the party assisted Victim back to Fun Time Water Sports.

EMS transported Victim to Garrett Region Medical Center.  Hospital staff stated that approximately 1/4 of an inch from the tip of Victim's finger had been amputated. He also sustained a 1 1/2-inch laceration to his left thumb. Fun Time Water Sports provided me with Operators rental boater safety test. Operator was issued one citation for operating a PWC greater than 6 knots within 100 feet of another vessel. All events occurred in Garrett County, Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2023-0016
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-05-19 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
State: MD
NameOfBodyOfWater: Selby Bay, Holiday Point Marin
NearestCityTown: Edgewater
County: Anne Arundel
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On May 20th, 2023, at approximately 11:30 AM, I, Ofc. and Cpl., both of the Maryland Natural Resources Police, were on boat patrol aboard NRP 877 in the South River. We received a call from DNR Communications regarding a boating accident that occurred on May 19th, 2023, at approximately 3:00 PM in Selby Bay on the South River at Holiday Point Marina. The caller was the owner of a struck vessel.  I spoke with Subject1 on the phone and arranged to meet him at his vessel and arrived at approximately 12:04 PM. Subject1 was aboard his 2002 Green 35-foot Chesapeake Yacht Clipper Catamaran with Virginia registration at Holiday Point Marina.

Subject1 provided me with all documentation of the vessel and showed me where another vessel, a white 2002 21-foot Reliable MFG model 21CC with Maryland registration, struck his port outboard engine Skeg. I took pictures of the engine and the vessel and performed an inspection of Subject1’s vessel. Subject1 was provided a witness statement to fill out and Subject1 took me over to where the striking vessel was located. The striking vessel's transom displayed the name "Rocco." I then took pictures of the striking vessel which are included in this report. Subject1 and the operator of the striking vessel exchanged information after the accident on May 20th, and Subject1 provided me with a picture of the driver’s license of the operator onboard the striking vessel. The operator of the striking vessel was the vessel’s registrant.

Subject1 initially believed the damage to be less than the reportable amount of $2,000 but had not received an estimate before my arrival. Subject1 reported that he was in the cabin of his vessel, while it was docked.  His girlfriend was on the center of the deck when the striking vessel came towards a bulkhead east of his vessel to dock. The striking vessel had two persons on board and put the vessel in reverse to correct its docking approach. While the vessel was in bare steerage reverse, the port side quarter of the striking vessel contacted the port outboard engine skeg of the docked catamaran. A scrape occurred on the striking vessel’s port quarter that was approximately 2 feet and ¼ inch wide. There was a 7 to 8-inch portion that had about a ¼ inch gouge in the fiberglass on the striking vessel. The outboard engine on the catamaran, a 2022 25-horsepower Tohatsu, was knocked out of its alignment on the transom mounting bracket. I told Subject1 to contact me if the damage on his outboard engine exceeded 2,000 dollars. Subject1’s witness statement is included in this report. Subject1 does not have insurance for his vessel and Operator1 has Erie insurance for his vessel.

Weather conditions at the time of the accident were cloudy and daylight with good visibility. The air temperature was 75 degrees Fahrenheit, and the water temperature was 67 degrees Fahrenheit. Water conditions were calm with no strong current or hazardous waters. Sustained winds of 16 miles per hour were coming from the East-southeast.

On June 1st, 2023, at 12:55 PM, Subject1 contacted me by phone and advised that the Erie Insurance Company sent a marine surveyor to assess the damage to his vessel. The damage to the outboard engine was a bent steering tube, a bent yoke in the motor bracket, and a bent steering lock with an estimated replacement cost of $3,960 but at the time of this report, the estimate is verbal. I called Operator1 at 7:29 PM on June 1st, 2023, and provided him the report number. Operator1 did not provide an estimate for the damage to his vessel. Based on my prior knowledge, training, and experience, Fiberglass repairs of that size typically cost between $500-$1500 dollars.

All events occurred in Anne Arundel County.

This case is closed.


BARDID: MD-2023-0017
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-06-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:16:00
State: MD
NameOfBodyOfWater: Elk River - White Crystal Beac
NearestCityTown: Earleville
County: Cecil
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
I Ofc. of the Maryland Natural Resources police was dispatched to a boat accident at 1749hrs on 6/4/2023. Upon receiving the call, I made contact with the complainant. When I made contact with Subject1 I asked if the incident was ongoing and if he was out with the suspect and striking vessel. Subject1 said he was not out with the vessel and that this had occurred sometime within the past hour and a half. 

I arrived down at White Crystal Beach to speak with Subject1 and gather his information and get pictures of the damage to his vessel. While there I asked again if he knew who damaged the jet ski or had a description of the vessel that struck his jet ski. Subject1 stated he was unsure he was out on the jet ski earlier in the day and came in to have lunch. He had the jet ski on a mooring ball while he was in eating lunch. When he went back out to get on the jet ski he noticed the damage and called NRP right away. 

I finished gathering his information and gave him my card and the incident number, so his insurance company could get a copy of the report if need be.

All events occurred in Cecil County MD.


BARDID: MD-2023-0024
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2023-06-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:05:00
State: MD
NameOfBodyOfWater: Chesapeake Bay
NearestCityTown: Lusby
County: Calvert
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause3: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent3: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On Tuesday June 13th, 2020 at approximately 2:07 pm, I (Corporal) received a call from Maryland Natural Resources Police dispatch of a vessel taking on water in the Chesapeake Bay. I plotted coordinates to the given location and arrived on scene at approximately 2:24 pm.

When I arrived on scene, I observed a vessel sinking with only the upper superstructure out of the water and rapidly submerging. The two occupants of the sunken vessel had already been rescued and taken aboard the Research Vessel R/V Potawaugh still floating in the area. I retrieved the two occupants and placed them on my patrol vessel. By that time, the stricken vessel had completely sunk, leaving only about a foot of the starboard side sticking out of the water. I asked the male operator and owner what had happened that cause the boat to sink. Operator stated that the boat was underway on autopilot and cruising at 30+ knots. He was checking ahead periodically for obstacles but when he looked up the final time, the boat was on course to hit the red #76 buoy with no time to avoid a collision. The starboard bow of the boat struck the buoy while traveling around 30+ knots and placed at least a two foot hole in the front of the boat, according to Operator.

While en route with me back to the duty station at Solomon's Harbor, Operator contacted Tow Boat US to retrieve the sunken vessel. Also while returning to station, Operator's wife stated she would like to have her ankle evaluated by EMS due to a possible sprain stemming from the accident. When we arrived at the dock, Operator had been contacted from Tow Boat US and they said they would not re float the boat at this time. Tow Boat has informed Operator that weather permitting, they will attempt to retrieve the boat on Thursday, June 15th, or Friday, June 16th. Their reason was due to the boat currently sitting on the sea floor and want to wait to hear from Operator's insurance company before they proceed. Ambulance from Solomons Island evaluated and transported both to St. Mary's Medstar hospital in St. Mary's County. Operator for a cut on the knee, and occupant a possible sprained ankle.

The boat is a 2022 Beneteau Antares 11 Fly Bridge, 32'-6" in length and is believed to be a total loss, valued at close to $500,000.00.
Coast Guard documentation 1329863 and named NOMAD.
Insurance through Chubb Insurance. 

This case is closed.
All events occurred in Calvert County, Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2023-0025
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-06-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:59:00
State: MD
NameOfBodyOfWater: Deep Creek Lake
NearestCityTown: Oakland
County: Garrett
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentCause3: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Collision with fixed object
RedactedNarrative:
On 6/8/2023, at approximately 1658 hours, I, Ofc., with Maryland Natural Resources Police, received a call from DNR communications, about a boating accident that happened on Saturday 06/03/2023. 

Subject1 informed me that his boat was struck while tied up to the dock at the Honi Honi bar. The incident happened on Saturday 06/03/2023 at approximately 1330 hours. I asked Subject1 why he waited so long to report it, and he stated that he spent the week speaking to his insurance company and wanted to document the incident. Subject1 informed me that he had a video of the incident and the owner of the Honi Honi bar witnessed it also. 

I contacted the manager of the Honi Honi bar and was able to view the video and was given a copy. A pontoon boat with approximately 6 people, backed out of a slip and sped forward, striking Subject1's boat, MD registration, Subject1's boat pushed up on to the dock. Damage was done to the stern of Subject1's boat, and his motor. Damage was also done to the front port side of his boat from being forced up onto the dock. No one was on Subject1's boat at that time of the accident. Subject1 drove his boat to Bill's Marina for repairs. Estimated repairs are approximately $3,500 to $4,000 dollars. 

Due to the poor resolution of the video, the registration number for the striking vessel is unreadable. 

Pictures are attached to this report. 

The video was unable to be attached. 

All events occurred in Garrett County, Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2023-0026
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-06-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:52:00
State: MD
NameOfBodyOfWater: Choptank River-Denton to Dover
NearestCityTown: Preston
County: Caroline
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Sudden medical condition
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Person departed vessel
AccidentEvent3: Falls overboard
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
RedactedNarrative:
Initial Response

                On Wednesday, June 7, 2023 at 1739 hours, I Officer First Class responded at the request of Lt. to the University of Maryland Shore Medical Center at Easton, at 219 South Washington Street, Easton Maryland in reference to a boating accident. Cpl. also responded to assist with the investigation. Upon my arrival I made contact with medical staff, who advised that the priority patient was en route on the ambulance.

                At 1807 hours, Caroline Paramedic Unit (EMS run #23-20810) arrived at the hospital with Victim. Victim was undergoing treatment and I observed a LUCAS device was being utilized. Lifesaving attempts were made by hospital staff until Victim was pronounced dead at 1817 hours by Dr.. The hospital contacted the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner, to have a Forensic Investigator respond to the scene. I was in contact with Lt., who advised that he was escorting Victim’s wife to the hospital.

Forensic Investigation

                The weather conditions at the scene were clear, air temperature was 75°, water temperature 73°, wind was from the west at less than 10 miles per hour, the sea state was calm, and the tide was low. Cpl. and Forensic Investigator arrived on scene. Forensic Investigator inspected the body, which Cpl. photographed. Forensic Investigator contacted Newnam’s Funeral Services, who later responded and took possession of Victim’s body, and transported him to the Chief Medical Examiner’s Office in Baltimore for autopsy, OCME case#23-07096. Victim’s personal effects which consisted of clothing had been removed by medical staff, and were later offered to Victim’s next of kin, who declined to take it requesting its disposal at the hospital.

Interview of the Witness

                I made arrangements with hospital staff to have a private room to meet with Victim’s wife. Upon her and Lt. arrival at approximately 1920 hours, Cpl. and I performed the death notification to Victim’s wife. After notification, I interviewed Victim’s wife regarding the incident.

                Victim’s wife advised that Victim was operating the vessel, the details of which she was unfamiliar with (later found to be a 2000 Susquehana UK 13’8”, MD registration), in the area of the Choptank River near Ganey’s Wharf. Victim’s wife stated that she was the only passenger aboard the boat with Victim. Victim’s wife stated that Victim was an experienced boater, but was unfamiliar with the area, and it was his first time operating this vessel. Victim’s wife stated that as Victim was operating, the vessel ran aground in mud, stopping the boat. Victim’s wife advised that Victim recently inherited the vessel from a deceased friend.

                Victim’s wife advised that Victim got out of the vessel and began to attempt to push it off the mud flat. Victim’s wife stated that Victim was physically exerting himself substantially, to the point she became concerned. Victim’s wife stated that Victim had cardiac issues in the past, which was the cause of her concern. Victim’s wife stated that she warned Victim not to give himself a heart attack. Victim’s wife advised that she observed him “huffing and puffing”, breathing heavily. Victim’s wife advised that Victim freed the vessel from the mud, and climbed back aboard. 

Victim’s wife stated that Victim began to operate the vessel back to the boat ramp. Victim’s wife stated she was sitting in the front of the boat looking rearward, and Victim was sitting at the helm. Victim’s wife stated she saw Victim collapse forward, then fall overboard to the starboard side of the vessel. Victim’s wife stated that when Victim fell he went directly underwater, and she could no longer see him. Victim’s wife advised that Victim was not wearing a PFD.

                Victim’s wife advised that she was not an experienced boat operator. Victim’s wife stated that she moved to the helm and attempted to steer the vessel to shore, but ran aground. Victim’s wife stated that she attempted to contact Emergency Services, but her cell phone would not place the call (I have personal knowledge of the area and confirm cellular service to be unreliable). Victim’s wife stated that she yelled for help and people on shore heard her and called 911.

                Victim’s wife described Victim’s medical history. Victim’s wife advised that Victim had a triple bypass heart surgery approximately five years prior. Victim’s wife stated that Victim was on medication for hypertension and high cholesterol. Victim’s wife stated that Victim regularly consumed alcohol, but not tobacco. Victim’s wife advised that Victim was not inebriated at the time of the incident. At the conclusion of the interview Cpl. assisted Victim’s wife with making additional notification to family members over the phone.

                Ofc. responded to the hospital and provided me the witness statements.  After Victim was taken for transport to the OCME and the Victim’s wife was taken home by family members, Cpl. and I cleared the scene.

Vessel Inspection

                On June 8, 2023 at 0630 hours, I responded to Ganey’s Warf, Preston Maryland, to inspect the vessel. I observed and photographed the vessel, which had been stored there on its trailer by field units the night prior. The vessel was displaying MD registration, but was found to be actually registered differently. I observed one partial can of Miller Lite beer on the console at the helm. I observed no obvious damage to the hull or propulsion. I observed mud stuck to the propeller.

Autopsy

                I responded to the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner at 900 West Baltimore Street, Baltimore Maryland for autopsy. I discussed the incident with the performing doctor, Dr. Dr. advised afterward that Victim had a large heart with prior/remote heart attacks and multiple stents and grafts, and that It was possible that he had a cardiac event prior to drowning. I submitted an autopsy report request, report pending.

                I request this case remain open.
                All events occurred in Caroline and Talbot Counties, and Baltimore City.


BARDID: MD-2023-0027
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-06-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:40:00
State: MD
NameOfBodyOfWater: Deep Creek Lake-North Glade Co
NearestCityTown: Swanton
County: Garrett
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On Sunday, June 25, 2023 at approximately 1947 hours this officer, Sgt., and OFC. were dispatched to Deep Creek Lake near Hines Drive in Swanton, Garrett County, Maryland for a report of a subject injured while boating.  OFC. and I responded in separate vessels and arrived at approximately 1957 hours.

At the community docks near the given address, we found Operator and his wife seated in their 2019 Brig rigid hull inflatable vessel.  Operator was holding a white shirt to the back of Occupant's head.   I recognized Operator from an earlier encounter with him where I had inspected him while he was fishing with two companions.

The investigation of the incident revealed that five people had been cruising in the Brig vessel on the North Glade Cove of Deep Creek Lake at approximately 1940 hours.  Subject1 and Subject2 were seated directly in front of the console of the vessel, and Occupant and Subject3 were seated in the bow of the vessel.   Occupant and Subject3 were facing the stern of the vessel.  The vessel encountered a "wakesetter" style vessel approaching them.  This vessel was throwing a large wake.  As the vessel went across the wake, Occupant and Subject3 were thrown into the air.  As they returned to the vessel, Occupant struck the back of her head on the fiberglass bow of the vessel.  This caused Occupant to suffer a small laceration on the back of her head.  She also indicated that she was very dizzy and nauseous.  Finally, she stated that her neck was very sore.

Occupant was evaluated by members of the Bittinger Volunteer Fire Department and Garrett County EMS.  She was transferred aboard NRP and transported to the nearby docks and boat ramp of Bill's Marine Service.  From there she was transferred to an ambulance and transported to Garrett Memorial Hospital for further treatment and evaluation.  Follow up with Operator revealed that Occupant only suffered the laceration to the back of her head.

There are no descriptors of the other vessel and its operator is unknown.  Therefore, no charges will be placed.

All events occurred in Garrett County, Maryland.  Request case closure.


BARDID: MD-2023-0028
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2023-06-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:17:00
State: MD
NameOfBodyOfWater: Baltimore Harbor-Above Ft McHe
NearestCityTown: Baltimore
County: Baltimore City
WaterConditions: Calm
CongestedWaters: Y
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On Sunday, June 11th, 2023 at approximately 1320 hours I, Corporal of the Maryland Natural Resources Police, was dispatched to a call for a Boating Accident in the Inner Harbor on the Patapsco River.

Prior to arriving to the scene, I was able to speak with Officer of the Baltimore Police Department. He informed me that there were no reported injuries on scene.

Upon my arrival (1001 Fell Street), I observed a multi-color (Blue and White) Robalo center console on top of a floating pier with the bow partially in the starboard side window of a large white vessel.

I spoke with operator1 who stated that he was operating the vessel prior to the collision. 2 other people were on board as well. Operator informed me that while attempting to dock the boat, the boat accelerated forward, causing the boat to go away from the dock and turn around towards the dock a few slips over. The vessel then came in contact with two vessels, a white 37’ Carver and a white 77’ Taian.

I observed the damage to the two vessels from the dock. The 37’ Carver had fiberglass damage to its port side. The 77’ Taian had damage to its starboard side, as well as a broken window from where the bow of the boat entered.

The vessel was removed from the dock by Towboat US.

I collected witness statements.

Operator was issued 1 warning for Navigation – Rules of the Road.

All events occurred in Baltimore City, MD.


BARDID: MD-2023-0029
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2023-06-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:42:00
State: MD
NameOfBodyOfWater: Kent Narrows, Chester
NearestCityTown: Chester
County: Queen Annes
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: Y
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: Y
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
On 06/24/2023 at approximately 0940hrs, I, Ofc., of the Maryland Natural Resources Police, received a call for a boat accident that had occurred on the Kent Narrows near Chester, MD, and was advised that all parties would be coming in at the Kent Narrows Public Boat Ramp. 

    I arrived on scene at approximately 0945hrs and observed a commercial workboat (MD Registration), towing in a small white fishing boat (MD Registration) that was mostly submerged below the water. As they pulled up to the ramp, I observed three Hispanic males whose clothes were completely wet step off the workboat as well as a White male that was operating the boat. After ensuring everyone was alright and had been recovered from the water, I spoke with the work-boat operator in regard to what happened.
 
   Subject1 informed me that he was coming back to Watermen's Wharf to dock after crabbing. As he neared the entrance to the wharf, there was a sailboat that was drifting towards him that he had to navigate around to avoid a collision. After turning to avoid the sailboat and getting ready to enter the wharf, he struck a small fishing boat with the three other individuals on board that he had not seen anchored in front of the entrance. One of the individuals fell into the water while the other two stayed on board the partially submerged vessel. He then maneuvered his boat in order to recover all three individuals from the water. They then tied a line around the mostly submerged vessel and towed it to the boat ramp.

    I then met with the three individuals that were aboard the fishing vessel and identified them. They advised me of a similar story to Subject1. They told me they were anchored near the entrance of Watermen's Wharf fishing when they saw the workboat coming in their direction. They tried waving their arms and shouting to get the attention of Subject1 but their efforts went unnoticed before they were struck on the port side of their vessel by the work-boat. One person was sitting near where the vessels collided and jumped into the water to avoid getting struck by the workboat. The other two remained of the boat. The workboat then turned around and removed all three individuals from the water. 

    One person was then transported by EMS to UM Shore Emergency Center in Queentstown, MD, for minor pains in his right ankle.
    Statements were obtained from both parties, as well as statements from individuals who witnessed the accident and are attached.
    Subject1 was then cited for failure to maintain a proper lookout.
    All events occurred in Queen Anne's County, MD.


BARDID: MD-2023-0030
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-06-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:20:00
State: MD
NameOfBodyOfWater: Deep Creek Lake
NearestCityTown: Oakland
County: Garrett
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: Y
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Sharp turn
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
RedactedNarrative:
On Monday, June 26th, 2023 at approximately 1235 hrs, I, Officer First Class with the Maryland Natural Resources Police, was dispatched to the docks on Deep Creek Lake at 21327 Garrett Hwy, Oakland, Garrett County, Maryland for a report of a vessel that struck a dock and left the scene.  I arrived at the location and a witness stated the vessel went north on the lake under the 219 bridge, and he had a picture of the vessel.  He sent me a picture by phone of the suspect vessel and stated they hit the dock on the left side of the vessel.   

At 1300 hrs, I located a vessel near the Dam of the lake matching the picture and saw white marks on the left side of the vessel.  I approached the vessel that had 5 persons onboard and asked the operator if they had hit a dock.  The operator did admit to hitting the dock but did not believe he caused much damage and that is why he left the scene.  While speaking to Operator about the incident, he stated that he was backing out of the dock slip and noticed kayakers coming around the docks and did not want to hit them.  He then proceeded to go forward and cut the wheel to turn, striking the dock while continuing his turn to exit the dock slip.  Operator stated that he will do whatever he needs to make this right.  He stated that I can give his phone number and information to the owner of the docks.  I issued one citation for (08.18.01.05(B)) Negligent operation of a vessel, before returning to the scene of the incident.

Once back at the scene of the accident around 1410 hrs, I met with the owner of the docks, and he gave me a written statement from his worker because he was out on a kayak with a group.  The statement matched Operator's statement of the event that occurred.  However, Operator did not mention if he heard or saw anybody waving at him to come back to the dock.  I observed the dock section was broken near the hinges of the main dock, causing the dock to block boats from entering the slip.  We secured the broken dock, so it would not cause further damage.  I provided owner with Operator's contact information.       

Witness statement and citation attached. 
Photos of damage attached.

All events occurred in Garrett County, Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2023-0031
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:20:00
State: MD
NameOfBodyOfWater: Deep Creek Lake
NearestCityTown: Oakland
County: Garrett
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: Y
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
RedactedNarrative:
On Sunday July 2, 2023 at approximately 1520 hours, Operator, was operating a 2022 Brunswick pontoon (Maryland Registration) boat on Deep Creek Lake in Garrett County, Maryland near Skipper's Point.  Operator was preparing to pull Subject1 on a tube behind the vessel.  The vessel was also occupied by eight otheres.  

Operator stated that as he placed the vessel's gear selector into the forward position and began to accelerate, Subject1 began to tip forward on his tube.  He then grasped the tow rope of the tube with his left hand.  These motions combined apparently caused Subject1 to suffer a dislocated left shoulder and pain and numbness throughout his arm to the wrist.

Subject1 was placed aboard the vessel and then transported to the docks of Lake Life Rentals.  Once there he was examined by members of Garrett County EMS and Deep Creek Lake Volunteer Fire Department.  He was then transported by ambulance to Garrett Regional Medical Center of WVU Medicine for further evaluation and treatment.

No charges were placed after the investigation of this incident.  All events occurred in Garrett County, Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2023-0032
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:37:00
State: MD
NameOfBodyOfWater: Choptank River-Main Stem- N of
NearestCityTown: Secretary
County: Dorchester
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Missing or inadequate navigation aids
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
RedactedNarrative:
On July 2, 2023, at approximately 12:23 P.M., I, Ofc., of the Maryland Natural Resources Police, received a call from a concerned citizen that he had struck an underwater rock pile in the area of the Choptank River and Warwick River in Dorchester County. Subject stated that all three individuals on board were ok and that they were operating the vessel back to the boat ramp that they launched from.

    At approximately 3:37 P.M., I met with Subject1 at his residence to complete my investigation of the accident. Subject1 explained that while operating his vessel from the Choptank River into Warwick creek, he struck submerged rocks that was poorly marked with out-of-position buoys. During the inspection of the vessel, I observed severe damage to the lower units on the outboard motors. Photographs of the damaged lower units were taken and attached to this report. After the photographs, I met with the other passengers to obtain witness statements. Both passengers explained that while entering the creek, they heard and felt the lower units strike the rock pile.

    At 4:35 P.M., I cleared the residence after obtaining witness statements from the operator and the passengers to the incident.

    All events occurred in Dorchester and Talbot Counties, Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2023-0034
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-06-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:45:00
State: MD
NameOfBodyOfWater: Potomac R-cobb Island-North-Po
NearestCityTown: Colonial Beach, VA
County: Charles
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Person struck by vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On June 25, 2023 at 4:20 PM I, Officer First Class received a report of a boating accident on the Potomac River in the area of Colonial Beach, VA (GPS coordinates 38.22762, -76.95055). The call came in from Virginia Marine Police and they advised that the accident occurred at approximately 1:45 PM.
        
        I spoke with Officer of Virginia Marine Police on the phone, and he described the accident. Officer advised a group of people were taking turns riding on a jet ski, later determined to be owned & operated by Operator. The group was on a boat and jumping into the water to get onto the jet ski. The boat was anchored at the time and was also being operated by Operator. 

The victim was on the boat when she jumped off the bow into the Potomac River to swim to the jet ski. When Victim made it to the jet ski, she dove under it and her hair got sucked into intake grate of the jet ski. The operator realized something was wrong by the sound of the engine and immediately turned the engine off. When Operator noticed that Victim didn’t resurface, he rolled the jet ski over where he found Victim stuck to the intake grate and was able to get her head out of the water. Operator was assisted by unknown good Samaritans and in the process of rolling the jet ski over her hair was ripped and cut from her scalp, causing a wound to her head. 

Colonial Beach EMS units responded and transported Victim to the shoreline. Victim was transported to Mary Washington hospital by Westmoreland County EMS with non-life-threatening injuries. None of the operators were intoxicated, and PFDs were present on both vessels. The details of this incident were confirmed by Victim’s father as well as the operator of the jet ski. Operator received a Maryland temporary boater’s safety certificate online through “Ilearntoboat” on June 6th, 2023.

        The Jet Ski is a 2007 Bombardier Canada GTI237A bearing Maryland registration and a hull identification number. This vessel is registered to Operator. 

        All events occurred in Charles County, MD


BARDID: MD-2023-0035
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:38:00
State: MD
NameOfBodyOfWater: South River-Oak Grove
NearestCityTown: Riva
County: Anne Arundel
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: People on gunwale, bow, or transom
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Person departed vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
RedactedNarrative:
On Saturday July 6, 2023, I, Corporal of the Maryland Natural Resources Police, along with Officer, were on a vessel stop on the South River on the south side the Riva Bridge. Midway through the vessel stop, I observed a white powerboat, displaying Maryland registration, exceeding the Riva Bridge marked speed zone. 

I made an attempt to flag the operator of the vessel in my direction, to which he complied. As the operator neared my vessel, he yelled over to me that someone on the vessel was injured and proceeded to state that the individual had sustained a laceration to their leg. 

There was a female standing in front of Operator on the phone. She yelled over to me that she was currently on the phone with 911. They did not provide me with any more information regarding the extent of the injuries on board the vessel, but did notify me that Anne Arundel County Fire and EMS was going to meet the vessel at Oak Grove Marina. Due to the unknown severity of the laceration, I yelled over at the operator to continue his response to that location and I would meet them there. The vessel stop was immediately concluded and Ofc. and I responded by boat to Oak Grove Marina.

As we pulled into Oak Grove Marina, Anne Arundel County Fire and EMS were already on scene and had begun treating the injured individual. The injured individual was sitting in a seat on the stern of the vessel. He appeared calm, alert and was awake while being treated. a family friend and passenger on the vessel, was sitting next to Victim with his hand held up, making an attempt to block the field of vision for Victim so he would not be looking at the injury. 

I saw three young children, all wearing life jackets, seated inside the bow of the vessel, all alert, calm, and uninjured. I approached Operator, who was wearing a South River Boat Rentals tee-shirt, and asked him to describe to me what had happened. 

He briefly stated that he was operating the vessel when Victim jumped in the water from the swim platform of the vessel and sustained a leg injury from the propeller of the vessel. Operator was asked if he had been drinking or had taken any drugs while out on the waterway. He stated that he had not been drinking at the time of the accident. I did not see any signs of impairment and did not detect an odor of alcoholic beverages coming from Operator while talking to him. 

It was at that time Anne Arundel County Fire and EMS notified me that Victim was going to be transported on Medic Unit to Anne Arundel County Medical Center. They stated that Victim was going to get his wound cleaned up and ensure there were no other injuries Victim had sustained. Victim was unable to get off the vessel himself and had to be lifted off the vessel and carried to the medical stretcher by Anne Arundel County EMS personnel. His mother went with Medic Unit to the hospital. Once Medic Unit had cleared the scene, we followed Operator by boat to South River Boat Rentals to continue obtaining witness statements as to the events that occurred.

While talking to Operator and subject1, they both stated that the group had been tubing right before the accident occurred. Operator added that he was operating at the time and was making an attempt to pick two individuals up who had just fallen off the tube. 

Operator stated he had “just bumped the vessel into reverse” when Victim had jumped from the swim platform located at the stern of the vessel. According to witness statements, Operator immediately ran to the stern of the vessel, while it was drifting in a backwards motion, and immediately grabbed Victim by his life jacket, pulling him back into the vessel. 

Operator stated that initially he did not know Victim was injured. He stated Victim appeared quiet and did not say anything after being picked up out of the water. Then, according to Operator, Victim opened his legs and he could see “three cuts” indicative of a propeller strike on the inside of his right leg by Victim’ knee. After seeing the cuts on Victim’ leg, he stated the individuals on board immediately began treating the laceration to the best of their abilities while he operated back to Gingerville Creek. 

Operator stated that when he saw our patrol vessel in the area, he knew he could get our attention by exceeding the marked 6 knot speed zone, and in doing so, he would be able to alert us of what had just happened. Operator made it clear several times throughout our interview that Victim was wearing a life jacket at the time of the accident.

Officer First Class of the Maryland Natural Resources Police, responded to Anne Arundel Medical Center to obtain witness statements from Victim’ parents. Both statements taken from the parents matched the statements taken from Operator. Ofc. was able to confirm that Victim had sustained a laceration which required stitches and was going to be released from the hospital later that evening.

Operator was hired by the group as a captain to operate the vessel and is employed with South River Boat Rentals. He holds an active United States of America Merchant Mariner Credential, which was issued January 11, 2021. A photograph of Operator’s credential will be included in this report.

At the time of the accident, vessel traffic on the South River was moderate with slight choppy waves estimating approximately six inches due to the vessel traffic. The expected high for the day, according to The Weather Channel, was 83 degrees with a forecast low of 72 degrees. It was mostly cloudy at the time with thunderstorms in the area. Winds were blowing in a south-easterly direction at 11 MPH, expected to shift out of the south at 10 to 15 MPH, with an expected sunset at 2035 hours for the Edgewater area. According to the National Data Buoy Center, at 4:34 PM there was an active Small Craft Advisory that was issued for the area from Sandy Point to North Beach, which would encompass the South River area.

All events occurred in Anne Arundel County, Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2023-0036
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2023-07-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:14:00
State: MD
NameOfBodyOfWater: 3650 Rick Hamilton Place
NearestCityTown: Nanjemoy
County: Charles
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: Y
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Other
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
OtherAccidentCause: Unseen water hazard
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent3: Sinking
RedactedNarrative:
On 07/04/2023 at 10:15 pm, Corporal and I, (Officer First Class of the Maryland Natural Resource Police) received a call from Maryland Natural Resource Police dispatch stating that two subjects were in the water, clinging to a partially submerged vessel on the Potomac River in the area of Maryland Point.

 We responded north of the incident from Smallwood State Park. While en route NRP Dispatch advised that both subject had been removed from the water and taken to Camp Merritt to be evaluated by EMS. We arrived at scene at 11:00 pm. Once on scene, I made contact with the victims who I later identified through their Driver's licenses. Operator1 identified himself as the owner and operator of the vessel. 

 Operator1 stated that he departed from his dock on 07/05/2023 around 7:15 pm. Operator1 stated he was operating his commercial vessel; a 25ft pioneer vessel bearing MD reg.

Operator1 stated he and Occupant left his dock to go to Aquia Creek (VA) to watch fireworks. He advised the fireworks started around 8:35 pm. Operator1 stated the fireworks lasted 35-40 minutes. , Operator1 said after the firework show ended he departed from Aquia Creek heading south back towards his dock. Operator1 said once he got out to the main stem of the Potomac River near Maryland Point (Green Spider Buoy "19"), he felt water on his feet and stopped the boat. 

Operator1 said he attempted to pump the vessel out using the hose from his power wash; however, the vessel was overtaken by waves crashing over the bow of the vessel. Operator1 stated that he and Occupant were rescued from the incident by a Tow Boat US operator. Once they were secure the Tow Boat operator take them to the dock at Camp Merritt. Once on land Operator1 and Occupant denied medical treatment. 

Operator1 stated he used the vessel to work his crab pots earlier that day and experience no issues. Operator1 advised to the best of his knowledge, no contributing incident occurred prior to his vessel capsizing. Operator1 stated that his vessel has a value of $10,000-$15,000.  

 On July 5th, 2023 at 5:23 pm, I made contact with Tow Boat US out of Cobb Island. Subject advised that his Captain rescued the subjects from the river the night on the incident. Subject advised that CAPT had just finished up a tow call in Nanjemoy when the incident was broadcasted by Nanjemoy Fire on the radio. Subject advised that CAPT is also a volunteer at the Nanjemoy Fire Department. Subject stated that CAPT was able to locate the vessel in distress because he saw the bow lights of the sinking vessel. CAPT saw the two subjects holding on to the sinking vessel. The two subjects were not wearing life jackets at the time. Subject advised that CAPT threw the subjects a life ring and was able to successfully secure both subjects on his vessel. CAPT then took the subjects to Camp Merritt to be assessed by medical.

The cause of the incident is unknown, and the vessel unfounded. 

On July 6th, 2023 at 5:25 pm, I made contact with Operator1 for additional information. Operator1 advised that on the night of the incident he may have struck a log on his return trip home after the firework show; however, he is uncertain. Operator1 advised that on July 5th, 2023 himself and Nanjemoy Fire Department attempted to locate the vessel using side scan sonar but was unsuccessful. Operator1 advised that they did locate the vessel's gas can.

All events occurred in Charles County, Maryland


BARDID: MD-2023-0037
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:25:00
State: MD
NameOfBodyOfWater: 419 14th Street, Ocean City
NearestCityTown: Ocean City
County: Worcester
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On July 5, 2023, at 1730 hours I, Officer responded in reference to a vessel accident.  Upon arrival, I observed 58 foot Viking sport fisher named "ELLIE WINS" tied to the dock, and a 2022 Seadoo personal watercraft Maryland registration tied to the dock as well.  I made contact with all partied involved and asked if anyone was injured, and all subjects stated there were no injuries.  I then spoke to all subjects involved.

    The operator of the Seadoo stated the following.  Operator1 stated that she was docking at the fuel pier to obtain fuel.  Operator1 stated that she started to get close to the sport fisher vessel.  Operator1 stated that she thought her vessel was in reverse, but it was not.  Operator1 stated when she gave the vessel throttle it accelerated forward, striking the sport fisher.  Operator1 stated the impact was light, and after she inspected her vessel the next day, she did not observe any damage other than rub marks on the rub rail.  There was a passenger on the Seadoo, who echoed the same story as Operator1.  Again neither party was injured.  

    I made contact with the operator of the sport fisher identified who stated the following.  Operator2 stated that the vessel was tied to the dock and was getting fuel.  Operator2 stated he observed a PWC then accelerate forward striking the vessel.  Operator2 stated that after the PWC struck the sport fisher he observed new damage to the stern of the vessel.  A subject also on the sport fisher and echoed the same story as Operator2.  The sport fisher is further described as a 1998 Viking Sport Fisher documented vessel "ELLIE WINS".  The damage to the vessel is described a tearing of the custom wrap on the stern.  Operator2 estimated the damage to the custom wrap to be $3000.00.  

    The cause of this accident is the operator of the PWC loss of attention to the condition of the vessel.  Both operators in this matter had ample sea time There were no other outside factors that had a factor in this collision.  

    All above events occurred in Worcester County, Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2023-0038
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:50:00
State: MD
NameOfBodyOfWater: Bodkin Creek-Main Stem
NearestCityTown: Pasadena
County: Anne Arundel
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent3: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
On July 1st, 2023, I, Officer, of the Maryland Natural Resources Police, responded to a report of an overturned PWC at the mouth of the Bodkin Creek, Patapsco River. 

Upon arrival, I located an overturned Kawasaki PWC displaying MD Registration with the operator in the water attempting to flip the vessel over. The operator was identified later by his Driver's license.  The operator advised he hit a wave and attempted to turn the vessel back over and start it and was unsuccessful and the vessel began to sink. The PWC was initially occupied by the operator and two juveniles prior to capsizing. No one involved was injured in any manner related to the capsizing of the vessel. 

The operator was questioned and was found he did not have a boaters safety card. The operator was charged with failing to obtain boater safety card. The operator was also charged with negligent and reckless operation for taking juveniles on board his vessel and placing their lives in danger without the proper boater licenses. 

All parties' information was gathered and placed in the boat accident section. Based on the possible damage to the PWC's motor this is classified as over 2,000 worth of damage. 

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


BARDID: MD-2023-0039
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2023-07-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:21:00
State: MD
NameOfBodyOfWater: Assawaman Bay, Ocean City
NearestCityTown: Ocean City
County: Worcester
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On July 7, 2023, at 1530 hours I Officer responded to Island Watersports located at 39084 Harpoon RD, Fenwick, DE, in reference to a vessel accident that occurred during a guided PWC tour given by RT54 Watersports. Upon arrival, I made contact with all the subjects involved and determined that no one was in need of any medical attention.  The first subject I spoke with was the guide who stated the following.  

    Subject stated that on July 7, 2023, at 1500 hours he began to monitor a guided jet ski tour (two jet skis in total) for RT54 Watersports.  The riding area for this tour is the western portion of the Assawomen Bay.  Subject stated he observed a rider later traveling south passing a subject identified as Operator2.  Subject stated that when Operator1 passed Operator2 she went approximately 200 yards past Operator2 and then began a 180-degree turn.  

This caused Operator2 and Operator1 to now be on a reciprocal course.  Subject stated that both riders were on this course at speed.  Subject stated that neither subject attempted to make an evasive maneuver until it was too late.  Subject stated that this caused the jets skis to collide.  Subject stated that he responded to the area of the collision and made sure that no one was injured.  However, Subject observed damage to both jet skis, with one of the jet skis with extensive damage.  Subject then guided both back to the dock.  

    I then spoke with Operator2 who stated the following.  Operator2 stated that he was participating in a guided jet ski tour given by RT54 Watersports.  Operator2 stated that he was traveling on a southern direction when he observed Operator1 pass him.  Operator2 stated that he observed Operator1 turn around, Operator2 stated that now Operator1 was traveling directly at him.  Operator2 stated that he attempted to slow down and turn right however this action was not completed in time and the collision occurred.  I asked Operator2 about how fast he thought he was going, and Operator2 responded about 40 MPH.  Operator2 did make a statement that he suspected that the guide was not paying close enough attention to the group.  Also, Operator2 stated that in his statement that he had some knee discomfort, but did not require medical attention.   

    I then spoke to Operator1 who stated the following.  Operator1 stated that she was participating in a guided jet ski tour given by RT54 Watersports.  Operator1 stated that she was traveling south and was passing Operator2 and was traveling at approximately 40 MPH.  Operator1 stated that she felt she had enough room to turn around and head back the other direction.  Operator1 stated that when she turned around she observed that she was heading directly for Operator2.  Operator1 stated that she attempted to take evasive action to avoid the collision but was unsuccessful.  

    Written statements and photographs were taken and uploaded to this incident.

    It should be noted that Operator1 and Operator2 are juveniles, and they denied medical attention on shore with their parents present.  

    The jet ski that Operator1 was operating was a 2023 Yamaha TR1 Delaware registration, this jet ski had extensive fiberglass damage.  It as estimated to be a total loss of over $10000.00.  This was estimated by the owner of RT54 Watersports.  The jet ski that Operator2 was operating was a 2023 Yamaha TR1 Delaware registration.  This jet ski was estimated to have $600 of damage due some fiberglass damage and rub rail damage.  Both jets ski were removed by the owner.  

    The cause for this collision by both parties were failure to reduce to 6 knots within 100 yards, and several navigational rules violations.  This coupled with operator inexpedience of both parties are the contributing factors to this collision.  Both Operator2 and Operator1 were provided with written warnings for various charges.  

    All above events occurred in Worcester County, Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2023-0040
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:08:00
State: MD
NameOfBodyOfWater: Deep Creek Lake
NearestCityTown: McHenry
County: Garrett
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: Y
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: Y
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
RedactedNarrative:
On July 07, 2023, at approximately 1411 hours, I Officer First Class Maryland Natural Resources Police responded to Garrett Memorial Hospital, Oakland, Garrett County, Maryland for a subject that was injured while tubing on Deep Creek Lake. 

Upon making contact with the subject she identified herself and stated she was attempting to get on a tube and fell off of it on two separate occasions spraining her right shoulder. She stated that the vessel was not moving when she fell off of the tube. She also stated that her husband was operating the vessel bearing registration number. The vessel was rented at Bill's Marine Service in McHenry, Maryland. 

All events occurred in Garrett County, Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2023-0041
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2023-06-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:35:00
State: MD
NameOfBodyOfWater: Assawoman Bay, Ocean City
NearestCityTown: Ocean City
County: Worcester
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Machinery failure
AccidentCause3: Excessive speed
MachineryFailure: Steering
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On 06/24/2023 at approximately 1338 hours Sgt. and I, OFC of the Maryland Natural Resources Police responded to the area of the Assawoman Bay and Madison Avenue for a reported vessel accident involving a PWC with injuries and people still in the water. While en route, DNR communications advised us a Good Samaritan vessel had picked up the victims and transported them to a residence to meet with EMS. It was also reported that an Ocean City EMS was transporting one patient to North Side Park in Ocean City, to be airlifted by Maryland State Police Aviation Command due to the seriousness of sustained injuries. While en route to the residence, Sgt. and I observed a male subject sitting on a black and green PWC at the entrance of the canal. It should be noted the canal and location of the PWC were in Delaware waters.

Upon making contact with the operator of the PWC, he stated he was involved in the vessel accident. Sgt.1 advised DNR communications that the subject was boarding our vessel and we would be towing it to shore. The subject embarked on our vessel and I had him move to the bow of our marked patrol vessel while Sgt.1 was securing the PWC to our vessel. 

The PWC displayed Delaware registration. The male subject later identified himself as Operator1 by his driver’s license. Operator1 kept repeating the steering failed on his PWC and he wasn’t able to turn before he hit the other PWC. Once Sgt.1 had the PWC secured to our vessel, I operated our vessel to the residence further down the canal that Operator1 said where he was staying and EMS was waiting. Operator1 stated it was his PWC and another that was involved in the accident. Operator1 stated his girlfriend was operating the other PWC with two of her friends onboard. The second operator of the PWC was later identified as Operator2. Operator1 stated both of the PWCs belong to Operator2’s family.

Once back at the residence, we secured the PWC to the dock and secured our patrol vessels, and disembarked. Sgt.1 made contact with Ocean City EMS to obtain victim and hospital information, while I stayed with Operator1 and obtained details about the vessel accident. I asked Operator1 where the accident happened and he stated out in the water, past the canal. I provided Operator1 with a map and he pointed to a location in Maryland waters just south of the Maryland/ Delaware line. Operator1 stated his girlfriend was operating the other PWC, with two of her friends on the back. 

Operator1 said Operator2’s family had just purchased the PWC Operator2 was operating earlier in the week. Operator1 said again the steering on his PWC was damaged and he believed the throttle malfunctioned causing him to not be able to reduce speed. I asked Operator1 how fast he was going and he said he remembered seeing “22” on the screen. That would indicate 22 knots or 22 mph, both of which are above the 6knot, 100-foot regulation that Maryland has in place. 

Operator1 asked me questions about the steering malfunction and if I had ever come across that before. Operator1 stated he didn’t have much experience with PWCs and didn’t know much about them. While speaking with Operator1, I detected his speech was slurred and he had an odor of alcoholic beverage on his breath. I advised Sgt.1 of the situation and he had the DNR communication center contact Delaware Natural Resource Police to respond to our location due to being in the state of Delaware. While waiting with Operator1, I asked him how the other PWC and victims got back into shore and he said someone operated the PWC back to the residence, and a boat picked up the severely injured subject and took them to the residence to meet EMS. The operator of that vessel was later identified and he confirmed to Sgt.1 he picked the victims out of Maryland waters.

Once Delaware NRP arrived on the scene, they conducted field sobriety on Operator1 and the results were negative.

While Delaware NRP was conducting field sobriety, Sgt.1 informed me, Maryland NRP Special Operation Division investigators were going to be taking over the vessel accident investigation. Sgt.1 also said Delaware NRP was going to take custody of both PWCs at the request of our investigators, due to the serious injuries sustained by one of the victims.

After Delaware NRP was finished with their investigation with Operator1, I gathered his contact information and told him I’d be in contact with him soon. Delaware NRP assisted us with removing the PWC Operator1 was operating, out of the water after we towed it by vessel to a nearby boat ramp. After removing the vessel, it was observed the PWC didn’t have its hull plugs installed and that’s the reason why the PWC was partially sunk. 

The entire hull/ engine compartment of the PWC was full of seawater.

After clearing the boat ramp, I made contact with OFC., the investigator from MD NRP was assisting me with the vessel accident. OFC. stated she was en route to Tidal Health in Salisbury, Maryland, to conduct interviews of the victims and obtain their information for the report. I explained to her briefly what information I had at that time and the operator of the striking PWC was also en route to Tidal Health, in case she wanted to formally interview him.

I cleared the above locations and returned to service.  The above events occurred in Ocean City, Maryland, and Selbyville, Delaware.

The following day, 06/25/2023, I was informed that Investigations were no longer handling the vessel accident but would continue to assist me with my investigation. The patient that had alleged severe injuries was released from Shock Trauma and without life-threatening injuries after medical evaluations were conducted. 

I made contact with the father of Operator2. He is the owner of the two PWCs that were involved in the accident and I answered any of the questions he had for me at that time. I told him that he would be receiving the PWCs back shortly, due to no longer needing them as evidence. Operator2 stated the PWCs weren’t insured. I told Operator2 to contact me with any questions that he might have, and that another officer would be in contact with him about getting the PWCs back to him.  The investigation is ongoing and charges are pending for negligent operation of a vessel on Operator1.

On 07/02/2023 at approximately 1230 hours I met with Operator1 and issued him three citations.
Negligent operation of a vessel 
Operate a PWC on state waters in excess of 6 knots within 100ft of another vessel
Failure to obey navigation rules of road Rule #8
I answered all of Operator1’s questions and explained the citations in detail.
Cleared without further incident.

Due to the speed and angle of impact, PWC2 acted as a ramp causing PWC1 to launch up and over the steering column of her vessel, consequently striking all three of its persons on board.


BARDID: MD-2023-0042
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:02:00
State: MD
NameOfBodyOfWater: Goose Creek, Welcome
NearestCityTown: Welcome
County: Charles
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On July 1, 2023 at approximately 6:00pm, I, Cpl., was notified by the Maryland Natural Resources Police Communications Center to respond to the University of Maryland Charles Regional Medical Center for a male subject with an injury that occurred on a boat.  I arrived at the hospital at 6:05pm and the Charles County Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Ambulance arrived at 6:18pm with the victim.

    I spoke with the victim inside the hospital, and he stated that he and a few other people were drifting on a vessel in Goose Creek near the mouth of the Port Tobacco River.  Victim stated that he went towards the back right corner of the vessel to pull up the vessel's ladder which was hanging in the water.  When doing so, he slipped on some rain water that was on the vessel from the storm that had just passed through the area.  

When Victim slipped, he fell and struck the vessel's rear right cleat with the lower right side of his abdomen.  As a result, the cleat impaled Victim's abdomen, leaving him dangling from the vessel.  Victim stated that he was able to hoist himself up with his arms “like a man” and immediately told the others onboard to start the boat and get him to Goose Bay Marina (9365 Goose Bay Lane, Welcome, MD 20693) for medical assistance.  

Victim stated that the incident began roughly at 5:30pm.  He also stated that he believed that he nearly lost consciousness a few times and that his vision seemed to be fading in and out.  While at the hospital, Victim was in good spirits and was able to describe the incident, however he could not provide any details about the vessel he was aboard or the registered owner.

    On July 2, 2023, I went to Goose Bay Marina to view camera footage to get identifying numbers off of the vessel.  The footage was distorted due to rain droplets on the camera lens.  When pausing the camera footage, the still images were very blurry and zooming in on the image made it worse.  As a result, I was unable to identify the vessel's owner and the registration numbers.  I was able to see that the vessel was a white ski boat with a blue stripe, approximately 20 feet in length.  After viewing the footage, I asked the employee working in the office if he knew the owner of the vessel.  He stated that he did not and that he didn't recognize that boat or the owner as a frequent customer.

    On July 8, 2023, I met with the victim once again, this time at his residence.  He was still adamant that he was not familiar with whose boat he was on.  He just stated that "people" were having fun, and he ended up on that boat, and then he slipped on it trying to retrieve that ladder that was hanging in the water.  This is the same information that he gave at the hospital.

    After leaving the victim's residence, I went back to Goose Bay Marina and spoke with a different person working in the office.  He was able to provide me with different camera footage that the previous employee was unable to find.  I was able to obtain a clear image from the camera.  The vessel that the victim slipped on is a 2000, white and blue, 20'3'' Stingray 200LX bearing Maryland registration with a hull identification number.  The camera image was from July 1, 2023, at 2:02pm when the vessel arrived at the marina and was preparing to be launched.

    On July 9, 2023, I met with the owner and operator of the vessel at his residence.  He was able to provide the names of the other individuals on the vessel at the time of the incident.  He also described the incident just as the victim did.
    All events occurred in Charles County, Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2023-0044
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2023-07-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 23:06:00
State: MD
NameOfBodyOfWater: Potomac River-Swan Creek Ft Wa
NearestCityTown: Ft. Washington
County: Prince Georges
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: Y
HazardousWaters: Y
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
AccidentCause2: Weather
AccidentCause3: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
On July 3, 2023 at approximately 11:03 PM, I OFC. received a call for a vessel taking on water on the Potomac River near Ft. Washington Park. I was on land at Ft. Washington Park when I received the call. I attempted to use night vision to locate the vessel in distress. I was unable to locate a vessel that looked in distress. I was able to observe 4 subjects walking out of the water at Ft. Washington Park in the area of the reported vessel. 

As I was making my way to National Harbor to get on our vessel, I made contact with PGCO Fire as they came in the Park. They advised one of the subjects advised them all 4 occupants were able to swim to shore at Ft. Washington Park. 

I attempted to locate where I saw the 4 subjects earlier with negative results. I received information from DNR that PGCO Fire made contact with the subjects and were making their way back to the parking lot. I made contact with all 4 subjects and PGCO Fire at 11:33 PM. 

All subjects reported no injuries at time of contact. I was able to identify the vessel owner. He advised they were fishing while anchored, as they pulled the anchor the vessel shifted due to the wind. Subject attempted to lower the motor which would not trim down. At that point they began taking water over the stern of the vessel. 

He attempted to lower and start a back-up motor with no luck. Within about 3 minutes the vessel began to sink. All persons on board attempted to grab PFDs and abandon the vessel. Only 1 subject was able to get a PFD on, the other 3 subjects were able to get on to 2 Yeti Coolers and swim to shore. PGCO Fire units on the water were unable to locate the vessel with sonar before clearing the scene. Possible GPS coordinates of last known are N 38.717923-W 077.033150. USCG was advised of the possible location and provided GPS coordinates for a notice to mariners. PGCO Fire units were able to provide transportation for the subjects back to their vehicles which were located at Ft. Washington Marina. I was able to follow them back and obtain witness statements which have been attached to this report.

All events occurred in Prince Georges County, Maryland.

DC fire boat was able to locate the sunken vessel with sonar on July 7th, GPS coordinates N 38.71795, W 77.03347 in 56 feet of water near the mouth of Swan Creek. Subject has been informed that the vessel has been located. He was advised that he needs to contact a salvage company about recovery of the vessel.


BARDID: MD-2023-0046
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2023-07-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:15:00
State: MD
NameOfBodyOfWater: 69 Hollowing Ln
NearestCityTown: Hughesville
County: Calvert
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: Y
HazardousWaters: Y
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Poor
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
AccidentCause2: Weather
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
On Monday, July 3, 2023, at approximately 10:15 P.M., I, Officer First Class of the Maryland Natural Resourced Police, entered Hallowing Point State Park (Calvert County) to conduct a patrol check. On my arrival, I saw emergency lights activated by Prince Frederick Volunteer Fire Department. I observed two volunteer firefighters near the boat ramp with flashlights looking in the water. They advised that they received a call of a person in the water and screaming for help. 

As I was walking back to my vehicle to assist with their search, I was confronted by a bystander that advised the subject is at the day use area shoreline. Prince Frederick Volunteer Fire Department and I searched the shoreline and was able to locate the victim. I boarded NRP 854 out of the Hallowing Point Duty Station and made contact with Subject. I observed Subject standing inside his vessel that was submerged in water. 

The vessel was on a sand bar near the shoreline with approximately 3 feet of water. Subject was wearing a PFD at the time. I made contact with Subject by approaching the starboard side his vessel. Subject swam to the port side of NRP 854 (with the motor off). Due to the heavy rain and wind, I assisted Subject on board NRP 854 and able to successfully secured him on board. Subject advised that he was the only person on board. Subject and I were underway to the Hallowing Point Duty Station to be transported to Calvert EMS.  Subject advised that he and the vessel was submerged underwater for 1.5 hours, before anyone saw him. While underway to the duty station,  Subject attempted to jump from the bow of NRP 854, in an attempt to secure his vessel on a piling. I advised Subject that he is my priority and will be transporting him to the awaiting EMS units. 

Subject was evaluated by Prince Frederick EMS and declined any further medical treatment. Subject advised that earlier in the day he was engaged in recreational crabbing in Battle Creek (Patuxent River) when he started hearing thunder. Subject advised that he ran aground 100 ft from the Hallowing Pt State Park Day Use area around 9PM. Subject stated that he tried to put his motor in reverse and that when his vessel immediately  started taking in water from the strong current. Subject advised that he lost his phone and could not call for help at the time.

As of July 4, 2023, the vessel was removed from state waters and state lands by Subject.

This case is closed.
All events occurred in Calvert County, Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2023-0047
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-06-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:34:00
State: MD
NameOfBodyOfWater: Severn River-Main Stem
NearestCityTown: Annapolis
County: Anne Arundel
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: Y
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentCause3: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On Sunday, June 18th, at 1534 hours, I, OFC of the Maryland Natural Resources Police, responded to a reported vessel accident that occurred at the mouth of Spa Creek and the Severn River. When I arrived on the scene, I met with the operator and the occupants of the vessel that was struck by an orange SeaDoo.

            The vessel that the above occupants were in was a 2004 17' Boston Whaler Montauk, registration, owned by an occupant at the time of the accident. Subject1's daughter was able to capture pictures of the striking vessel, a 2017 orange SeaDoo, registration. As explained by the above occupants of the damaged vessel, they were inside the Spa Creek speed zone going at or under 6 knots, when they observed an orange SeaDoo being operated in a negligent manner, and attempting to jump the wake of other vessels in the speed zone. They estimated that the SeaDoo was going at least 20 mph. 

The SeaDoo was headed in a southerly direction across the speed zone subsequently headed directly toward Subject1's starboard side of his vessel, being operated by his daughter, who has a valid boater safety certificate and numerous years of boating experience. The occupants of the Boston Whaler began yelling and waving to get the attention of Operator2, when Operator1, with a last ditch effort to avoid collision, took a sharp left turn in hopes of avoiding the approaching SeaDoo. Operator2 made contact with the starboard transom of the Boston Whaler, causing Operator2 to turn to his starboard side, while the port side of his SeaDoo made contact with the Boston whaler. After the incident when I met with Subject1 and the other occupants, I observed damaged to the rub rail, and a minor scratch on the motor of the Boston whaler. There were no personal injuries reported. 

            Operator1 further explained that as Operator2 slowed down, he stated, "I'm fine," as they were attempting to address the collision and exchange information. Operator2 provided his name, phone number, and the company that he owns and operates. Subject1 explained that Operator2 immediately, stated, "I had water in my eye" and that Operator2 also explained that he could fix the damage, even though he felt there was not much damage.  

They explained that they were going to be contacting MD NRP, and Operator2 stated that he was going to go catch up with his wife, who was on another orange SeaDoo ahead of him, and come back, but he never returned. After gathering this information, I contacted our dispatch to notify NRP units in Kent County, Rock Hall, to be on the lookout (BOLO) for an orange SeaDoo with New Jersey registration. Not long after, I received notification from OFC., who patrols the Rock Hall area, he explained that prior to any notification of the BOLO, he made a stop on the above 2017 orange SeaDoo, operated by Operator2 near the local public boat ramp. They issued Operator2 a warning for exceeding 6mph in the Rock Hall Harbor speed zone, and a warning for use of vessel with expired registration. By the time this information was provided, Operator2 had pulled his vessel from the boat ramp and presumably was in route back to his residence.

            OFC. and OFC. responded to Operator2's residence. They made contact with Operator2 and he stated that he was operating the SeaDoo and was involved in a collision in Annapolis. I had OFC. place me on speakerphone to address the situation. Operator2 stated that he was not going fast in the speed zone, but did admit fault to the collision, stating, "I can fix the damages, no problem." He explained that he provided his information and assumed Subject1 would reach out to address the situation further and how things will be fixed. 

Operator2 explained that he was outside the speed zone and was not going fast at the time of the collision and if anything the Boston whaler was going too fast in the speed zone. He told OFC. that he was taking both SeaDoos on a sea trial with his wife, after doing work on them for his business. 

After discussing the entire situation with both Subject1 and Operator2, Subject1 felt that having Operator2 charged with numerous violations would do nothing, and that all he wanted was for Operator2 to understand that he could've injured or killed somebody on his boat, and he does not want something like this to happen again to another family trying to enjoy time on the water. Subject1 requested that we issue warnings, as he felt court proceedings and fines will do nothing. I issued Operator2 the following Maryland Natural Resources warnings:
                Speeding in the Spa Creek speed zone
                Operating a PWC in excess of 6 knots w/in another vessel
                Operating a PWC in a negligent manner endangering life and property
                Failure to obtain a boaters safety certificate
             After further discussion with Operator2 and Subject1, they both agreed to work it out to get the repairs completed, as it was initially thought that damage estimate was under $2,000. On July 4, 2023, I received a text message, in the evening, from Operator1, that they received a damage estimate back from Zam Marine, located at 748 Warren Drive, Annapolis, MD 21401. 

The estimate was totaled at $6,675.00. The estimate and the photos taken by Zam Marine are attached to this report. When I returned from vacation, on July 10, 2023, I made contact with Subject1 and provided him with the report number and the next steps. I also contacted Operator2 to further obtain insurance information. His estimated damage to the SeaDoo was approximately $500, which he intends to repair himself. Operator2 will be providing me with that information in the next few days. His liability insurance is through his business. Subject1's insurance on the 17' Boston Whaler was through Geico. As of today, July 14, 2023, I am still waiting to receive the insurance information from Operator2. Operator2 stated that his business counterpart is currently on vacation, and he will get the information when he returns from vacation, to forward to me. I explained to both parties that once this report is completed that it is a civil matter involving their insurance companies. A vessel accident report was completed and attached to this report as it exceeds the $2,000 damage minimum.
All events occurred in Anne Arundel County, MD.
This case is closed.


BARDID: MD-2023-0048
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-06-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:30:00
State: MD
NameOfBodyOfWater: Miles River-Leeds Creek
NearestCityTown: St Michaels
County: Talbot
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On June 18, 2023, at approximately 4:32 P.M., I, Ofc. along with Cpl., both of the Maryland Natural Resources Police, received a call for service from the DNR communications center for a person ejected from a Personal Watercraft (PWC) in the area of Leeds Creek on the Miles River.

    At approximately 4:45 P.M., I arrived at the scene in NRP843, near land. I observed two individuals in the water wearing PFDs with the unoccupied PWC displaying Maryland registration, approximately 150 yards away from the individuals in the water. 

I observed another PWC displaying Maryland registration, with one individual onboard the PWC waving his arms. I attempted to lift Operator1 onto NRP 843 when he yelled out in pain. As I was repositioning Operator1 so I could pull him onto the patrol vessel, St. Michael’s Fire Boat arrived at the scene with a better means to pull Operator1 onto a vessel. 

Operator1 and Subject1 were pulled aboard the fire boat where Cpl. assisted in bringing the individuals onto the vessel. With both individuals onboard, the fire boat headed to where Talbot County Emergency Services were staged to await for their arrival. I assisted Operator2 with the retrieval and securing of the victim’s vessel before going to assist Cpl. with removing Operator1 from the fire boat.

    At approximately 5:00 P.M., Talbot County EMS departed the area to transport Operator1 to Easton Memorial Hospital (Run # 2023-00044195.) Subject1 and Operator2 operated the PWCs back to Oak Creek Landing where their vehicle and trailer were located. We arrived at Oak Creek Landing at approximately 5:15 P.M., where witness statements were obtained from both operators of the PWCs. 

The operator of the victim's vessel stated they were cruising at approximately 30mph when they were hit by vessel wake on the starboard side of the PWC. This caused both individuals to be ejected off the PWC and into the water. Subject1 noticed Operator1 was having issues swimming and yelling in pain. Subject1 stated there were no vessels in the nearby area except for Operator2 which was approximately 50 yards in front of them. Subject1 held onto Operator1 as Operator2 turned around and realized the situation. Operator2 called 911 after observing the limited mobility of Operator1. No damage occurred to any vessel.

    All events occurred in Talbot County, Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2023-0049
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-06-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:52:00
State: MD
NameOfBodyOfWater: Upper Chesapeake Bay
NearestCityTown: Havre De Grace
County: Harford
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On June 18, 2023 at approximately 1053 hours I, Officer First Class, was called to the Havre de Grace Yacht Basin for the report of a subject that was injured while boating. I arrived at the Havre de Grace Yacht Basin at approximately 1120 hours and observed an ambulance leaving the area. I met with Havre de Grace Police and was informed that the subject, would be flown by helicopter to R Adams Cowley Shock Trauma in Baltimore, Maryland. 

I then met with the family who was nearby the fuel pumps at the Yacht Basin with the vessel, a 23 ft Sportsman to gather information about what caused the injury. 

Subject was operating the vessel leaving the Yacht Basin and turning out into the channel toward Fishing Battery Island and the Upper Chesapeake Bay when another vessel was passing. The passing vessel left a normal wake and Operator turned into the wake and came down. When the vessel came down off of the wake the vessel landed hard. 

Victim is said to have had at least two back surgeries and the landing from the wake is assumed to have re-aggravated the previous injuries. Two others separately provided the same account of events. Victim was intubated and unresponsive when transported and flown and was unable to give an account of the events that led to the injury.

All events occurred in Harford County, Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2023-0050
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-06-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:34:00
State: MD
NearestCityTown: Galesville
County: Anne Arundel
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: Y
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (non-fuel)
RedactedNarrative:
On 06/04/2023 at approximately 1645 while on patrol, I Officer and Officer of the Maryland Natural Resources Police, were dispatched to a vessel fire located on the West River. 

While responding to the West River, we were informed that the reported fire was taking place on a white sailboat with a blue stripe, however no further info was provided.

Upon entering the West River, we were able to make contact with Fireboat, who informed us that the vessel in question had been towed to Hartge Yacht Marina in Galesville. Fireboat also informed us that by the time they arrived on scene, the alleged fire had already been extinguished by the occupants of the vessel.

Upon arrival at Hartge Yatch Marina, myself and Off. were able to find a sailboat matching the description. We located a 1993 Cataina 30' bearing Maryland registration was tied to the nearest bulkhead at the marina from where the fire was initially reported. We made contact with two subjects, identified by their Drivers Licenses. 

According to both parties, as they were returning to the West River, both parties began to smell what they believed was something burning coming from within the vessel. After smelling something burning, Subject opened the door to the cabin of his sailboat, and smoke began emanating from the cabin. Subject then entered the cabin of the vessel and opened the engine compartment, where he identified the smoke to be coming from. Though Subject never observed flames coming from the engine compartment, Subject used two full fire extinguishers in an attempt to stop the smoking and as a precautionary measure. According to Subjects, they believed a belt came off of their motor, which then caused the burning smell and smoke. At the conclusion of our interaction, I gave both occupants my information and told them to call me back when a mechanic comes out and assess the damage.

Subject stated the fan belt on the engine wrapped around the alternator on the motor and got incinerated, which was the cause of all the smoke coming from the engine bay. An evaluation by mechanics determined the cost of the damage to exceed $2,000 dollars.

 All events occurred in Anne Arundel County, Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2023-0052
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:00:00
State: MD
NameOfBodyOfWater: Sparrows Point
NearestCityTown: Back River
County: Baltimore
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
RedactedNarrative:
On the above date and time, I responded in reference to a boat accident involving a dock and one vessel.  Upon arrival, I spoke with the event coordinator who had been on site.  H advised that a large white Carver cabin boat equipped with a fly bridge had backed into one of the paid slips at the location.  

At this time, the coordinator spoke with the subject and explained that the slips are not first come first serve, they are already purchased ahead of time strictly for the event.  Directly following this verbal argument, the operator placed the boat in gear and accelerated out of the slip at a high rate of speed which in turn positioned his anchor light directly behind the permanently placed string of lights that are supported by tow poles across every slip at the location.  

As the vessel left the slip, the lights that were now indirectly attached to the vessel bent and damaged the support poles which rendered that specific slip useless for the time being.  The coordinator advised that the vessel left the location immediately after the incident.  He then advised at this point, the vessel is gone and the event will still go on and was not worried about charges for further investigation.

Marine Unit officers were able to make contact with the vessel owner later that day due to vessel description.  The vessel operator advised that he did not intentionally pull the lights down or damage the support poles.  He advised that it was a simple mistake that was a result of an unnecessary argument.  The Operator advised that he knows a few of the coordinators and managers at the location and had every intention of discussing the damages with them after the conclusion of the three day event.  information was exchanged between both parties for reimbursement and or civil charging information.


BARDID: MD-2023-0053
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2023-07-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:58:00
State: MD
NameOfBodyOfWater: Solomons Harbor at Patuxent Ri
NearestCityTown: Solomons
County: Calvert
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
RedactedNarrative:
At 6:59 pm, on July 4th, 2023,  I Officer of the Maryland Natural Resources Police received a call for a PWC accident at Harbor Island Marina. I arrived on scene at the dock aboard NRP874 with Officer at approximately 7:05 pm. Both PWCs were already tied to the dock and all parties were back on land. The PWCs involved in the accident were both 2023 white and reef blue colored Sea Doo GTX Pro 130 rentals through SOMD Water Sports LLC. As I stepped off the boat Subject1 immediately pointed me in the direction of the injured parties which were the occupants of the #1 PWC.

I observed both occupants of the #1 PWC making their way back to the parking lot. The operator was assisting the passenger to their vehicle. Both occupants sustained injuries. Operator1 was bleeding from the right side of his head above his ear and had some bruising on his lower stomach. V1 occupant had swelling and pain near the outside of her right shin. 

The operator stated that they were T-boned on the right side of their PWC by another PWC. Operator1 stated he was fine and did not need medical attention. He stated his girlfriend, V1 occupant, was injured, and he was taking her to the Hospital on base. I advised them that EMS was already en route and Solomons Island was gridlocked due to fireworks and holiday traffic. They agreed to wait until EMS arrived. V1 occupant sat in the passenger side of the vehicle with a bag of ice on her lower leg while I gathered their information.

When I asked Operator1 what happened again, he claimed they had just broken the 6-knot zone leaving Solomons Harbor when both PWCs accelerated in speed. Operator1 stated he was traveling towards the direction of the base (which is located across the other side of the Patuxent River off towards the right) when he and his girlfriend were struck from the right and thrown off their PWC into the water. When I asked Operator1 if he was traveling in a straight direction, he responded “yes”.  Operator1 did not claim fault, but he did mention twice that he should have looked to his side.

While I was dealing with the injured party, Officer spoke with the operator and sole occupant of the #2 PWC. Operator2 claimed no injury and had no visible injury.  Officer also spoke with Operator2’s friend, who was a witness to the accident. Subject2 was operating another PWC within the rental group and claimed she observed Operator1 run into Operator2. Subject2 advised that she was riding behind both parties when she observed Operator1 hit Operator2. Subject2 also stated that Operator2’s PWC flew up into the air when Operator1 hit her and both parties went into the water.

Solomons ambulance & fire on scene at 7:27 pm. V1 occupant was evaluated and later transported to Calvert Memorial Hospital. Operator1 was evaluated by ambulance and refused transportation from EMS. Operator1 claimed he would drive himself to Calvert Memorial to be with his girlfriend and get stitches. Operator2 also spoke with EMS on scene and did not claim the need for further medical assistance.

Officer attempted to have Operator2 contact a guardian as she was a juvenile. Calls would not go through due to the mass amount of people on Solomons Island for the 4th of July causing cell tower issues. Since Operator2 claimed no injury from the accident, was checked out by EMS, and arrived with an adult (Subject2), Sgt. approved her to be released back to that adult. I noticed Operator2 with an ice pack in the marina parking lot as she waited to be released. I heard her tell Subject2 “I didn't even want this I was just hot”. She asked Officer if he wanted it and even made a joke about ditching it, but not wanting to litter in front of the police, so she would take it with her to throw away.

Subject1 stated that Operator1 was at fault. Subject1 claimed he was behind both PWCs when he observed Operator1 cut off Operator2. Subject1 stated Both PWCs were on plane at approximately 30-35mph and Operator1 veered to the right in front of Operator2 causing the collision. Subject1 stated both PWCs flipped, and the occupants went in the water. Subject1 stated that during all the confusion, the occupants swapped PWCs when they got back on and went back to the dock. PWC #2 had visible blood from Operator1 operating it back to the dock.  

I obtained witness statements from Operator1, Subject2, and Subject1 which are uploaded to this report.

PWC #1 has visible damage on the right forward half where one of the reef blue-colored pieces broke off, and the bottom piece is dented/cracked. There are black scuffs in the same area on the white part of the PWC from the point of impact. There is also a crack on the right rear side of the PWC above the footwell. Subject1 stated that since PWC #1 is cracked, he thinks it will be a total loss. He estimated the value of the PWC at $12,700. Pictures of PWC damages are uploaded to this report.

All events occurred in Calvert County, MD

I attempted to contact Operator2's mother on July 10th, 2023 with negative results. I left a message and called back on July 13th, 2023 with negative results. I called again and spoke with Operator2’s mom on July 14th, 2023. Operator2’s mom advised that her daughter went to the hospital 2 days after the accident on July 6th, 2023. Operator2’s mom stated that Operator2 had a concussion and contusion as well as some bruising on her leg, back, neck, and heel. I explained to Operator2’s mom that at the time of the accident, Operator2 did not appear to be injured and expressed that she had no injuries. I also explained that EMS evaluated Operator2 on scene and cleared her. Operator2’s mom stated that Operator2 told her she blacked out in the water. When EMS asked Operator2 if she lost consciousness she stated that she did not. Operator2’s mom also stated that Operator2 does not know her number by heart. Officer had Operator2 use her own phone to attempt contacting her mother to which she claimed the call would not go through. I explained to Operator2’s mom that since Operator2 did not advise us of any injury, appeared to be uninjured, was evaluated by EMS, and was with an adult SGT approved her to be released to that adult. 

I spoke with Subject1 on July 13th, 2023, and he reported the PWC would not result in a total loss. He totaled the damages of materials and labor to $762.97.

All events occurred in Calvert County MD.


BARDID: MD-2023-0054
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:24:00
State: MD
NameOfBodyOfWater: Ches Bay & Tribs-Bay Brg-Cove
NearestCityTown: Stevensville
County: Anne Arundel
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Other
AccidentCause3: Hull failure
OtherAccidentCause: Unseen water hazard
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
On July 13, 2023, at approximately 1:30 P.M., I, Officer First Class, of the Maryland Natural Resources Police, received a call for service in reference to an individual who had been floating with a life jacket in the Chesapeake Bay near Thomas Point Lighthouse for a half hour. 

     As I began to make my response to the call, A/LT. of MD NRP, instructed me to respond to Thomas Point Park to try and observe the individual floating, and assist other officers. At approximately 1:45 pm, I was advised United States Coast Guard was able to retrieve SUBJECT from the water, at GPS coordinates (N 38.87376, W-076.43119) and later transport him to the USCG Station Annapolis, located at 3425 Thomas Point Rd., Annapolis, MD. 

     I then met with SUBJECT at USCG Station Annapolis. SUBJECT was questioned by Anne Arundel Fire Department about any injuries or trauma that may have been caused during the incident at which time SUBJECT stated that he was not injured and refused further medical treatment. 

     SUBJECT described the incident with Ofc., of MD NRP, and I stated that he had trailered his vessel, identified as a black, PWC, Sea-doo displaying current Maryland registration, and left from Discovery Village and went toward the area of Bloody Point Lighthouse, located at the southern point of Kent Island. 

SUBJECT continued stating that while in the area of Bloody Point, he observed a stick in the water and then hit a rock or something under the water. SUBJECT stopped the PWC, and attempted to reach underneath the bottom of his vessel, while still in the operator's seat, to attempt to feel for any damages. SUBJECT stated he was unable to feel or notice any damages to the PWC and continued his way back to Discovery Village. 

While on his way back, SUBJECT advised that he was operating at approximately 40 MPH, for 10 minutes when he noticed the PWC start smoking and taking on enough water forcing him to get off before it rolled over. SUBJECT was able to grab his bags and work phone from the vessel before he attempted swimming toward shore. After 30 minutes or more SUBJECT contacted 911 due to exhaustion of swimming less than a hundred yards from where he left his PWC. 

     After gathering the description and information about the accident, Ofc. provided SUBJECT with the number for TowBoat US to get their commercial assistance to tow the PWC out of the Chesapeake Bay to Discovery Village where it could be placed back on his trailer. I then transported SUBJECT from USCG Station Annapolis to Discovery Village.

     After arriving at Discovery Village we met with TowBoat US and the vessel in tow. SUBJECT was able to place the PWC on a trailer at approximately 4:00 PM when we observed a gash in the bottom of the haul, gushing water, underneath the operator seat measuring about 16” long and ½” wide. After further inspection of the vessel, it appeared that the gash was the only physical damage that occurred during the incident. SUBJECT stated it would be at least $2,000 to repair the damages and would need to have the motor checked for damages at a later time.

All events occurred in Anne Arundel and Queen Anne's Counties, Maryland.
This case is closed.


BARDID: MD-2023-0055
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:14:00
State: MD
NameOfBodyOfWater: Curtis Creek
NearestCityTown: Curtis Bay
County: Anne Arundel
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
RedactedNarrative:
On Wednesday, July 3, 2023 at 1624 hours, I Officer First Class responded at the request of Special Operations Division Duty Officer Sgt., to the area of Solleys Cove Park in reference to a boating incident. I was briefed that field officers were on scene of a reported missing boater, from a jon boat found unoccupied, circling in Curtis Creek. While en route I contacted Sgt. in reference to responding for search management. Ofc. also responded to assist with the investigation.

Scene Interviews
            Upon my arrival, I made contact with Sgt., who was the Supervisor on scene. Sgt. advised that the missing boater was identified, and directed me to friends and family members who had already arrived.

            I made met with subject1 who advised that he was friends with Victim, and knew him from a horseshoe league. Subject1 stated he was crabbing on Curtis Creek earlier that day, and saw Victim also crabbing. Subject1 advised that he observed Victim was operating a new boat, and felt that it was likely overpowered for its size. Subject1 advised that Victim had two other people on board with him when he saw him that morning, but did not know who they were. Subject1 stated that Victim was crabbing in the area of the railroad bridge near the Coast Guard Station. Subject1 advised that he also saw Victim on his return trip still crabbing at approximately 1245 hours. Subject1 stated that Victim no longer had people with him in the boat. Subject1 advised that he observed a hat that field officers recovered from the water, and confirmed that the hat was the one Victim had been wearing earlier that day.
           I met with Victim’s daughter, accompanied by her mother. Subject2 advised that she last saw Victim that morning (July 3). Subject2 advised that he was wearing a hat and a red shirt when he left the house. Subject2 further described Victim as having gray hair with a beard, and no scars or tattoos. Subject2 advised that Victim was not an experienced boater, and that she believed this was his first trip in the boat, as he had just purchased it from a friend / coworker. Subject2 advised that Victim could not swim. Subject2 stated that Victim did not consume alcohol nor drugs to her knowledge. Subject2 advised that Victim was diagnosed in the past with high blood pressure and congestive heart failure, for which he was prescribed medication. Subject2 did not know the medication type / dosage nor if Victim took the medication as prescribed. Subject2 stated that Victim also had a recent leg injury that could affect his ability to swim / walk.
            Subject2 stated that she last spoke with Victim on the telephone earlier that morning. Subject2 advised that Victim told her he had gotten a line tangled in his propeller, but had gotten it clear with the assistance of a passerby boater, and he was not in distress at that time. Subject2 advised that she became concerned when she could not reach Victim on subsequent phone calls, so she responded to Solleys Cove Park and found the search underway. Subject2 provided the first names of the people who had been on the boat, but she was unable to provide further information about them at that time.
             Ofc. met with the registered owner of the vessel and obtained a written statement from him.
Evidence
            I received a black hat and a DVD from Sgt. while on scene. The hat was recovered in the creek by Off. (and referenced prior by Subject1 as belonging to Victim). The DVD was of video surveillance from the Curtis Bay Coast Guard Station obtained by U.S. Coast Guard Security Forces Officer. I later observed the footage which showed a distant vessel briefly come into frame, possibly unmanned. Due to pixilation I was unable to observe any details of the vessel for positive identification. The hat and DVD were later stored as evidence at the Natural Resources Police Broadneck Office.
Vehicle / Vessel Inspection
           Field units located Victim’s vehicle in the parking lot of Solleys Cove Park. The vehicle was a black Chevrolet Silverado bearing Maryland registration, with an attached boat trailer bearing Maryland registration. The vehicle was in a secure condition, and was photographed by Ofc..
             Off. and Cadet towed the recovered vessel to Solleys Cove Park. Off. stated that she found the boat circling slowly counter clockwise with no one on board. Off. advised that she nosed her vessel into the jon boat, and Cadet stepped off onto it. Cadet stated that he disturbed nothing other than the tiller and shifter of the vessel to operate it.
             The vessel was a 14ft Lowe jon boat bearing Maryland registration. Crabbing gear within the vessel was labelled with the number, which when referenced in the LTD database, was found to be Victim’s DNR ID#. I observed no obvious damage to the hull, but observed cut marks on the lower unit and propeller. The engine cut off switch was in place and appeared to have not been in use. There were three personal flotation devices on board. The trailer was removed from Victim’s truck and utilized to remove the vessel from the water. Ofc. photographed the vessel, which was then towed to the Maryland Natural Resources Police Matapeake facility for safe keeping by Off..
            On July 4, at approximately 0900 hours, I responded to the Matapeake facility to further inspect the vessel. After inspection, I contacted the registered owner and arranged to deliver the vehicle back to his custody. I transported the vessel to his residence where I released it.
Additional Interviews
            While returning the vessel, I interviewed him regarding the incident. Subject3 advised that he was the registered owner of the vessel, and was in the process of selling the boat to Victim, who was his coworker. Subject3 advised that he had accepted money from Victim for the boat two days prior, and intended to give the title to Victim on July 4. Subject3 advised that the markings on the lower unit and propeller were not there prior to Victim taking the boat. Subject3 stated that he responded to Solleys Cove Park when called by NRP about the vessel. Subject3 consented to me providing his contact information to Victim’s family to resolve ownership of the vessel.
            I contacted Victim’s eldest daughter and apprised her of the situation. Subject4 confirmed Victim’s medical history as stated by Subject2, but likewise could not advise of medication types or dosages. Subject4 provided me with the contact information of the two others onboard.
             I made contact with the two others via telephone. Subject5 advised that they had been out with Victim on the vessel the morning of the day he went missing. Subject5 stated that they went underway from Solleys Cove Park at approximately 0800 hours, and spent the morning cruising around and crabbing. Subject5 advised that he and Subject6 were dropped back off at Sollys Cove at approximately 1130 hours, but Victim went back out to do some more crabbing. Subject5 advised that Victim’s condition seemed normal, and that he had not consumed any alcohol or drugs. Subject5 advised that Victim was not wearing a life jacket. Subject5 confirmed Victim’s attire as a black hat, red shirt, and stated he was wearing dark-colored shorts. Subject6 confirmed Subject5’s telling of events.
            


BARDID: MD-2023-0056
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2023-07-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:39:00
State: MD
NameOfBodyOfWater: 352 Commerce St Havre de Grace
NearestCityTown: Havre de Grace
County: Harford
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (unknown origin)
RedactedNarrative:
On July 3rd 2023 at approximately 04:35 pm, I Officer of the Maryland Natural Resources Police heard a call come over Havre De Grace Police Departments radio channel for a boat fire at the Yacht Basin.  I confirmed with Havre de Grace PD that there was an active emergency and notified the Natural Resources Police Communications center at 4:40pm that I would be responding.  While en route I notified Sgt of the situation.

After arriving on scene I met with the Incident Commander who advised me that there was one boat actively on fire, a second boat located to the left of the main vessel, with heavy fire damage, and a third boat located to the right with minimal fire damage.  I then began to help Susquehanna Hose company in delegating resources for the fire.  While speaking with the Incident Commander, I was introduced to the owner of the vessel located to the left of the Vessel #1.  

Subject1 advised me that his friend owned a company that could help with pumping out the boats, so the Incident Commander and I began working with him on bringing in those resources.  Towboat US would then arrive at  the scene and take over the job of pumping out both vessels and he would cancel the other company.  this time I received a call from Lieutenant who advised me that she had spoken to Captain Garren who told her the Fire Marshals office would be handling the investigation.  At this time the United States Coast Guard arrived on scene and I began discussing the incident with them. 

At approximately 06:11pm the State Fire Marshal's arrived on scene.  I spoke with Deputy State Fire Marshal and explained to him that I was informed their office would be handling the investigation.  At that time the State Fire Marshals began interviewing the boat owners and witnesses as well as photographing the scene.  Before clearing the scene I gathered basic information for each owner from the Fire Marshals which included:

I cleared the scene at approximately 07:15pm 

On July 7,2023, I received a call from Deputy State Fire Marshal in which he told me that at this time in the investigation the cause of the fire could not be determined and that when he finished his report he would send me a copy.  

All events occurred in Harford County.


BARDID: MD-2023-0057
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2023-07-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:24:00
State: MD
NameOfBodyOfWater: Stoney Creek-Main Stem
NearestCityTown: Pasadena
County: Anne Arundel
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentCause3: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On July 13th,2023, at around 2:50 P.M., I, Officer First Class, of the Maryland Natural Resources Police, responded to a call for a Personal Watercraft (PWC) that struck a piling on Stoney Creek. Upon arriving at a dock, I was met with a black male wearing a blue PFD sitting on the dock. 

He stated that he was on a PWC and hit a piling and was thrown from the watercraft. Subject advised that he was not injured and did not want to be checked by emergency medical services. The blue 2021 BRP Spark UP3 with Maryland Registration was located about 40ft away under a neighboring pier with heavy bow damage. When speaking with Subject, he stated that "She told us to stay away from things." and "I know I was way too close." 

        Photos were taken at the scene and statements were received by Subject and from the owner of the PWC. Subject was transported back to Nabbs Creek Marina and was issued Citations for Reckless Operation of a Vessel, Operating a PWC over 6 knots within 100ft of a structure, and Failure to obey Navigation Rules (Improper Lookout). Due to the amount of damage to the PWC, a USCG Boat Accident Report was completed.

        All events occurred within Anne Arundel County, Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2023-0058
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:30:00
State: MD
NameOfBodyOfWater: 25763 Rumbley Rd, Westover
NearestCityTown: Westover
County: Somerset
WaterConditions: Choppy
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On 7/09/23 I, Officer of the Maryland Natural Resources Police, received a call for service from DNR Communications to respond for the following: boat accident with at least two people injured, one black in color pontoon vessel with teenagers onboard was involved in the accident and did not stop at the scene, several intoxicated people were at the scene, Maryland State Police, Somerset Sheriff's Office and Princess Anne EMS were responding, as well. I advised DNR Communications the following information: I am responding, notify the United States Coast Guard(USCG), and to see if USCG would respond to look for the pontoon boat, I also asked DNR Communication to have Crisfield Police Department to check the local boat ramps for a vessel matching the description.

 When I arrived at the scene at Rumbley Boat Ramp, I observed the following: Princess Anne EMS personnel were attending to the two injured patients (one white male and one white female, and both were alert/conscious), Somerset Sheriff's Office Deputies were gathering information, and approximately 4-6 people standing by the boat ramp. 

I was approached by a female subject, and she stated the following: she was the person that called 9-1-1, she was advised not to call 9-1-1 by people on the boat, and the female patient being treated was her friend. 

I asked Subject1 if she could tell me what happened, and she said yes. She stated the following: she and her friends were leaving the beach and were heading back to Goose Creek. Operator2 stopped the vessel and another vessel struck them in the rear/right side (starboard) of the boat. The force of the impact caused V2 occupant1 to get ejected from the boat and into the water. 

Another passenger had his right knee pinned between the two boats. Passengers on Operator2' boat were able to retrieve V2 occupant1 and transported the injured subjects to Rumbley Boat Ramp. I asked Subject1 where I could locate the vessels involved in this incident and the operators for them. Subject1 responded with the following: they aren't coming back, and no one would say anything. I asked Subject1 to elaborate, and she said that she can't because no one wants to get into trouble. Subject1 would not identify the other operator. She stated that everyone was mad at her for calling 9-1-1 and would not talk to her.  I asked Subject1 if she would complete a voluntary written statement, and she said she would. It should be noted that Subject1 was very hesitant to cooperate, she did not know where the accident had taken place, did not want to name the operator for the other vessel, and I detected the smell of an  alcoholic beverage on her breath and person.

 I was approached by another female, stating the following about the incident: she did not witness the accident, she was with the people involved at the beach, her brother, Operator2, was the vessel operator when his boat was hit, she cannot locate her brother, she attempted to call and text him, but no response, the two vessels that were involved in the accident were her brother's and Operator1 boat. 

I asked Subject2 where were the vessels that were involved in the incident, and she replied that she did not know. I requested Subject2 to notify me when her brother contacts her, he needs to see me immediately, and she replied she would. Subject2 remained at the scene to consult with other witnesses and MSP while looking for her brother. It should be noted that while talking to Subject2 about the whereabouts of her brother, unidentified Princess Anne EMS personnel approached us and stated the following: one vessel was pulled out of the water via boat trailer and was sitting at the corner of Claude Hall Rd and Rumbley RD and the other vessel (dark in color center console) was tied up at Goose Creek Marina. Subject2 and I walked to the location of the vessels, and we were approached by the injured male.


 V2 occupant2 notified me that he was refusing medical treatment. V2 occupant2 stated that his left shoulder and his right knee were hurting badly but did not want to get it checked out. I asked V2 occupant2 if he could tell me what happened and V2 occupant2 stated the following: they were in the area of Dynamite Ditch (Mine Creek) on Operator2 boat, returning to Rumbley Boat Ramp, Operator2 slowed the boat down, a vessel struck Operator2' boat on the stern (rear) and continued down the starboard side of Operator2' boat, briefly pinned V2 occupant2's right knee between the two boats, and the impact of the accident ejected V2 occupant1 from Operator2' boat and into the water. I asked V2 occupant2 if he could tell me where everyone was positioned on the boat prior to the accident and V2 occupant2 stated the following: Operator2 (operator) was behind the wheel of the vessel, V2 occupant2 was standing on the right side of Operator2 on the starboard side, and three others were sitting in the bow of the boat. V2 occupant2 was not sure about the striking vessel, and he was hesitant when being asked about the suspect's vessel. I asked V2 occupant2 if he would be willing to complete a written witness statement, and he said yes. While talking to V2 occupant2, I observed Subject3 walking towards the car and made contact with him.

 I asked Subject3 if he could tell me what happened, and he said the following: Subject3 and his friends were in the area of Dynamite Ditch on Operator2 boat, they were returning to Rumbley Boat Ramp, Operator2 (operator) slowed the vessel down and was hit by another vessel in the back of the boat, his girlfriend (V2 occupant1) was ejected from the boat, and he went to retrieve her. I asked Subject3 did he know the boat or operator that hit Operator2' boat, and he initially said no and avoided eye contact. 

I asked Subject3 was the other vessel involved in the accident at the Marina or in the area. Subject3, still avoiding eye contact said no. I stated to Subject3 we are trying to locate the vessel/operator responsible for the accident because his girlfriend and V2 occupant2 were reporting significant injuries. Subject3 made eye contact with me and pointed to a blue in color vessel that was tied up in the slip. I asked Subject3 to specifically identify the vessel since there were approximately 10 boats in the direction of where he was pointing. Subject3 stated the blue in color vessel with the red in color canopy (red in color pop-up tent). 

I asked Subject3 did he know the vessel operator, and he said yes, it was Operator1. I asked Subject3 was Operator1 the owner of the vessel, and he said yes. Subject3 stated that he knew Operator1 and that it was an accident. I asked Subject3 if there was anyone else on Operator1 boat, and he did not answer the question. I asked Subject3 would he be willing to complete a written statement, and he said yes. 

It should be noted that Subject3 was very hesitant with his answers. Subject3 made it very clear that he just wanted to see V2 occupant1 and did not know the location of Operator2 or Operator1. While talking to Subject3 I detected the smell of an alcoholic beverage on his breath and person and advised him to get a sober operator to take him to the hospital. Subject3 was walking towards the vehicle to our right, a black in color pick-up truck, with an unidentified black male in the driver's seat and a white female in the rear passenger seat on the driver's side with the door open and talking to CPL, of the Maryland Natural Resources Police.

 I overheard the unidentified white female yell at CPL and I turned to see if she has any significant information for this incident. The unidentified female made the following statements to Cpl and I: she was on the boat during the accident, but would not identify which boat or who she was with, she stated she wants to leave and go be with her injured friends and not sit here and talk wit


BARDID: MD-2023-0059
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:30:00
State: MD
NameOfBodyOfWater: Site F-19 Bohemia Bay Yacht Ha
NearestCityTown: Chesapeake City
County: Cecil
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: Y
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Congested waters
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
RedactedNarrative:
On 07/14/2023 at approximately 1130 hrs. operator was operating his 55' Montecristo vessel. He was attempting to pull into his slip located at Bohemia Bay Yacht Harbor in Chesapeake City, MD 21915.  Subject struck the Starboard side piling at entrance to his slip. 

When he struck the piling, the anchor was pushed into the bow of the vessel damaging the fiberglass. Subject stated that the vessel across the fairway is sticking out from the slip making it difficult to pull into his slip. The vessel located in slip is sticking out approximately 6'. The fairway is approximately 70' wide.

On 7/20/23, I Cpl received an estimate from Subject. It was determined that it is a reportable boat accident. Additional information was then requested from Subject. It took approximately 10 days to gather all the information. A Boat Accident Report was completed and attached to this report.  All events occurred in Cecil County, MD.


BARDID: MD-2023-0060
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
State: MD
NameOfBodyOfWater: Deep Creek Lake
NearestCityTown: Swanton
County: Garrett
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: Y
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentCause3: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
RedactedNarrative:
On 7/29/2023 at approximately 03:00 PM, I, Corporal with the Maryland Natural Resource Police received a call from Maryland Natural Resource Police dispatch for a boat accident on Deep Creek Lake. Dispatch advised that a boat had been returned to Lake Life Boat Rentals with substantial damage. I arrived on the scene at approximately 03:20 PM. There I met with Lake Life staff to investigate the damages to vessel. There was damage to the port side pontoon, port side rub rail, lower unit, and propeller(attached). The operator of the vessel was identified by his state-issued driver's license. 

Subject stated that he was operating the vessel in the area of Deep Creek Lake State Park. He thought he was far enough away from shore and turned the vessel off. With the high winds, the vessel drifted towards the swim area of the park. Subject was unable to get the vessel started. The vessel drifted into the rocks on the shore of the state park. Subject said that someone in the park assisted him in getting the vessel started. Members of his party confirmed the incident and attempted to fend the vessel off the shore to no success. Subject also stated he called Lake Life Rentals for assistance. Staff arrived after the vessel had been removed from the shore and was back underway. The vessel then returned to Lake Life Boat Rentals.

My investigation showed the vessel's engine and throttle were in proper working order. The contributing factors to the vessel's accident were heavy wind in excess of 15 miles per hour and operator inexperience/ inattentiveness. No injuries were reported. No charges were filed. I received an estimate on damages from Deep Creek Marina (attached). The total cost of repairs is $15,326.46. All events occurred in Garrett County, Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2023-0061
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2023-07-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:18:00
State: MD
NameOfBodyOfWater: Choptank River-Main Stem-N Rt
NearestCityTown: Cambridge
County: Dorchester
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: Y
HazardousWaters: Y
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Storm
Visibility: Poor
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
AccidentCause2: Weather
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
On Saturday, July 29th, 2023, at approximately 6:15 pm, Dorchester County Fire Dispatched a possible boat fire at Franklin St Boat Ramp. I, Officer First Class with the Maryland Natural Resources Police, arrived shortly after the original call and observed a dark-colored sailboat aground and pushed against the western side of the bulkhead of the boat ramp. All occupants of the sailboat were on shore upon my arrival. The fire department observed smoke emanating from the cabin area of the sailboat and used their equipment to prevent it from turning into a fire. I spoke with the passengers of the sailboat and confirmed that they were ok and did not need medical attention. 

As I obtained the required information to complete the Accident Report, Subject described the events of the accident as the following. He advised me that they turned around and headed towards the dock after checking the weather. They were headed to Cambridge Creek. They made it past the Cambridge Yacht Basin near the mouth of the creek when the weather overpowered the maneuverability of the vessel. 

The vessel was pushed by the wind towards the shoreline East of Cambridge Creek and West of the boat ramp. The vessel ran aground approximately 50 yards west of the bulkhead of the ramp. The wind continued to push the vessel towards the bulkhead until it collided with the bulkhead. 

The vessel was leaning on its port (left side) with the Keel of the vessel broken off. The main sail was down with the front sail (Jib) still up. The damage to the bulkhead appeared to be only superficial. There was water inside the hull of the vessel from holes created by the collision with the shore.

Subject stated there were approximately 10 gallons of diesel left out of an 18-gallon tank. There was no visible sheen at the time of the accident. 

Pictures of the vessel have been added to the report. 

All events occurred in Dorchester County, Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2023-0062
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:41:00
State: MD
NameOfBodyOfWater: Deer Creek, Palmer State Park
NearestCityTown: Street
County: Harford
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: Y
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Sudden medical condition
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
RedactedNarrative:
On July 12, 2023 at approximately 1930 hours I, Cpl. of the Maryland Natural Resources Police Criminal Investigations Section, received a call from Lt. instructing me to respond to the area of Palmer State Park in Harford County, MD for a report of a fatal boating incident.  

I contacted Ofc. to make her aware of the call and instructed her to start her response to the same area.  I further instructed Ofc. 1 to make contact with Sgt. who was on scene assisting with gathering photographs, waiting for the Forensic Investigator from the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner, and removal of the victim from the area of recovery.    

Initial reports of the incidents stated that two individuals were kayaking on Deer Creek and became separated.  One of the individuals noticed his friend's empty kayak, and when he found his friend he was unconscious in the water. 

While I was en route the victim's vehicle was located at Benjamin Bridge Canoe and Kayak Launch.  I proceeded to run the MD Registration in TLO and was able to identify the owner of the vehicle. This matched the name of the victim given to field officers.

  Due to our extended ETA it was decided that Ofc. 1 would interview Subject1 over the phone while responding to the scene of the incident.  I changed course and responded directly to the Victim’ residence in order to interview the family and answer any questions post notification, which was made in person by Sgt. at approximately 2155 hours.   I arrived to the Victim’ residence at approximately 2234 hours and was invited to enter the residence and speak with the family along with Sgt..  

I started by giving a brief overview of what happened that evening as relayed to me by Ofc. 1.  According to what was told to her by Subject1, Victim had invited Subject1 to go kayaking with him that day.  While they were on the boats Subject1 stated that Victim had fallen off his kayak multiple times and had mentioned that he was experiencing ringing in his ears and that his equilibrium felt “off.”  

The two gentlemen had been smoking marijuana but according to Subject1 no alcohol or other drugs were consumed.  He did state that Victim had not drank much water that day though.  At some point in the kayak trip Victim encouraged Subject1 to go ahead and scout what was coming upstream.  

While doing this Subject1 noticed Victim’s empty kayak, located Victim in the water, attempted lifesaving efforts to the best of his abilities, and called 911.   After explaining this to the Victim their first question was if Victim was wearing his life jacket.  I stated that he was not and asked if this was unusual for him.  

Both stated multiple times that they stressed that Victim should wear his life jacket when on the kayaks and that as far as they knew he almost always wore them.  Victim’s mom was able to show me a recent picture he sent her of him wearing the life jacket while on the kayak but did explain that was from a previous trip.   

According to family he had only recently purchased the kayaks and possessed no boating experience outside of his limited time on the kayaks.  They did mention that he was not unfamiliar with the outdoors and often spent time outside hiking, hunting, and camping.  They were planning on going camping as family at the end of the month when the kayaks would be used by everyone.  

When asked about Victim’s swimming ability the family stated that he had taken lessons earlier in his life, but they didn't believe he would be a strong swimmer.  They believed his highest level of skill would be a doggy-paddle at most.    I brought up the fact that it had been a very hot day and that Victim had not drank much water according to Subject1.  

I asked if Victim had any health issues that the family knew about or if he had recently had a major health event.  His parents answered that he had high blood pressure, and they believed he was supposed to be on a medication for this but had no idea of which medication, dosage, or if he was taking it.  When asked about any issues with his equilibrium or balance they stated that was not an ongoing problem for Victim 


According to his family Victim had stopped consuming alcohol other than the occasional social drink at a family gathering.   I then explained to the family that Victim was being transported to the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner in Baltimore, MD and that he would receive a full autopsy once there.  I provided them with the NRP case number as well as the OCME case number for their information and explained that they would need to give that information to the funeral home of their choice who would work with the OCME to retrieve Victim.  

At that time Victim’s mom made me aware that they had lost a son somewhat recently and were familiar with this process. At approximately 0007 hours NRP Field Units arrived at the residence to return the kayaks and Victim dry bag filled with his personal belongings, excluding his handgun that was recovered from him on scene, to his family.  

Ofc. 1 arrived to the residence at approximately the same time and a seizure slip was signed returning the property over to the family.  At that time we once again entered the residence to speak with the family and return the property.  

Ofc. 1 answered any additional questions she could at that time and explained to the family that Victim handgun would be checked into evidence and held until further notice.  We explained that the family's best course of action at that time would be to reach out to the Maryland State Police Gun Center in order to get information on what they would need to do to have the handgun returned to them.  

While speaking with the family they made us aware that Victim did not live at their residence full time but did use the address as his permanent mailing address.  They believed he lived in an apartment in the same County but had no further information on where it may be.  The family explained as far as they knew the apartment belonged to a new girlfriend of Victim.  

They did not know the name of the girlfriend, how long they had been dating (other than an estimate of it being a recent relationship), or where the apartment would be.  They did confirm that Victim would come and go from the residence frequently though. Once we answered their questions to the best of our ability all units cleared from the residence and responded to the Maryland State Police Bel Air Barrack.  

While at the barrack Ofc. 1 checked Victim hand gun, ammo, magazine, and holster into temporary evidence.  An email was sent to Sgt. making him aware of this for the purposes of transporting all evidence to the permanent evidence locker in the NRP Gwynnbrook office.  Once this was completed all units cleared from the barrack.On July 13, 2023 Ofc. 1 contacted me and made me aware that according to the Medical Examiner's initial findings Victim suspected cause of death was a major cardiac event.

It was decided that once we had the official results we would meet with the family again to let them know and to gather any necessary follow-up information. This case remains open and under investigation pending the autopsy results from the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner. Dr. later contacted me to discuss his opinion in classifying the manner of death as “Accident.” In conversation, he explained cardiovascular disease(s) revealed in postmortem examination presented forensic evidence identifying the decedent to have experienced a major cardi


BARDID: MD-2023-0063
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2023-07-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:14:00
State: MD
NameOfBodyOfWater: Ches Bay & Tribs-Bay Brg-Cove
NearestCityTown: Stevensville
County: Queen Annes
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: Y
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Storm
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
AccidentCause2: Weather
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On July 30, 2023, at approximately 1815 hours, I, Officer First Class of the Maryland Natural Resources Police was dispatched to a water rescue in the area of the Chesapeake Bay and Chesapeake Estates Dr. Stevensville, Maryland. Anne Arundel and Kent Island Fire Department were dispatched as well. I boarded a marked Natural Resources Police vessel and arrived on the scene where I observed an overturned vessel with floating debris scattered around the area. Two Anne Arundel Fire vessels were working on retrieving the victims from the water. After they retrieved 8 victims from the water, I verified with the fire vessel that all occupants from the overturned vessel were accounted for and that there were no injuries. The two Anne Arundel Fire Vessels returned to Matapeake with the victims. I plotted the overturned vessel by GPS at 38 56.092N, 076 22.080W and returned by vessel to Matapeake to meet with the victims.
    The owner and operator of the vessel was identified by his Driver's License. Subject stated they were heading north at approximately 10-20 knots on the Chesapeake Bay after the storm. They took a large wave over the bow and the vessel took on 2 feet of water. Subject stated that he made everyone put on a personal flotation device before the vessel capsized.
    One of the occupants was inside the ambulance being seen for jellyfish stings and was released shortly after. No other injuries were observed, and I acquired all the victim's information. One of the victims named refused to provide me her full name and date of birth due to a future custody court case. 
    The overturned vessel was towed back to Matapeake by myself and Officer First Class of the same agency. I notified Subject of the location of his vessel as well as the location of the miscellaneous vessel items that were floating near the area.

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


BARDID: MD-2023-0064
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:33:00
State: MD
NameOfBodyOfWater: 869 Yacht Club Dr, Berlin
NearestCityTown: Ocean Pines
County: Worcester
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentEvent2: Collision with fixed object
RedactedNarrative:
I, Officer, of Maryland’s Natural Resources Police assigned to Area 1 in Worcester County Maryland, was underway on vessel NRP 154 with Cadet, on July 18, 2023 when we were dispatched to a vessel accident in the Isle of Wight Bay at Pines Point Marina (869 Yacht Club Drive, Ocean Pines, MD, 21811). The accident involved a center console vessel that was attempting to dock when it struck a pier and two pontoon boats that were docked nearby.

When we arrived at the marina, we were met by three people. Operator1 went on to explain that while attempting to dock his 27’ Grady White Canyon in slip, he “must have slipped and hit the throttle.” This jolted the vessel forward knocking both Operator1 and occupant to the floor. 

Operator1 said that after making an impact with something he was able to pull the kill switch lanyard of the vessel. When they came to a stop, he put the kill switch back in the proper position, started his engines, and backed his vessel back into his slip. He noted that he damaged the “B” pier of Pines Point Marina as well as two vessels diagonal from his slip. 

Operator1 contacted subject1 who contacted the owners of the damaged vessels. Operator1 has vessel insurance through Nationwide Insurance Company and started the process to make a claim while I was present.

The owner of the first vessel struck was not present for the accident as his vessel was docked and secured to the pier in slip.

The second vessel owner on the scene around the same time that Cadet and I did. She was not present at the time of the accident. No one was aboard her vessel as it was docked and secured to the pier in slip.

Photographs of the damaged vessels were taken and Operator1 received a Natural Resources Citation for violating the US Coastguard’s Rules of the Road (Rule 8) by failing to take action to avoid a collision. All parties involved in this incident will be sending me estimates for all damages sustained during the accident. A request for security footage from the marina has been submitted.

All events took place in Worcester County Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2023-0065
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2023-07-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:43:00
State: MD
NameOfBodyOfWater: 22 Ocean City, MD
NearestCityTown: Ocean City
County: Worcester
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On July 18, 2023 at 4:25 P.M. I (Corporal of the Maryland Natural Resources Police) was dispatched to Top Gun Watersports located on 22nd street in Ocean City, Maryland in reference to a boat accident involving 2 vessels and two occupants. I arrived on scene and met with the manager, who advised me that two of his PWC's were involved in a collision. He showed me the driver information for each PWC and explained that damage to one PWC was in excess of $5,000.00. Both drivers were still on scene.

     I first spoke to operator2 who advised he was sitting still or perhaps just clutch ahead and watching his brother operate another PWC. He advised Operator1 was doing fast circles (donuts) for a moment and then when he came out, he ran over the stern of Operator2' PWC. Operator2 advised he had no time to get out of his way in order to avoid the collision. I then spoke to Operator1 about the incident. He advised the same story. He said he was doing donuts but when he came out of the last turn he could not avoid his brother who was watching from about 40 feet away. 

     I examined the vessels and took pictures that are included in this report. The damages reflect the incident that was described by both drivers. I found fault to be on Operator1 and issued him one citation for operating a PWC at a speed greater than 6 knots while within 100 feet of another vessel. All events occurred in Worcester County, Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2023-0066
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:09:00
State: MD
NameOfBodyOfWater: Montego Bay
NearestCityTown: Ocean City
County: Worcester
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Improper loading
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On July 26, 2023 I, OFC. of the Maryland Natural Resources Police received a call for an injury on a rental pontoon boat. It was reported that while engaged in tubing activities in the area of Montego Bay, victim fell and sustained injuries to her upper back and head. 

She advised that she stood up to take a photo while the pontoon was under way, at which time she slipped and fell. She was transported to Beebe medical center in Lewes, Delaware and released shortly after. The pontoon was a rental from Sharks Cove Marina located in Selbyville, Delaware. The pontoon is Delaware registered, and it is a Godfrey sweet water with a 90 horsepower Yamaha. 

No further investigation is needed


BARDID: MD-2023-0067
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2023-07-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:17:00
State: MD
NameOfBodyOfWater: South River-Duvall Creek
NearestCityTown: Annapolis
County: Anne Arundel
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Weather
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
RedactedNarrative:
On 07/27/2023 at approximately 11:23 AM, I, Ofc. of the Maryland Natural Resources Police, received a report from the United States Coast Guard regarding a vessel that was aground at Thomas Point Park. I arrived in the area at 11:40 AM and observed a White Chaparral bowrider boat with Maryland registration aground on the shoreline jetty of the park (approximate GPS coordinates of N 38.54'26.2," W 076.27'39.3"). The vessel was a leased boat from South River Boat Rentals located at  2802 Solomons Island Rd, Edgewater, MD 21037.  There were five occupants on the vessel and the water depth was approximately 1.5 feet.

Shortly after my arrival, the manager of South River Boat Rentals arrived on a vessel with Maryland registration. He arranged for Tow Boat U.S. to pump the vessel free of water and tow it back to South River Boat Rentals. At approximately 11:46 PM, All persons on the vessel donned Type I PFDs and Anne Arundel Fire personnel assisted in unloading the occupants from the vessel onto shore. I was not able to get closer than 30 yards from the vessel due to water depth constraints and there was no ability to access land with my vessel, so I requested Coast Guard to respond by land at approximately 11:48 PM. At approximately 12:22 PM, A Coast Guard officer that was on shore advised that the vessel was taking on a significant amount of water. 

At approximately 12:23 PM, Anne Arundel Fire personnel cleared the scene and advised that all passengers reported no injuries. Ofc. of MDNRP, arrived by land and identified all passengers. Ofc. obtained a witness statement from the operator (attached to this report) The operator reported that he had anchored the vessel off Thomas Point Park at approximately 11:00 AM. 

They began fishing for a brief time and then Subject decided to pull anchor and change locations. They struggled to get the anchor free and when it was retrieved, the vessel had drifted to within a few feet from the shoreline.  The engine was on and in neutral. Subject attempted to drive the stern away from the shoreline but the waves "were too strong and pushed the boat onto the rocks."  Subject reported to Ofc. that he had about 100 hours of operator experience and had a boater safety certificate.

I consulted the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's interactive buoy system and the Annapolis buoy showed weather conditions at the time as an air temperature of 85.5 degrees Fahrenheit, a water temperature of 82 degrees Fahrenheit, sustained winds from the South-Southwest of 10 knots, gusts of 12.6 knots, and a wave height of 0.97 feet. Visibility was clear and sunny. High tide for Thomas Point shoal was at 11:56 AM. 

At 1:03 PM, Tow Boat U.S. arrived and towed the vessel back to South River Boat Rentals. At 2:38 PM, I arrived at South River Boat Rentals by land. He showed me where the vessel had been hauled out in the marina and I took pictures and obtained the lease agreement (included in this report). There was one significant fracture in the middle of the hull measuring approximately 2 inches by 3 inches.  I also observed several cracks on the port forward side of the hull measuring approximately 1/2 to 3/4 inches.
The insurance provider for the vessel is Markel American Insurance in the name of South River Boat Rentals LLC. The the vessel was declared a total loss with a value of $13,500 (documents included in this report). 

All events occurred in Anne Arundel County. 

This case is closed.


BARDID: MD-2023-0068
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:15:00
State: MD
NameOfBodyOfWater: Eastern Bay-Tilghman Point to
NearestCityTown: Claiborne
County: Talbot
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: Y
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Storm
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
AccidentCause2: Weather
AccidentCause3: Hull failure
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
On July 29, 2023, at approximately 7:19 P.M., I, Ofc. along with Cpl., both of the Maryland Natural Resources Police, received a call for service from Sgt. of the Maryland Natural Resources Police. Sgt. observed a vessel that was against the rocks on the west side of Tilghman Point. Sgt. observed the vessel with 4 occupants, all wearing personal floatation devices (PFDs.) The vessel would be later identified as a 2005 Polar 23’ Pleasure vessel displaying Maryland registration. The passengers and operator would be later identified by their driver’s licenses and are attached to this report. Cpl. 

    At approximately 7:30 P.M., Cpl. and I arrived at the scene where I set up a tow-line, so we could pull the vessel off the rocks. At approximately 7:40 P.M., I requested all individuals back on the boat and to remove the anchors in preparation to pulling them off the rocks. Cpl. pulled the vessel off the rocks to a distance far enough away that I could properly set the vessel up for stern tow. Cpl. maneuvered the patrol vessel to allow me to board the disabled vessel. After securing the line to the bow of the boat, I boarded the patrol vessel again. Cpl towed the vessel to the east side of Tilghman Point where the sea conditions were more favorable and into less than 2ft of water. While towing the vessel, I communicated with the occupants via cellphone and requested them to contact Tow Boat US to arrange for a tow.  

    At approximately 7:55 P.M., both vessels arrived to the east side of Tilghman Point, where three occupants of the vessel board the patrol vessel. While waiting for Tow Boat US to arrive, myself and occupants of the vessel continuously pumped/bailed water out of the vessel. Tow Boat US arrived at the scene at 8:28 P.M., where they utilized an electric pump to remove the water from the vessel.

    All occupants and vessel was transferred to Tow Boat US where they departed the area enroute to Cove Creek on Kent Island where the Wright’s vehicle and trailer was located. The vessel and all occupants arrived at the boat ramp on Kent Island at approximately 10:15 P.M.

    All events occurred in Talbot County, Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2023-0069
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-31 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:21:00
State: MD
NameOfBodyOfWater: Deep Creek Lake
NearestCityTown: Swanton
County: Garrett
WaterConditions: Choppy
HazardousWaters: Y
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
AccidentCause3: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On 7/31/2023 at approximately 1603 hours, I, Ofc. with Maryland Natural Resources Police, received a call from Sgt., also with Maryland Natural Resources Police, informing me of a boating accident that occurred on Deep Creek Lake. The victim was taken to Garrett Regional Medical Center (Hospital) in Oakland, Maryland.

    When I arrived at the Hospital, the nurses informed me that the patient had already been released. The patient was 17-year-old. The hospital staff provided me with a contact number for victim’s father.  I made contact with father via cell phone and met them at their dock, in the Blakeslee community at Deep Creek Lake, for an interview.

Operator was the single and sole operator of a 2006 Sea-Doo personal watercraft (PWC), bearing PA registration. Operator was traveling roughly 35 mph in the main body of Deep Creek Lake near Brenda's Pizza, when a rogue wake came from the left side, hit the PWC causing it to rock to the right then back to the left, throwing Operator into the water, injuring his left shoulder and ribs. 

No other family members were present at the time of the accident. The accident happened around 11:00 am. Due to his pain, his parents decided to take him to the hospital.

Operator had a valid temporary boating license. He was also wearing the kill switch and a type III personal flotation device (PFD) at the time of the incident. The hospital took X-rays, of his left shoulder and ribs. There were no signs of bruising, and he did not lose consciousness. 

Pictures are attached to this report. 

All events occurred in Garrett County, MD


BARDID: MD-2023-0070
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-08-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:20:00
State: MD
NameOfBodyOfWater: Isle of Wight Bay, Ocean City
NearestCityTown: Ocean City
County: Worcester
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause3: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Collision with commercial vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On August 3, 2023, at 1820 hours I, Officer responded to Action Water Sports located at 120 52nd Street for a reported property damage vessel accident.  Upon arrival, I was able to speak with the guide who stated the following.

    Guide stated that he was guiding a tour of PWC for Action Water Sports.  Guide stated that prior to the tour beginning he told the group that when they arrive to the riding area he was going to slow down and further explain the riding area boundaries.  Guide stated that as he arrived to the riding area he began to slow down, Guide stated that he observed a subject fail to slow down.  Operator1 stated that he attempted to move out of the way of guide but was unsuccessful, and Operator1 collided with Guide.  Operator1 stated that he was not injured and checked on guide who also stated he was not injured.  Guide then had Operator1 follow him back, to the dock.

    I then spoke with Operator1 who stated the following.  Operator1 stated that he was participating in a guided tour with Action Water sports.  Operator1 stated that as they approached the riding area he observed Guide slow down.  However, Operator1 stated he was unable to slow down in time, and collided with Guide.  Operator1 further stated that he was not injured.

    Operator1 was operating a 2022 SEA DOO GTX Maryland registration, this PWC received damage to the port side fiberglass that was estimated to cost $500.00 to repair.  Operator2 was operating a 2022 SEA DOO GTX Maryland registration, this PWC received fiberglass damage to its port side, estimated to cost over $2000.00 to repair.  Both PWC's are owned by Odyssea Water Sports and the owner estimated the damage on both PWCS.  There were no injuries in this incident.  Photos of both PWCs were taken and uploaded under this incident.  

    Operator1 was issued two warnings in this incident for navigational rules violations, and operating a PWC above 6 knots within 100 feet of another vessel.

    All above events occurred in Worcester County, Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2023-0071
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2023-07-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 01:49:00
State: MD
NameOfBodyOfWater: 80 South Shore Rd, Elkton
NearestCityTown: Emily Point
County: Cecil
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On July 16, 2023, at approximately 0800 hours, I Officer First Class was requested to obtain written statements from the occupants of the vessel involved in the boat accident that had occurred on July 16, 2023 at approximately 0130 hours.  I responded to Christiana Care Hospital in Elkton MD and was informed that one person had been released from the hospital and the other had been transferred to Christiana Care Hospital in Newark, DE.  

I also spoke to the owner of the vessel, Owner (father of Victim1) and he informed me the vessel was still on the beach at 101 Lance Court.  He was waiting for high tide later that morning so he could place the vessel on a trailer.  He also told me his son, Victim1 had gone to a residence to get some sleep. 

I traveled to Christiana Care Hospital in Newark, DE.  When I arrived, I was able to locate Victim2, however, he was undergoing surgery to his face.  I asked him if he was able to talk and ask him a couple of questions and he said he would try.  Victim2 told me in his own words that they had been fishing until approximately 0000 hours and then headed to the Chesapeake Inn.  

They departed a little after 0100 hours and Victim2 operated the vessel out of the slip.  He told me he turned the helm over to Victim1 as they were leaving the Chesapeake City Basin.  He couldn’t remember if he was standing or sitting and then the next thing he remembered was waking up covered in blood.  He made a comment that “why aren’t the markers lighted”.  

I asked if anyone had been consuming alcohol and he said they had had a couple of drinks, maybe two or three.  He stated that Victim1 had been drinking a Seltzer style drink and had maybe had one or two Seltzers.  I confirmed that Victim2 had been a passenger and he stated he was a passenger.  At this time, I felt it was important to talk to Victim1, so I left a Witness/Victim statement with Victim2’s mother and asked them to complete the form once Victim2 was able to and I would return to pick up the written statement.

I then traveled and made contact with Owner. He was getting ready to tow the vessel to a community boat ramp approximately 200 yards upriver from the current location.  I captured a few photographs of the vessel floating and then he proceeded to have a friend tow the boat to the boat ramp.  At the boat ramp I assisted with placing the vessel of the trailer and then climbed aboard the vessel to take photographs.  

Owner asked if I could pass him the tackle box, which as actually an Igloo cooler.  I opened the lid to the cooler and observed it was full of empty alcoholic beverages with a half full bag of ice under the empty beverages.  The ice was still frozen.  I laid out the empty alcoholic beverage cans and took a photograph.  I proceeded to take photographs of the vessel.  

I noticed a pool of blood next to and slightly under the outboard engine cowling cover, which was laying on the deck behind the starboard helm location.  The cowling cover must have come off with the impact of the crash, since it was not secured to the outboard engine in the photograph taken the night of the accident.  

The helm seat was also broken and laying on the deck.  I observed the windshield, access cover and door to the forward cuddy cabin area of the vessel were all broken from the impact.  The cuddy cabin area had several life vests and a Type IV throw cushion scattered around.  There was a yellow bucket on the floor of the cuddy cabin that contained several items, including an empty alcoholic beverage and the vessel certificate of documentation.  

There was a stereo control console located on storage shelf on the upper port side of the cuddy cabin.  It was still on and looked like it had been previously located in a cut-out section of the bulkhead wall between the deck and cuddy cabin of the vessel.  The force of the impact had forced it forward and out of the cut-out.  However, someone had moved it to the shelf where I observed it.  I also noticed from comparing photographs that I took to a photograph taken the night of the accident that there was a fishing pole in a rod holder on the port side however I did not see any fishing rod when I took photographs.  

Therefore, someone had removed items from the vessel and moved items around within the vessel.
After the vessel was safe to transport, Owner drove the trailer to this residence. 

I traveled to interview Victim1.  I made contact with Victim1 at 1300 hours.  He completed the Witness/Victim Statement whilst I waited and after reading his statement, I noticed that Victim1 stated he was a passenger.  Therefore, both Victim2 and Victim1 stated they were passengers, neither stated they were operating the vessel.  Victim1 stated Victim2 took the helm when they departed from the Chesapeake Inn and continued to operate the vessel.  Victim1 stated he was looking down and texting or adjusting the stereo until he felt an impact.  I asked why Victim2 had been operated and Victim1 said that he (Victim1) had been drinking and Victim2 was a cop.  Victim1 did state they were cruised at a slow speed from when they left the Chesapeake Inn until they passed the Dann's Towing Marine, located approximately 1/2 mile west of the Chesapeake City bridge, and sped up to a planing speed.

At approximately 1430hrs, Officer First Class and I, went to Christiana Care Hospital in Newark, DE to pick up Victim2’s written statement.  After reading Victim2's statement I noticed discrepancies between Victim1' and Victim2's statements.  Victim2 was advised of his Miranda rights and refused to answer any addition questions without and attorney present.

All events occurred in Cecil County, MD and New Castle County, Delaware.


BARDID: MD-2023-0072
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-08-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:33:00
State: MD
NameOfBodyOfWater: Goose Harbor
NearestCityTown: Essex
County: Baltimore
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: People on gunwale, bow, or transom
AccidentCause2: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On 8-5-23 Officers were dispatched to an injured subject located on the pier at Goose Harbor Marina.

Upon arrival I spoke to the operator of vessel 1 along with a witness. Both parties stated the upon returning to the dock, Vessel 1 was backing into a slip at location. 

Subject1 was on the bow of boat grabbing line while Victim was on the back of vessel grabbing lines to dock.  It was described by both parties that the victim got down onto the swim platform of the boat near the waterline and had her body hanging over the starboard side of the boat while attempting to grab a line.  

As the boat continued to back up, the victim did not notice the finger pier that was sticking directly out behind her.  This caused the victim's body to get stuck between the piling and the boat causing injury.  After speaking with medics on scene, they advised that it was possible that the victim suffered cracked ribs.  The victim was transferred by medics to Bayview Hospital.

On 8-6-23, Officer spoke to the victim's mother.  She advised the Victim suffered significant injuries causing her to bleed internally and having to undergo emergency surgery.  She advised that she was admitted to ICU unit and would have to stay there for the next five days.

This officer will continue to follow up on this case.


BARDID: MD-2023-0073
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:33:00
State: MD
NameOfBodyOfWater: Ocean City Inlet Proper
NearestCityTown: Ocean City
County: Worcester
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: Y
HazardousWaters: Y
CongestedWaters: Y
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
AccidentCause2: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
RedactedNarrative:
On Friday, July 28th at approximately 1439 hours I, Officer of the Maryland Natural Resources Police was underway on boat patrol in the area of the Ocean City Inlet along with Officer when I spotted what appeared to be a vessel bumping against the rocks on the North Side of the inlet. We made our way over to the vessel in distress with two persons on board. The vessel had a white top and blue bottom bearing NJ registration. There were several good samaritans standing on top of the rock wall of the north side of the parking lot inlet attempting to assist the disabled vessel by holding lines that were connected to the bow and stern of the vessel. 

I maneuvered our patrol vessel alongside the disabled vessel and announced myself to Subject and informed him that I was a Maryland Natural Resources Police Officer. Subject stated that his vessel had lost propulsion. At that moment I advised Officer that my intentions were to take the disabled vessel into stern tow and tow it into West Ocean City Commercial Harbor. 

I asked Officer if he felt comfortable handling the tow line in a rapidly changing environment inside the inlet as a result of the high winds, vessel traffic, tide and current. Office agreed to the plan. As I maneuvered closer to the disabled vessel to pass a tow line Officer communicated with the Department of Natural Resources Police Communications Center that we had a disabled vessel in the Ocean City Inlet. I advised the good Samaritans on land to throw the lines into the boat. 

I then notified subject of our intent to tow him to safety. Subject informed me that he had a tow line onboard and then threw it over to our patrol vessel. Officer grabbed the tow line with the boat hook and proceeded to put a working turn on our rear tow post on our vessel. Officer paid out slack while I turned our patrol vessel away from the rocks and put it in clutch ahead slowly gathering more speed. I instructed Officer to go ahead and make the bit. Officer made three figure eights on the tow post and stood tow watch making sure the tow line was holding from the towed vessels front cleat. 

I towed the vessel back to the West Ocean City Commercial Harbor Boat Ramp. We safely moored the vessel up to the pier. At the moment the United States Coast Guard Station Ocean City response boat arrived on scene. Once safely back on land I interviewed Subject and asked if he was ok. Officer and I then proceeded to conduct a recreational vessel safety inspection which resulted in no violations.

I asked him if he thought he knew how much damage his vessel had sustained, and he replied that he would have a better idea once the vessel was trailered. We exchanged information in case the damage met the threshold and met the requirements of a reportable boat accident investigation. Subject emailed me photos of the damage and I came to the conclusion that this event was a reportable boat accident. The pictures show extensive damage along the hall with several cracks going all the way through the fiberglass. In addition to damage to the fiberglass on the hull, there is damage to the lower unit and propeller. The damage is estimated to be around $3000 by the owner 

ALL EVENTS OCCURRED IN WORCESTER COUNTY MARYLAND.


BARDID: MD-2023-0074
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-08-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:40:00
State: MD
NameOfBodyOfWater: Ches Bay & Tribs-Bay Brg-Cove
NearestCityTown: Annapolis
County: Anne Arundel
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: Y
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
AccidentCause2: Weather
AccidentCause3: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
On August 6, 2023, at 12:40 pm, I, Officer First Class of the Maryland Natural Resources Police, received a call for service in reference to a vessel taking on water in the area of the Chesapeake Bay near Thomas Point Lighthouse, located northeast of the South River, Anne Arundel County, Maryland.

     After arriving on scene, I observed a vessel taking on water secured to the Thomas Point Lighthouse, later identified as a 21’7” Cobia displaying current Maryland vessel registration. After getting up to the lighthouse I was able to speak briefly with the operator of the vessel. OPERATOR1 advised that he rented the vessel from Carefree Boat Rentals, located at 2820 Solomon's Island Rd., Edgewater, Anne Arundel County, Maryland. OPERATOR1 further stated that all the passengers were on the dock of the Lighthouse and not injured. Due to the weather conditions and rough seas, I advised OPERATOR1 and his passengers to stay on the dock until a vessel could remove them and transport them back to shore. 

     At approximately 1:40 pm Carefree Boat Rentals arrived. After observing the vessel he advised that TowBoatUS was going to tow the vessel back to the Carefree Boat Club located at the, Oak Grove Marina. After TowBoatUS removed the vessel, subject picked up all the passengers and gear from the lighthouse dock and transported them back to the marina.

     Once back at the marina, I interviewed OPERATOR1 about the incident. OPERATOR1 advised that he had left from Carefree Boat Rentals about 10:30 am and headed to the Thomas Point Lighthouse where they started fishing. While fishing in the area of the lighthouse, they observed water coming in the starboard stern of the vessel. OPERATOR1 stated that he was not anchored (only drifting), OPERATOR1 indicated the bilge pump was in the “ON” position, and he attempted to manually control the switch, but it was not keeping up with the water flowing into the boat. It was at that time, he operated the boat to the lighthouse, secured it and got all the passengers and personal gear off the vessel, and contacted Carefree Boat Rental about the issue. OPERATOR1 advised that he did not hit anything in the water or while he was operating.

     On August 10, 2023, Carefree Boat Club advised that the estimated damage to the vessel is $6,800.

All events occurred in Anne Arundel County, Maryland.
This case is closed.


BARDID: MD-2023-0075
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-08-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:37:00
State: MD
NameOfBodyOfWater: Deep Creek Lake
NearestCityTown: Swanton
County: Garrett
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: Y
CongestedWaters: Y
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: People on gunwale, bow, or transom
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
RedactedNarrative:
On 08/08/2023, at approximately 3:39 pm, I, Ofc., with Maryland Natural Resources Police, received a call from DNR communications for an injured subject that was at Garrett Regional Medical Center (Hospital) involved in a boating accident. 

I arrived at the hospital at approximately 4:10 pm. 

Victim and his family had rented a pontoon boat, Maryland registration, from The Aquatic Center on Deep Creek Lake. They were attempting to dock the vessel at their rental dock, at the pinnacle docks near Glendale Bridge. 

Victim was standing on the left side of the bow of the boat as it was entering the dock. Victim stepped off of the vessel with one foot onto the dock, when a rogue wake came and pushed the vessel and dock up, causing him to slip. 

Victim was holding onto the top rail of the vessel with both of his hands. He fell into the water, and hit his right side/ribs on the gunnel of the vessel. 

The other passengers immediately grabbed him and pulled him up out of the water. Five other passengers/family members  were on the vessel at the time of the incident. The driver of the vessel was Victim's son. None of the passengers were wearing life jackets at the time of the incident. The boat's motor was off and trimmed all the way up. The boat was drifting into the dock when the incident occurred. Victim was taken to the hospital by his wife. The water conditions were very rough, and the wind was blowing approximately 15 mph, from the west. 

On 08/09/2023, I met with Victim and the other passengers at their rental house, where I was able to properly identify and interview them. Victim had sustained three broken ribs on this right side. Victim's son walked with me down to their dock slip, where I was able to gather the vessel information. 

Pictures were taken of their ID's, the dock, and the vessel. 

All are attached to this report.

All events occurred in Garrett County, Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2023-0076
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-08-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:45:00
State: MD
NameOfBodyOfWater: Deep Creek Lake
NearestCityTown: Swanton
County: Garrett
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: Y
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
RedactedNarrative:
On Sunday, August 20, 2023, at approximately 1705 hours this officer, Sgt., was in full utility uniform and on patrol of Deep Creek Lake in Garrett County, Maryland aboard marked NRP patrol vessel 806.  I was dispatched to the South Main Body of the Lake off Shoreline Drive by Garrett Central for a report of a water rescue in progress.  I responded to the location and arrived at approximately 1707 hours.  I was flagged down by the occupants of two vessels - one a white "wakesetter" style vessel and the other a blue Godfrey pontoon boat that bore Maryland registration.  

The operator of the pontoon vessel explained that her ex-husband had fallen off a tube that was being pulled behind the vessel and slipped below the surface of the water.  I requested additional resources and divers from allied emergency services providers, other on duty NRP officers, and the NRP Underwater Operations Team.  I also directed the occupants of the white "wakesetter" vessel to begin a surface search of the immediate area. 

Through questioning of Subject1, I learned the pontoon boat was a rental boat from Funtime Watersports, LLC.  It was a 2023 Godfrey pontoon boat that they had rented for one hour.  The pontoon was originally operated by Subject2 from Funtime Watersports' rental dock into the south main body of the Lake. Subject1’s daughter was then towed behind the vessel on a tube provided by Funtime Watersports.  Subject1 served as the observer for Tuber1. Subject1 then was towed on the rube with Tuber1 serving as her observer.  Next, Subject2 boarded the tube, Subject1 assumed the role of the vessel's operator and Tuber1 served as the observer.  Tuber1 recorded portions of Subject2's time on the tube including when he fell off the tube.  This video was voluntarily shared with me.

The video showed Subject2 on the tube, he was in an upright seated position with his feet forward towards the boat.  He was captured splashing his hands into the water instead of holding onto the tubes' handles.  As the vessel crossed a medium-sized wake, Subject2 rolled backwards with his feet going over his head and he fell off the tube.  Subject1 stated that Subject2 did not know how to swim.  Subject1 stated that Subject2 entered the water at approximately 1645 hours.

As additional units responded to the area and after marking its location on the lake with my vessel's anchor and Type IV personal flotation device (PFD), I towed the pontoon vessel to a nearby dock and secured it.  Further questioning revealed the Subject1 was originally operating the vessel in a northwest direction closer to the Thousand Acres / Shoreline Drive side of the lake.  Subject1 then turned the vessel around in a south-eastern direction.  As Subject1 straightened the vessel out and accelerated to a cruising speed, the vessel crossed the medium-sized wake which caused Subject2 to fall from the tube.  

After she and Tuber1 saw that Subject2 had fallen from the tube, Subject1 turned the boat back around and returned to within 15 to 30 feet of Subject2.  She turned off the engine of the vessel, jumped into the lake through the vessel's side door and swam to Subject2.  She struggled with assisting Subject2 as he was pushing Subject1 under the water.  

Subject2 then stated "I'm giving up", released Subject1, and slipped below the surface of the water.  Subject1 returned to her vessel and began to summon assistance from other vessels in the area.  Subject1 stated that approximately two minutes passed before one of the occupants of the "wakesetter" vessel called 911.  

Subject1 stated that she had consumed one wine cooler earlier in the day at approximately 1240 hours, as the family traveled from their home to the Deep Creek Lake area.  I did not detect any signs of impairment or intoxication from Subject1 and therefore, did not ask her to consent to alcohol testing.

I asked for and received consent to search the rental vessel.  I found fresh blood smears and splatters on the seats of the vessel - one on the port bow and the other on the cushion of the rear port couch.  Blood was also found on one support of the vessel's Bimini top.  This blood is believed to come from a small cut Subject1 sustained on her hand presumably while struggling with Subject2.  The vessel was found to contain 14 Type II personal flotation devices and one Type III PFD.  This type III PFD was supplied to the family by staff of Funtime Watersports, LLC.  The foam flotation of the PFD was folded in two in the back of the PFD and the majority of the safety information available on its label was unreadable.  Therefore, in my opinion this PFD should have been removed from service.  The vessel was found to be lacking a Type IV throw-able PFD - a federally required piece of boating safety equipment for all vessels over 16 feet in length.  The transmission of the vessel was found to be in reverse and the ignition key was off.  The tube and its tow-line were found to be in working order with no visible damage.  When asked, Subject1 stated that she had not completed the necessary processes to obtain a boating safety certificate or a 10-day exemption certificate.  

As additional NRP and fire department assets arrived at the location, surface searches continued and the sonar units on the NRP patrol vessels were used to search the waters in the area.  I then took the pontoon boat back to Funtime Watersports.  Upon arriving at the rental dock, I explained to the staff what had happened.  They provided me with Subject2's boating safety exemption certificate.  They were asked to inspect the vessel, and were unable to located its required Type IV PFD.  

The search for Subject2 continued to approximately 0100 hours on August 21, 2023.  It then resumed at approximately 0700 hours.  At approximately 1125 hours, Subject2's body was located on the bottom of Deep Creek Lake by members of the NRP Underwater Operations Team.  They utilized our advanced sonar equipment to find it.  Subject2's body was recovered at approximately 1129 hours, and he was pronounced dead by Cpl..  He was transported to the boat ramp at Deep Creek Lake State Park and examined by Forensic Investigator.  

After the results of Subject2's autopsy are obtained, Funtime Watersports, LLC will be issued two DNR citations for failing to equip their rental boat with a Type IV PFD and providing the family with a Type III PFD which should have been removed from service.  

NRP CIS Investigator Cpl. has been assigned this death investigation and will submit supplemental reports as necessary.  All events occurred in Garrett County, Maryland.  This case may be closed but additional supplemental reports will follow.


BARDID: MD-2023-0077
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2023-08-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:23:00
State: MD
NameOfBodyOfWater: 115 Newport Bay Dr, Ocean City
NearestCityTown: Ocean City
County: Worcester
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: Y
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On August 5th 2023 at 1930 hours I, Officer of the Maryland Natural Resources Police was underway on boat patrol in the Assawoman Bay of Ocean City when I received a report of a Jet ski accident in the area of Newport Bay Drive Ocean City. Upon arriving on scene, I witnessed two Personal Watercrafts (PWC) on a floating dock that were damaged. 

A blue PWC with damage to the front bearing Maryland registration and a red PWC with disabling damage along the starboard side bearing Maryland registration. 

I met with Operator2. I informed Operator2 that I was Officer of the Maryland Natural Resources Police and was here to investigate a boat accident that was called into the Department of Natural Resources Communications Center. I took photos of both PWC's and asked Operator2 what happened. 

Operator2 stated that his buddy, Operator1 who was operating the red PWC was just sent to the Tidal Health Hospital in Salisbury for possible injuries. Operator2 said that he was on the blue PWC and his buddy Operator1 was on the red PWC, and they were in the canal when Operator2 looked around, turned and accelerated hitting the red PWC that Operator1 was riding on in front of Operator2. I asked if Operator2 was ok and if he had any injuries. Operator2 stated that he was ok and was just hoping Operator1 was ok. 

Officer responded to Tidal Health to see how sever Operator1's injuries were as a result from the PWC accident. Operator1 had 6 broken ribs. 

Operator2 received two citations. One citation for Failure to Obey Navigations of the Road Rule 8 Action to Avoid Collision. One citation for operating a PWC over 6 knots within 100 feet of structure. 

Operator1 also received two citations. One citation for Failure to Obey Navigations of the Road Rule 8 Action to Avoid Collision. One citation for operating a PWC over 6 knots within 100 feet of structure. 

I spoke with the owner of both PWC's. I informed Owner that I was completing a boat accident report that his PWC's were involved in at Newport Bay Drive in Ocean City on August 5th and needed some more information to complete the report. I asked Owner if he had the estimates for the damage to both PWC's. Owner stated that the Red PWC was a total loss. The value of the PWC at the time of the accident was $14,000. Owner said the damage of the blue PWC is estimated at $3000. As a result of both the damages from the PWC's and injured to Operator1, the accident met the threshold for a reportable boat accident.

ALL EVENTS OCCURRED IN WORCESTER COUNTY.


BARDID: MD-2023-0078
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-08-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:14:00
State: MD
NameOfBodyOfWater: Safe Harbor Marina
NearestCityTown: Grasonville
County: Queen Annes
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: Y
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: Y
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On August 20, 2023, I, Off., of the Maryland Natural Resources Police responded to a boating accident at Safe Harbor Marina, Kent Narrows.

When we arrived, we observed 3 boats tied to the dock with noticeable damage. After conducting interviews, it was discovered that the operator of the cutwater boat with registration was undocking his boat from Red Eyes Dock Bar when the bow of his boat was taken by the current and pushed into 2 other vessels.

Vessel 2 has a registration.

Vessel 3 has a registration and two people were on the vessel actively docking the boat when opeartor1 struck them. Operator3 was operating vessel 3 and occupant was on the bow tying the lines to the boat when it was struck. The collision caused occupant to flip forward into the water causing minor scrapes to her legs, arms and hands. EMS was not needed.

We collected witness statements including a dock hand at the marina. All statements were uploaded to the report. 

Pictures were taken of all vessel damages and uploaded to the report.

All events occurred in Queen Anne's County.


BARDID: MD-2023-0079
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:10:00
State: MD
NameOfBodyOfWater: Severn River-Annapolis City Do
NearestCityTown: Annapolis
County: Anne Arundel
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: Y
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On August 3, 2023, at approximately 1543 hours I, Officer of the Maryland Natural Resources Police was provided with information regarding a property damage boating accident that occurred on July 23, 2023. The complainant/ reporting party was identified.

I made contact with Subject via telephone who advised the accident occurred on July 23, 2023 at approximately 0910 hours. Subject stated her vessel identified as USCG Documented Vessel "Bad Influence" (USCG# 1176112) was struck by USCG Documented Vessel "Operator1's Roost" (USCG# 1093498) and sustained superficial damage to the port side rub rail in the area of the bow. For the duration of this report it should be noted that "Operator1's Roost" will be referred to as "Vessel 1" and "Bad Influence" will be referred to as "Vessel 2." 

Subject further stated Vessel 2 was docked inside Ego Alley of Spa Creek, Severn River. Subject advised that the stern of Vessel 1 struck her vessel as it was leaving from neighboring Slip directly next to the port side of Vessel 2. Subject stated that directly after the accident she was able to exchange information with Operator1 for insurance purposes. Subject explained she was initially unsure of the total cost of the damages and has since received an estimate of $5,324.15 for the repairs. Subject's vessel is identified as a 2004 white in color Sea Ray 420 Sedan Bridge cruiser style vessel. Subject photographed the damages which are attached to this report. Subject provided a copy of the estimate which is attached to this report. It should be noted that Vessel 2 was occupied by Subject and her husband who was asleep in the vessel's cabin during the incident. There were no injuries reported. 

I made contact with Operator1 via telephone and he advised he was operating Vessel 1 attempting to leave Slip of Ego Alley, Spa Creek, Severn River. Operator1 stated that while leaving the slip he lost sight of where the stern of the vessel was in relation to the piling. Operator1 further stated that while attempting to avoid the piling, he placed the vessel in reverse and struck Vessel 2 with the stern of his vessel.

 Operator1's advised Vessel 1 sustained superficial damage to the Teak wood rail of the vessel in the area of the stern. Operator1 is not able to provide a cost to repair the damages at this time and will provide photographs when available. Operator1 advised a "friend" was also on board the vessel at this time but has not provided details regarding the subject's identity at the time of this report. Operator1's vessel is identified as a 1999 white in color Grand Banks 42 trawler style vessel. 

This case is open pending further information to be gathered from the parties involved. A supplement will be completed when information is received. 

All of the above occurred in Anne Arundel County, MD.


BARDID: MD-2023-0080
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-08-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:15:00
State: MD
NameOfBodyOfWater: 78 George Street, Earleville
NearestCityTown: Georgetown
County: Cecil
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Collision with fixed object
RedactedNarrative:
On August 14, 2023 I, Officer First Class of the Maryland Natural Resources Police assigned to Kent County, received a call for an initial report of a boating accident. The incident occurred on August 1, 2023 at Sailing Associates, Inc. on the Sassafras River.  I spoke with the caller over the phone and made arrangements to meet him at his vessel (“Bruadar” USCG# 674840) at Sailing Associates on August 15, 2023. In the meantime, Subject1 emailed me photos of the damage to his vessel, a written witness statement from the dock hand, the registration/rental information for the at fault vessel (“Glory Days” rented from Haven Charters in Rock Hall, MD), and the contact information for the individual in charge of “Glory Days.”.

On August 15, 2023, I met with Subject1 at Sailing Associates at 8:00am to view the damage to his vessel. It was still at East Dock in Slip where the accident occurred. The damage matched what I’d seen in the pictures provided by Subject1 and all pictures are attached to this report. Subject1 stated he was not present at the time of the accident but the dock hand was there assist. 

I was able to meet with Dockhand who stated that the operator of “Glory Days” was attempting to back into Slip and was getting too close to the outermost piling on his starboard stern so the passenger on the stern shouted to go forward. 

At that point, the vessel had become diagonal across the slips and when the operator put the vessel in forward, his port side struck the aluminum arch on the stern of Subject1’s vessel docked in Slip, causing significant damage to both boats. 

The aluminum arch and solar panels on Subject1’s boat “Bruadar” were bent and shifted and there was also damage to the mast. The vessel “Glory Days” sustained a long hole in the port side upper deck and damage to the upper deck railing and canvas. Dockhand also noted that the cleats on all the outermost pilings for dock lines were damaged in the incident as well. Dockhand’s written statement of the events is attached to this report.

Dockhand stated that Subject2 identified himself after the incident and explained that he rented “Glory Days” from Haven Charters (20846 Rock Hall Ave Rock Hall, MD 21661). He provided all vessel and personal contact information as well as rental information to Dockhand immediately following the accident. They stayed the night in the slip at Sailing Associates and returned to Haven Charters in Rock Hall the next morning.

After finishing at Sailing Associates, I went to Haven Charters to speak with business owner and view the damage on “Glory Days.” The vessel is privately owned but rented out for recreational use through Haven Charters. Business owner had notified the owner of the incident and they had already done temporary repairs on the vessel. Business owner provided pictures of the original damage and they are attached to this report. Business owner also shared with me a written statement and drawing depicting the accident that Subject2 provided upon returning the boat.

I spoke with Subject2 as well as operator1 the phone to get their accounts of the incident. These two, and their wives respectively, were the four total occupants of the vessel. Subject2 was at the stern, Operator1 at the helm, and wives were both at the bow at the time of the accident. Both of their accounts matched all written and verbal statements given by all other parties. Subject2 and Operator1 both stated they had numerous years of boating experience as well as taken boating safety courses but misjudged the distance of the aluminum arch on the stern of the neighboring vessel at the time and miscalculated the space needed to get into the slip. No alcohol was involved and no injuries sustained. Operator1 stated he has rented numerous times from Haven Charters with Subject2 as his mate. They have never had any issues before. Business owner confirmed this.

All parties were provided with the report number for insurance purposes.

All events occurred in Cecil and Kent counties.

Cleared without further incident. Case can be closed.


BARDID: MD-2023-0081
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-08-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:34:00
State: MD
NameOfBodyOfWater: 12913 Ocean Gateway, Ocean Cit
NearestCityTown: Ocean City
County: Worcester
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
RedactedNarrative:
I, Officer, of Maryland’s Natural Resources Police assigned to Area 1 in Worcester County Maryland, was underway on vessel NRP 155 with OFC when we were dispatched to a vessel accident in the Isle of Wight Bay near Herring Creek in Ocean City Maryland on August 23, 2023. The accident was not witnessed, but a PWC guide for Paradise Watersports noticed significant damage to one of the PWC’s hulls.

Upon arrival at Paradise Watersports in West Ocean City, the individuals who rented the PWCs involved in the accident left the scene without leaving any of their payment information. The PWC guide who noticed the damage to the PWC bearing Maryland registration, stated that he had to speak to three riders who were in the final rental group of the day several times for violating the speed and distance requirements while the PWC was underway over 6 mph. 

He witnessed the same individuals violating the rules a third time and he noticed a large crack in one of the rental PWC’s hull below the water line. The guide immediately terminated these individuals' voyage and led them back to the rental agency’s pier for their safety. When they arrived at the pier the involved renters were described as disrespectful, disorderly, and left despite requests from the rental agency staff to provide payment information. It should be noted that the PWC is incorrectly marked, but the registration sticker and HIN numbers match. 

Operator1 states that he and his friends rented PWCs on the final rental trip of the night on 8/23/23. He was instructed by the rental guides to board vessel G bearing MD Registration. Operator1 stated that as he was boarding the PWC, “someone else was still on there trying to get off.” Neither the rental staff nor Operator1 conducted a pre-ride inspection of the PWC.  Operator1 denies ever making contact with anyone or anything while he was underway. He states that his PWC “ran out of gas and the gas light sign kept coming up and beeping.” A rental guide came over to him noticed the crack in the hull and terminated his voyage. Upon their return to the pier, Operator1 was accused of causing damage to the ski, but no one witnessed any type of accident. Operator1 states rental staff were argumentative and “racist” towards him so he left as they refused to “call a manager or the police.” Operator1 and other members of his party waited nearly “40 minutes” for police to arrive before they left the scene. He provided photos of him riding the PWC with time stamps. The crack is visible in his photos but he again denies any impact or collision.

Due to conflicting information between parties, a lack of witnesses, and no pre-ride inspection being completed, no charges will be filed for the rider. Information and photographs were collected for an accident report.

All events occurred in Worcester County Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2023-0082
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-08-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:09:00
State: MD
NameOfBodyOfWater: 5639 Walnut St, Rock Hall
NearestCityTown: Rock Hall
County: Kent
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: Y
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On August 12th, 2023, at approximately 1330 hrs, I, (Officer of the Maryland Natural Resources Police), received a call for a vessel accident that had occurred on August 11th, 2023, at approximately 1900 Hrs in Rock Hall harbor. I responded by vessel to the location of the accident at approximately 1330 hrs and spoke to Subject1. Both vessels were on scene in their slips where I took pictures and got all of Subject1s info and everything Operator2 gave him the night before. I made contact with Operator2 via cell phone later.

On August 11th, 2023, at approximately 1900 hrs the vessel "Black Rose" (Documentation Number 639008) was docked on the T-Head of C dock at North Point Marina. The vessel's owner was on board the vessel at the time. A 40-foot formula "Roxy" attempted to back into its slip straight across from Black Rose. 

Operator2 advised he gave the vessel forward throttle to stop his reversing movement. After going into forward gear, the throttles did not respond appropriately and would not properly go out of gear to get back into neutral. Because of this the Roxy kept moving forward and, the bow and anchor of "Roxy" punctured the starboard side of Black Rose approximately mid-ship, causing an approximately 8in by 8in hole(see attached pictures).

The vessels owners exchanged insurance information the night of the incident. The owner of "Black Rose" reported the incident the following day. All events occurred in Kent County, Maryland. This case may be closed no further police action is needed.


BARDID: MD-2023-0083
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-08-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:20:00
State: MD
NameOfBodyOfWater: South River-South River(Rt 2)
NearestCityTown: Edgewater
County: Anne Arundel
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On August 13, 2023, at approximately 1841 hours I, Officer of the Maryland Natural Resources Police was dispatched to South River Jet Ski Rentals located at 48 S River Rd, Edgewater, MD 21037 in reference to a property damage boating accident involving two rented jet skis. The complainant was identified as the owner of the rental company. 

Upon arrival at approximately 1914 hours, I met with Subject1 who advised he had rented two jet skis that were returned damaged, and he believes they were involved in a collision. Vessel One is identified as a green in color Kawasaki jet ski bearing Maryland registration. Vessel Two is identified as a blue in color Yamaha jet ski bearing Maryland registration. The customers were later identified using their state issued driver's licenses.

I observed Vessel One to be undamaged with a small amount of blue paint transfer on the bottom starboard side of the vessel towards the stern. I further observed that Vessel Two sustained scuff marks and damage to the fiberglass hull of the vessel on its port side. The damage to Vessel Two can be described as a hole in the fiberglass. All damages were photographed on scene and attached to this report. 

I spoke with guide who advised that she acted as a guide during the time Operator1 and Operator2 rented the jet skis. Guide advised in the South River near Red Marker #12 she observed Operator1 and Operator2 operating the jet skis parallel to one another. 

Guide stated she watched as both Operator1 and Operator2 were knocked off their skis at the same time near the other. Guide further stated she was not able to see if the jet skis collided as she observed "water" between the jet skis. Guide advised when she went up to the Operator1 and Operator2, she observed that Vessel Two was damaged and barely operational. Guide further advised she switched jet skis with Operator2 and operated Vessel Two back to the marina after several attempts to get it to start. 

I met with Operator2 who I immediately observed was irate and initially uncooperative. Operator2 advised that while operating Vessel Two he was jumping the wakes of other vessels at approximately "30 miles per hour." Operator2 advised he and Operator1 were jumping the same wake when he landed badly, damaging the jet ski and knocking him off the ski. Operator2 maintained that he and Operator1 did not collide, and the damage was caused by the wake. Operator2 insisted that he and Operator1 were always “100 feet” apart. I spoke with Operator1 who gave the same account of the events. Both Operator2 and Operator1 declined to give a written statement of the events.

Subject1 advised that Vessel One is not damaged and does not require repair. Subject1 further advised that he would obtain an estimate for the cost to repair Vessel Two but believes the vessel may be a total loss. I provided Subject1 with the case number associated with this report.


Case remains open pending further information to be obtained.

All the events occurred in Anne Arundel County, MD.


BARDID: MD-2023-0084
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2023-08-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:22:00
State: MD
NameOfBodyOfWater: Sinepuxent Bay, Berlin
NearestCityTown: Ocean City
County: Worcester
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent2: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On August 16, 2023 at around 1720 hours I, Officer of the Maryland Natural Resources Police, was underway on my patrol vessel in the Sinepuxent Bay when I received a report of a personal watercraft (PWC) accident near Castaways Campground from the Department of Natural Resources Police Communications Center.  

I responded to the area and could see in the far distance two PWCs that were aground on a sandbar close to the Assateague shoreline. One of the employees for Oceanside Watersports in Ocean City came out to meet me. The employee was a PWC guide and he informed me that one PWC hit another and that the one PWC is most likely a total loss with a lot of damage. 

I asked the guide if there were any injuries to any riders and the guide responded that there was no injuries to anyone involved in the accident. The guide along with 2 other guides were able to tow both PWCs back to Oceanside Watersports located at 710 South Philadelphia Ave Ocean City Maryland. I followed the two PWCs and involved persons back to Oceanside Watersports.

I identified operator2 as the operator of the striking jetski with Maryland registration. I then identified operator1 as the operator of the struck jetski with Maryland registration. I identified myself as an Officer with the Maryland Natural Resources Police and that I would be investigating the PWC accident that had just occurred. I asked both Operator2 and Operator1 if they would like to write a witness statement of the events that occurred that day and both agreed.

I asked Operator2 if he was ok and if he had any injuries. He said he was ok just shook up. I asked Operator2 how the accident happened. Operator2 stated that he was following Operator1 in front of him and both cruising north. Operator2 was cruising at about 25 miles per hour and then either hit a wave or sandbar and that caused his PWC to go up in the air causing him to fall off. 

Operator1 was going about 15 miles per hour and his PWC was about 3 PWC lengths in front of him about 20 feet when Operator2’s PWC then fell on top of Operator1s PWC which was directly in front of Operator2. Operator1 did not know what happened and had no awareness of Operator2 hitting something and then falling off. There was no action he could take to avoid such a fast collision. 

I then asked Operator1 if he was ok and he stated he was ok.
The struck PWC that Operator1 was operating had a rupture in the fiberglass extending along the entirety of the hull from bow to stern. It looked to be a total loss.

The striking PWC Operator2 was operating had some scratches but overall looked to be in good shape.
Upon inspecting both vessels and reading the operators statements, I determined that Operator2 was operating above 6 knots within hundred feet of Operator1. Operator2’s inexperience operating a PWC also contributed to the accident and failed to obey US Coast Guard Navigation Rule 8 Action to avoid collision.

A warning was issued for Nav Rules violation and a citation for operating a PWC over 6 knots within hundred feet of another vessel.

ALL EVENTS OCCURRED IN WORCESTER COUNTY


BARDID: MD-2023-0085
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-08-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:18:00
State: MD
NameOfBodyOfWater: Solomans Yachting Center
NearestCityTown: Solomons
County: Calvert
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On August 22, 2023, I, Officer, and Corporal of the Maryland Naturel Resources Police, while on patrol in Calvert County, MD, received a call for a boat accident down in Solomon's Island harbor at the Solomon's Island Yachting Center. 

Upon arrival, I met with the owner of the striking vessel (boat 1). He stated that while his vessel, the Serendipity, a 38.2 ft cabin cruiser, was attempting to return to the slip, a strong wind gust pushed it into the second vessel (boat 2), the RHP Recess, a 42 ft post. 

During this vessel collision, both vessels received damage. The Serendipity sustained damage in the rear port quarter on the main structure, causing the hard plastic "upper cabin body" to break apart and crack, as well as a bend/dent in the railing leading from the main gunnel deck to the upper cabin. The damage sustained to Boat 2 can be seen at the bow pulpit/anchor windless area, resulting in hull damage to the fiberglass structure holding the pulpit and anchor windless up. 

I was able to make contact with Boat 2, the RHP Recess owner by phone. Subject1 informed me that he had sent a representative to meet with me to discuss further damage to his vessel. Subject2 has been working for Subject1 for around six months on his vessel as a mechanic/handyman/deckhand. After Subject2 looked at the damage to the vessel, he provided me with some specific information about the vessel's overall state after the collision. Based on Subject2's training and work experience, he estimated more than 2,500 dollars in damages to the RHP Recess. 

No injuries were observed/expressed, resulting in property damage to vessels greater than 2,000 dollars. 
Business cards were presented to all involved parties with incident/report numbers attached. 

All events occurred in Calvert County, MD.


BARDID: MD-2023-0086
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-08-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:35:00
State: MD
NameOfBodyOfWater: Chester River, Chestertown
NearestCityTown: Chestertown
County: Kent
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: Y
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Equipment failure
AccidentCause2: People on gunwale, bow, or transom
EquipmentFailure: Other
OtherEquipmentFailure: latch
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
RedactedNarrative:
On 08/26/2023, at approximately 0637 PM, I, Officer First Class of the Maryland Natural Resource Police, responded for a boat accident involving a sixty year old male who had fallen overboard and suffered a propeller strike to the right upper leg. 

I was accompanied by Corporal also of the Maryland Natural Resource Police. The involved vessel was a 24ft Tracker Pontoon vessel, Delaware registration, with 4 occupants. The vessel was being operated by the owner. 

            We arrived on-scene at approximately 0645 PM at the Chestertown Marina where we met with subjects who were still aboard the vessel. Victim had already been transported by EMS and was en route to Baltimore Shock Trauma. I spoke with Operator, who advised that the accident occurred on the Chester River at Hambleton Creek.

            The vessel had just left a sandbar in the Chester River off of Hambleton Creek on the Queen Anne County side, and were cruising at approximately 10 knots. Victim was at the bow of the pontoon vessel, inside the railing, and was attempting to close and secure the gate on the bow. Victim pushed down on the gate, but it did not seat into its bracket and instead swung outward, and he fell overboard. 

Operator stated that he immediately turned off the motor and began raising it. Victim surfaced at the stern of the vessel, with his swim trunks caught in the motor's propeller. It was not until the other occupants of the vessel had helped Victim climb into the boat that it was noticed he had a 4-6 inch laceration on the backside of his upper right leg. They immediately called for EMS, and went to Chestertown Marina to meet them.

            Victim was interviewed at Baltimore Shock Trauma by Officer First Class of the Maryland Natural Resource Police. It was advised that Victim had received stitches, and had been released.

            The weather conditions were clear skies, calm seas, a calm northeast wind, and there was light traffic in the area.

            No violations had occurred.

            All events took place in Queen Anne, Kent, and Baltimore Counties, Maryland.

            This case is closed.


BARDID: MD-2023-0087
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-08-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 05:38:00
State: MD
NameOfBodyOfWater: Sandy Point State Park-East Be
NearestCityTown: Annapolis
County: Anne Arundel
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause3: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On August 27, 2023 at approximately 5:35 AM, I, Corporal of the Maryland Natural Resources Police, received a call regarding a vessel that had washed ashore at Sandy Point State Park in the East Beach location of the park. After notifying the Maryland Natural Resources Police about the vessel, Sandy Point State Park Duty Ranger, then updated the Maryland Natural Resources Police Communication Center adding two individuals were on board the vessel just waking up after having been asleep.

Upon my arrival, at approximately 6:05 AM, I saw a female sitting on the operator’s chair of the vessel, later identified by driver’s license and a second individual standing next to the vessel drinking a bottle of water, later identified by driver’s license. The anchor of the vessel had been set by one of the occupants and the vessel was sitting on the sand where the 3 to 5 inch waves would break. The 22-foot white Pro-Line vessel displayed current Maryland registration, with dual registered owners. 

Subject and Operator were both awake and alert when I made initial contact with both individuals, however both appeared to have visible injuries to the face and various parts of their bodies. Subject had a laceration to the left side of her temple, a small cut on her left elbow, a contusion on her left thumb, a contusion on the top of her right hand, and bruising on her left knee. 

Operator had a moderate odor of alcoholic beverage coming from his person and exhibited glassy eyes. He had a laceration under his chin and bruising on his left thigh. Anne Arundel County Fire and Emergency Medical Services arrived approximately 6:20 AM to evaluate both occupants who were on the vessel. Both individuals verbally refused medical treatment at the scene. 

Numerous blood droplets and pools of blood could be seen on the center console of the vessel and on the floor in front of the operator's position. A single blood droplet was seen on the vessel’s Garmin GPS unit, which was mounted on top of the center console of the vessel. Blood was also seen on the lid and running down the side of the blue and white Coleman cooler on the vessel, seen in between the operator's chair and the center console of the vessel. Blood could also be seen on the port and starboard gunwales of the vessel.

When asked, Operator stated prior to ending up at East Beach, they were at Tolchester Beach located in Kent County, Maryland. Operator and Subject both stated they were anchored out at Tolchester Beach to watch the sunset before heading back to Bodkin Creek located in Anne Arundel County, Maryland. 

Operator stated he leaves his vessel on a lift at Bodkin Creek. I asked if they were rafted up with friends or at The Shanty Beach Bar, located at Tolchester Beach. Both Operator and Subject denied being at the bar, not ordering any food or drinks, and stated they were not rafted up with friends. When asked if he had any alcoholic beverages in the evening, Operator admitted to Sergeant and myself that he had “about 3 or 4 beers.” Subject stated she had “maybe 2 beers…Mich Ultra,” when she was asked if she had any alcoholic beverage to drink during the evening. 

Because Operator admitted to having alcoholic beverages and had a moderate odor of alcoholic beverage coming from his person, he was asked if he wanted to submit to a PBT. Operator refused to submit to a PTB. He then consented to opening the Coleman cooler located on the deck of the boat, at the time it was in between the helm of the vessel and the operators chair. When Operator opened the cooler, he turned the cooler in a position which would make it harder for me to see inside. The cooler was still on the boat and I was standing on the sand. Operator didn’t remove the cooler from the vessel, rather, he maneuvered the cooler so the lid would block a clear view of the contents inside. While I was attempting to look, he immediately reached inside the cooler and began fumbling with the contents inside the cooler, then proceeded to allow the lid to close while I was looking inside. I was able to see five Michelob Ultra beers and a Snapple tea. Two of the Michelob Ultra beer cans were open, while three of the Michelob Ultra beer cans were unopened. Due to the deceitful behavior Operator displayed while the cooler was open, I cannot confirm if there were more contents inside that cooler.

While talking with Operator, he stated they pulled their anchor at Tolchester Beach around sunset, which according to The Weather Channel, sunset was at 7:47 PM Saturday, August 26, 2023, and began to make their way back to Bodkin Creek. When I originally asked, Operator couldn’t recall how fast he was traveling after leaving the Tolchester Beach area, but then stated he was on plane for about 2 hours until the vessel he was operating “hit something.” 

I asked Operator if he knew what he hit, and he stated “it felt like it was something underneath the boat, and sounded like a ‘bang’” adding that it was dark and he did not see any other boats around them before or after the impact occurred. Operator was very persistent that it was dark at the time of the initial impact. When asked, Operator could not provide or describe any details or identify any navigational markers or lights in the area. I asked Operator if he saw a moon out, to which he responded he did not. 

After the impact, he initially stated that he did not slow the boat down to check his surroundings or look for any damage to the vessel. He then retracted his statement after observing me taking notes, saying that he slowed down, looked around at their surroundings, then made the decision to go to “the beach,” but was unsure of where they were. Although Operator retracted his statement making claim that he slowed the boat down to check his surroundings, he still could not provide me with a description of lights from shore, or navigation lights on the Chesapeake Bay, or even the lights for the Chesapeake Bay Bridge. Operator stated his GPS unit was on at the time, however claimed he was not utilizing the GPS unit to help him navigate the waterway in the dark.

In Subject’s statement she had mentioned that it was about a half-hour to an hour after leaving Tolchester Beach when “we hit something.” She could not recall what they hit, adding that it was dark when the accident occurred. Subject also described the sound as a “loud bang,” but could not provide any information on what they may have struck. She included in her statement that there were no boats around when they hit the object and could not provide or describe to me any details on identifying navigation lights or markers in the area. 

Both individuals stated that the impact to whatever they hit was so great, it caused the vessel to slow down, causing both occupants to get thrown forward from their seated positions on the vessel. I asked Operator if there were any issues with his motor after the impact, to which he stated “no.” At the time leading up to the collision, Subject stated she was seated to the right of Operator, who was operating the vessel at the time. Operator admitted to operating the vessel that night. He also added that he was comfortable operating a vessel at night, “up until last night.” It is unknown what object the occupants hit which caused the injuries to their faces and bruising to their limbs, however due to th


BARDID: MD-2023-0088
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-08-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:46:00
State: MD
NameOfBodyOfWater: Ches Bay & Tribs-Bay Bridge Ea
NearestCityTown: Stevesville
County: Queen Annes
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: Y
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: Y
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
RedactedNarrative:
On August 27, 2023, I, Offs, both of the Maryland Natural Resources Police, received a call for a sailboat that struck the Bay Bridge.

When we arrived on scene, there was a white sailboat approximately 51 feet in length displaying the name "True North" hailing from Lewes, Delaware. It was anchored, and the mast was broken from the base and was in the water. There were 5 people on board with no injuries and no visible damage to the Bay Bridge.

After conducting an interview, Operator1 stated that they were going under the same part of the bridge that they always go under, but today when they went under they hit the top. When the mast made contact with the bridge, it snapped and fell over onto the vessel's canopy. The vessel was unable to navigate back to the Bay Bridge Marina due to the damages. Tow Boat US arrived and advised that they will be towing the vessel back to the marina.

A boating accident report was completed. Pictures were taken of the vessel and the bridge. Witness statements were completed. 

All events occurred in Queen Anne's County.


BARDID: MD-2023-0089
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-08-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:14:00
State: MD
NameOfBodyOfWater: Deep Creek Lake, Swanton
NearestCityTown: Swanton
County: Garrett
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On 08/27/2023, at approximately 1620 hours, I, Ofc. with Maryland Natural Resources Police, was directed by DNR Communication to go to Garrett Regional Medical Center (Hospital), for an injured subject that had been boating on Deep Creek Lake, Swanton, Maryland.

I arrived at the hospital and met the victim, 78-year-old. Victim explained that she was sitting in the passenger seat with her back to the water when a wave came and hit the boat, causing her to bounce up off the seat, then back down. She was experiencing pain in her lower back and hips. The boat owner and operator was in the waiting room.

I interviewed Operator. She explained that she was operating her boat, bearing Maryland registration at a slow cruising speed on the south end of Deep Creek Lake near Holy Cross and Blakeslee cove, when a three-foot wave from a wake boat came towards the left side of her boat and struck them. 

Operator's vessel is a 1987 Supra with a low hull. She explained that she tried to maneuver the boat to not be effected by the wave, but it still hit the left side and jarred the boat and Victim. The passenger seat of that boat is turned around facing backwards. Two other passengers were in the boat at the time of the incident. 

Subject1 explained that she was sitting in the back of the boat behind the operator, Operator, so she was not able to see the wave. Subject2 was also sitting in the back, but on the left side of the boat behind Victim. She saw the wave in just enough time to reach across and grab onto subject1’s arm to warn her and brace for impact. No other passengers were injured. No one was wearing life jackets at the time. 

Pictures were taken of the boat and are attached to this report. 

All events occurred in Garrett County, Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2023-0090
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-08-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:23:00
State: MD
NameOfBodyOfWater: Severn River
NearestCityTown: Annapolis
County: Anne Arundel
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
RedactedNarrative:
On 08/28/2023, at approximately 1723 Hrs., this officer, Cpl., responded to a priority one boating accident located in front of the waterfront residence. I responded to the accident aboard Natural Resources Police patrol vessel 894 from Sandy Point State Park. At approximately 1732 Hrs., I heard over the radio that a male subject, was pulled out of the water and CPR was in progress. At approximately 1736 Hrs., I arrived on scene behind Annapolis Fire Boat 36, and docked NRP 894 at the pier. As I exited the vessel onto land, two NRP land units, Ofc. also arrived on scene. The scene was busy. EMS personnel already had Operator1 loaded on a stretcher while providing CPR and moving him to the ambulance. A woman, later identified as Operator1's wife, Operator2, was wearing a personal flotation device and walking alongside EMS personnel taking Operator1 to the ambulance. Ofc.1 followed the ambulance to Anne Arundel Medical Center located in Annapolis. Ofc.2 and I started to access the scene and gather witness statements from multiple people that were located at the property.

    There were multiple vessels on scene, which included the Annapolis Harbour Master, Tow Boat US, and Annapolis Fire boat 36. There were also two yellow pontoon vessels overturned together next to the bulkhead of the property, later identified as Hydro-Riders approximately 10 ft long, and one upright elliptical style Hydro-Rider next to them. I started to take pictures of the initial boat locations while Ofc.2 started to get witness statements. 

    I talked to the owner and operator of Dove Watercraft Rentals and Tours located on Spa Creek next to Truxtun Park, and based out of Spa Cove Apartments and Marina. Owner stated that the Operator1's rented the Hydro-Glide self-propelled vessels from him at approximately 1700 Hrs. Operator2 was on a bicycle style Hydro-Glider and Operator1 was on an elliptical style Hydro-Glider vessel. Owner stated that approximately 20 minutes later, he heard a woman frantically screaming for help. Owner said immediately jumped onto his Elliptical Hydro-Glider, located at Spa Creek Apartments and Marina, and frantically made is way over to where Operator2 was located next to the bulkhead. Owner stated that it took at least 8 to 9 minutes to manually get his vessel on location. Owner then jumped into the water when he realized Operator1 was still under the capsized elliptical. Owner stated he tried to get Operator1's head above the waterline, but he was entangled, and he could not free him.

    I then spoke with Tow Boat US located approximately 500 Yards up Spa Creek from the accident location. Subject1 said they initially heard a woman screaming but couldn't pinpoint where it was coming from, probably due to multiple moored vessels located between there dock and the scene. Subject2 stated that he received a call from their boss saying there was an accident reported somewhere near them on Spa Creek. Subject2 and Subject1 both stated that they jumped onto Tow Boat,''Reliant" and started searching. When they arrived in front, Subject2 stated that he saw Owner attempting to rescue somebody and the women screaming. Owner said he needed a knife to cut Operator1 free. Subject2 jumped into the water with a knife to assist Owner. Subject2 stated that he thinks he cut a couple straps of the PFD Operator1 was wearing and were able to free him. Owner and Subject2 pulled Operator1 onto the upright elliptical Hydro-Glider deck and began CPR on Operator1. Shortly after, EMS arrived on scene and took over CPR.

    Meanwhile, an employee of the Annapolis Harbor Master's office and operating a City Zodiac, arrived on scene and shuttled some additional EMS personnel from the far side of Spa Creek to assist. 
    Witness statements and pictures were taken at the scene and attached in the report.

    We towed both capsized Hydro-Glider vessels back over to Truxtun Park boat Ramp aboard the Annapolis City Harbor Master Vessel. We were able to flip both vessels over at the ramp and secure them for pictures. I took pictures of both vessels, slips, and waiver forms that Owner sated he had the Operator1's sign. Owner also produced insurance information for Dove Watercraft Tours and Rentals LLC. 

   Both Hydro-Glide vessels were released back to Owner, per NRP Investigator. The Blue Onyx Type 3 PFD was entered into evidence and is located in Locker #10, at the Broadneck Office, located at 1070 East College Parkway Annapolis, MD.

All occurred in state waters, Anne Arundel County.

  On Monday August 28, 2023, at approximately 1808 hrs, I Cpl., of the Natural Resources Police, Criminal Investigation Section, was contacted by the SOD DO, Sgt. to respond to Anne Arundel Medical Center for a near drowning.  At approximately 2215 hrs, I arrived at Anne Arundel Medical Center. The victim, Operator1, was admitted to the hospital and being cared for in the Intensive Care Unit.  I spoke with the victim's wife, Operator2. She provided the following written statement: “[sic] I took a bike boat, and my husband took a walking boat, and we decided we’d switch in middle. While switching, one or both boats capsized and we were underneath. I got up but he was stuck for a few minutes, I screamed for help and a few minutes later help came.” The preliminary investigation indicates the victim, and his wife rented a paddle bike catamaran and a paddle elliptical catamaran. While on the waters of Spa Creek, the victim, and his wife decided to switch which paddle craft they were operating.  While attempting to move between paddle crafts, the paddle crafts capsized, entrapping the victim and his wife under the paddle crafts. The wife was able to resurface and yell for help.  A good Samaritan vessel came alongside the paddle craft and was able to free the victim from underneath the paddle craft.  The victim was brought ashore, and CPR was administered until EMS arrived. The victim was transported to Anne Arundel Medical Center where he was admitted into the ICU.  The family had the victim him transferred to University of Maryland Medical Center, where he remains in the ICU.


BARDID: MD-2023-0091
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-09-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:41:00
State: MD
NameOfBodyOfWater: Chester River-Main Stem-North
NearestCityTown: Chestertown
County: Kent
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
AccidentCause2: Sharp turn
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
RedactedNarrative:
On September 3, 2023, I, Officer First Class with the Maryland Natural Resources Police (NRP) received a call from NRP dispatch of a boating injury that had occurred on the Chester River in Chestertown.  NRP dispatch advised a Victim was at Shore Medical Hospital in Chestertown after sustaining an injury while tubing.  I responded to Shore Medical and met with Victim. 

Victim had an approximately two inch laceration to the right side of his forehead that he had sustained when thrown from the tube.  Victim said he was in the middle of two other people on the tube and may have hit one of them when thrown.  Victim said operator was operating the boat and had made a starboard turn to hit a wake.  The turn and wake caused all three tube riders to be thrown.  Subject1 was seated in the stern starboard seat of the boat was observing the tube.  He was at the hospital with Victim and provided me with his information. I left Shore Medical and met with operator and the other occupants of the vessel.

All events occurred in Kent County, Maryland.


BARDID: MD-2023-0092
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-08-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 23:15:00
State: MD
NameOfBodyOfWater: 1001 Carrs Wharf Rd
NearestCityTown: Edgewater
County: Anne Arundel
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On 08/31/2023 at approximately 10:16 AM, I, Ofc. of the Maryland Natural Resources Police received a call for service about a boat accident that occurred on 08/25/2023 between 10:45 and 11:45 PM. The caller was later identified by driver’s license and reported that he was operating his vessel when he collided with Carrs Wharf in the Rhode River.

At approximately 11:16 AM, I met with Subject at his vessel. Subject’s vessel was identified as a 2003 51-foot Viking powerboat with a Maryland registration (and redundant Coast Guard documentation # 1146978). The vessel bore no certificate of number or Maryland display use sticker on its hull and Subject had the Maryland certificate of number/sticker and Coast Guard Documentation onboard his vessel. 

Subject filed a claim through his insurance (Chubbs North America Policy) and a marine surveyor had been at his vessel earlier that morning to document the damage to his vessel. I conducted a safety inspection of Subject’s vessel. All required items were on board. Subject said he had over 500 hours of boating experience, had not taken a boating safety course, and said that he had consulted the weather before his use of the boat on 08/25/2023.

Subject said he had 4 passengers on his vessel at the time of the accident. Subject told me he had taken the boat to the Jetty restaurant in Kent Island and was heading into the Rhode River Marina in Bear Neck Creek of the Rhode River to drop his passengers off at approximately 11:00 PM on 08/25/2023. He advised he was traveling 12-14 knots and had his navigation lights on as he was navigating around Carrs Wharf at the entrance to Bear Neck Creek. He then saw a small Jon boat under 16 feet in length with unknown persons onboard in the channel of the wharf that had no navigation lights. He reportedly swerved to his starboard side to avoid a collision but collided with the end of the dock at Carrs Wharf.

His vessel sustained a hole in the starboard side of the hull about 4 inches from the bow. The hole appeared to be 3 inches by 2 inches. A large fiberglass gouge was observed from the hull fracture leading aft along the starboard side. The gouge was approximately 3 feet long by 1 foot wide and ¾ inch deep. From the gouge leading aft, a scrape that was approximately 6 feet long and 1 foot wide was observed. The scrape was brown. Above the scrape at the blue boot stripe on the starboard side and under the foremost window was a gouge approximately 3 feet wide by 4 inches high (pictures attached to this report).

Subject said that he had not been drinking/under the influence at the time of the accident and did not know any notification should be made about the accident. I asked Subject if he had notified Anne Arundel County Parks about the damage Carrs Wharf sustained. He said he went back to the wharf and did not observe any damage. Under NR 8-724, a boat accident of over $2,000 is required to be reported within 10 days. Additionally, the operator shall give the name, address, and identification of the operator’s vessel to the owner of any property damaged.

Subject said that his navigational GPS was on at the time of the accident, but his radar unit was off. When asked why his radar was off, Subject said he had it on but turned it off while entering the Rhode River. His 4 passengers were all in the cockpit of the vessel at the time of the accident.  The collision threw all persons onboard to the port side of the cabin and no injuries were reported. Subject said his propellers likely sustained damage after the accident as it drifted into shallow water adjacent to Carrs Wharf and hit bottom. Subject could not provide an estimate for the damage and only said the marine surveyor told him that the vessel would not be “totaled,” but the damage would be in the tens of thousands of dollars. He said his boat was insured for a value of $243,000. I provided several Witness Statements (NRP-425A) for Subject and his passengers to fill out.

I then went to Carrs Wharf and documented the damage to the pier (pictures attached to this report). The two pilings closest to Bear Neck Creek at the T-head of the dock had numerous scrapes and gouges. There was fiberglass and white paint embedded in one of the pilings. The deck strut between the two pilings was snapped in half and a metal sign on the bulkhead of the dock was partially hanging. The bulkhead under the middle piling had an approximately 5-inch-long scrape.  Additionally, both pilings had gouges approximately 6 inches above the deck of the pier. The closest piling to Bear Neck Creek’s gouge was approximately 2 feet high and 1 foot wide. The center piling gouge was approximately 5 inches high and 5 inches wide. I emailed the superintendent of Anne Arundel County Parks pictures of the damage as well as the insurance claim information and boating accident report number. They will have an engineer survey the damage and update me when an estimate is obtained. 

A Coast Guard boat accident report is attached to this report.

This case is open and pending further investigation and charges against Subject.

All events occurred in Anne Arundel County.


BARDID: MD-2023-0093
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-09-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:23:00
State: MD
NameOfBodyOfWater: Potomac River
NearestCityTown: Namjemoy
County: Charles
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Unseen water hazard
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
On September 3rd, 2023, at approximately 2:25 p.m., I, Ofc. of the Maryland Natural Resources Police received a call for a vessel taken on water with four people onboard near Mallows Bay on the Potomac River. I responded aboard NRP 878 out of Aqualand Marina.

When I got to the area, the operator and his passengers had managed to beach the boat near Mallows Bay (38.45502 N - 77.26519 W). Towboat US was able to secure the boat and all its passengers. Towboat US took the boat and passengers back to the marina where they had launched from, Tyme N' Tyde Marina, located at 14603 Featherstone Rd, Woodbridge, VA 22191. 

The vessel's operator stated while traveling south on the Potomac River at approximately 35 knots. He struck something submerged in water, causing damage to his out-drive and allowing water to enter the vessel. He did not appear to be under the influence of drugs or alcohol during the accident.
Additionally, I conducted a safety inspection on the vessel, and no violations were found.
No injuries were reported or observed.
He estimated the amount of damage to his vessel at $20,000
Case Closed


BARDID: MD-2023-0094
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-08-19 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:57:00
State: MD
NameOfBodyOfWater: 9610 Orland Park Road, Newburg
NearestCityTown: Newburg
County: Charles
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: Y
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentCause3: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On 08/19/2023 at approximately 11:00 PM I, Officer First Class, of the Maryland Natural Resources Police (assigned to Charles County), responded to the area of Aqualand Marina in Newburg, Md. for reports of a vessel that struck an unknown object in the water, resulting in injured people aboard the vessel. 

According to the report relayed to me from the communications dispatcher, Charles County 911 services reported that a subject reported that there was one male patient aboard the vessel that was semi 
 conscious, and one injured child with unspecified injuries. 

I arrived on scene at Aqualand Marina at approximately 11:10 PM. Upon arrival, I observed several Charles County fire and EMS vehicles with emergency lights activated, located near the boat dock on Clifton Creek. I was immediately met by Deputy Fire Chief (of Newburg Fire Company). Chief told me that he and his crew arrived on scene at Aqualand at approximately 11:00 PM and observed a yellow and white vessel matching the description of the distressed vessel reported to him, already tied to the dock on Clifton Creek. Chief said he observed six people aboard the vessel and each person aboard the vessel verbally confirmed to him that all persons were accounted for with no one missing.

 Chief told me the occupants of the vessel reported to him that they were underway and struck an unknown object causing the vessel to come to an abrupt stop at which time all occupants of the vessel were thrown onto the deck of the vessel. According to Chief, there were three people in two ambulances, being evaluated by emergency medical personnel for injuries consistent with a vessel accident in which the vessel occupants were rapidly launched into a fixed object.

I entered one of the ambulances where two female juvenile victims were being treated by EMS for lacerations to the upper body and face. I observed blood stains on the clothing of each patient. Each patient appeared alert, coherent, and responsive.

I interviewed Victim6, and she told me that she was seated on the vessel while it was traveling at speeds of approximately 20 MPH. Victim6 told me the vessel was being operated near the vicinity of the Harry Nice Bridge on the Potomac River, and they were headed back to Port Tobacco Marina where the vessel is kept. 

According to Victim6, the vessel struck something, “Left behind from the old bridge,” and she said it was, “Big and white.” Victim6 said at that moment she hit her head on something hard and both she and Subject1 were thrown to the front of the vessel. Victim6 told me she lost consciousness and when she awoke, she had a nosebleed and a laceration on her head. According to Victim6, that's when Victim3 dialed 911 and Operator drove the boat to the dock at Aqualand Marina.

I interviewed Subject1, and she told me that she was seated on the vessel while it was traveling at speeds of approximately 20 MPH. Subject1 told me the vessel was being operated by Operator, near the vicinity of the Harry Nice Bridge on the Potomac River. According to Subject1, they were on their way to Port Tobacco Marina from a restaurant when the vessel struck something in the water. 

Subject1 said she and Victim6 were launched into the air, and she hit something on the vessel and lost consciousness. Subject1 was unsure of what she hit. 

EMS personnel requested that I pause my interview, so they can tend to the patient, so I stopped my questioning. As I exited the ambulance I was met by Chief. Chief informed me that the vessel owner was in the remaining ambulance, and he was accompanied by another passenger of the vessel who is currently a deputy with the Charles County Sheriff's Office and is the person that dialed 911. I entered the remaining ambulance and observed a male adult patient being treated by EMS personnel. 

Subject1 appeared alert, coherent, and responsive. Subject1 had no shirt on, and I observed dark bruising on his torso and dry blood on his head and face. Subject1 told me he was the vessel owner, and he allowed Operator to operate the vessel. According to Subject1, they were traveling at speeds of approximately "20 knots" when the vessel struck an unknown object in the water. Subject1 said at the time of the collision they were approximately one quarter mile south of the Harry Nice bridge on the Potomac River, traveling north. Subject1 said when the vessel struck the object, he was thrown into a hard surface on the boat and sustained lacerations and bruising. Subject1 told me that all occupants of the vessel were accounted for, and no one was missing. At that time, I observed Subject1 verbally refuse further treatment from the EMS personnel. Subject1 repeated several times that he was okay and did not want to be transported to the hospital or receive any further treatment. 

As I spoke to Subject1 in the ambulance there was another adult passenger of the vessel present. After I exited the ambulance, I spoke to Subject2 and asked if she was the person that dialed 911. She told me she was. I asked Subject2 to give me her account of what happened, and she told me that she was aboard Subject1’s vessel and Operator was operating the vessel. Subject2 said the vessel struck something, but she wasn’t sure what they struck. According to Subject2, all occupants of the vessel were thrown to the deck upon the collision. 

Subject2 told me she refused medical attention and was ok. 

I joined Officers at the boat dock located on Clifton Creek where I observed a yellow and white 22 foot Chaparral 224 Sunesta speed boat (bearing Maryland registration) tied to the dock. I observed a large pile of shattered glass scattered on the deck of the vessel. I also observed what appeared to be blood stains on the cushions of the bow seating of the vessel. 

The vessel had dents and gashes on the bottom portion of the vessel, towards the bow on its port side, just above the waterline with scratches in the paint as well.  Officer informed me that Operator identified himself as being the operator of the vessel when it struck the object in the water.  Officer informed me that operator’s wife stated she was uninjured and verbally refused medical treatment. Officer told me that he conducted a safety inspection of the vessel, and it was missing visual distress signals as required by 08.18.04.03 of COMAR.

I conducted an interview of Operator and asked him his account of the events that led up to the call to 911. Operator told me that he was operating the vessel at speeds of 20 MPH and the vessel was on plane. A vessel is on plane when the vessel’s hull rises up out of the water, and that vessel's hull skims over the surface of the water as the vessel reaches a fast enough speed. This was a clear indication that the vessel was exceeding six knots, based on my training, knowledge, and experience. Operator told me that he was operating the vessel in the middle of the Potomac River with th

Operator was charged with BUI, Reckless and negligent operation, failure to carry VDS, and Exceeding 6 knots in speed zone.


