# ReleasableAccidents

BARDID: FL-2023-0403
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-08-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW
NearestCityTown: MELBOURNE BEACH
County: BREVARD
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On August 6th, 2023 at approximately 1500 hours, a recreational PWC with one occupant, struck another recreational vessel with five people on board. This incident occurred in the ICW just west of Sebastian Inlet in Brevard County. This collision did not result in any injuries or fatalities. The total estimated cost of damages is $3000.
Vessel 1 Interview:
OP1 provided the following information in his sworn written statement:
"I was traveling East on Sebastian Inlet, I saw this first boat and the waves covered my vision and don't see the second boat and hit the boat in the left side.
Vessel 2 Interview:
OP2 provided the following information in his sworn written statement
"We were headed West in channel of Sebastian Inlet when we were struck by a Seadoo headed North across the channel." 
After collecting the aforementioned information from both operators, I was able to determine that the operator of vessel 1 was operating the vessel in a careless and reckless manner. At this time I find OP1 in violation of F.S 327.33 (2) careless operation of a vessel.


BARDID: FL-2023-0404
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-08-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:04:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: lake eustis
NearestCityTown: TAVARES
County: LAKE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person struck by vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Two boats colided on Lake Eustis. Occupants on vessel 2 were ejected from vessel and transported with injuries
On 8/11 I conducted interviews with the operators of both vessels and took daytime pictures. I met with OP1 who is the owner of and was operating V1 the night of the accident. I met him at his home and looked at the boat which he said he had not altered or moved since the night of the accident. I could not locate damage past what I had found the night of the accident. OP1 stated that he had been fishing the evening of 8/6 prior to the accident in Haines creek on Lake Eustis. He showed me a text message he sent at 8:51 PM telling people he was heading in from fishing and headed back to the T-Docks to load up his boat. He would have been heading Southeast to go back to the ramp. He then showed me a screen shot of his outgoing call to 911 at 8:54PM after he had been hit. He said he was going about 35-40 MPH at the time of the crash and never saw the other boat. After the crash, He could see two people in the water calling for help and the other boat going in a circle. He called 911 waited for fire/rescue came and took the occupants of the other boat back to shore. OP1 sustained a minor bump to the head and has a black eye on his right eye. He was discharged from the hospital that night. OP1 has not taken a boater safety course.
Later that day, I interviewed OP2 as well at his home. His boat was on the trailer in front of the house as well. I asked him if it had been moved or altered since the crash and he said no. OP2 was still on crutches had had a splint on his left leg. I asked him about his injuries, and he said he had just been discharged on 8/9. He had stitches on his lacerations and must attend some physical therapy but other than that his is going to make a full recovery.  OP2 made a statement to me “my attorney was wondering if y’all conducted field sobriety exercises on that guy driving the other boat?” I told him I had not since there was no wheel whiteness and no one at the scene when I arrived. Upon him telling me he hired an attorney; I thought it best to read him his Miranda rights since his attorney was not present. I read him from a prepared text (agency issued Miranda card) which he understood and agreed to answer questions. 
I asked about the boats damage and what may have been existing damage and he said there was none prior to the accident, that the boat is probably a complete loss (totaled). I observed no new damage prior to what I had seen the night of the accident and had already photographed. He said he and his girlfriend (Victim 3) had launched the boat the morning of the accident around 10:00AM. They cruised the chain of lakes for the duration of the day, stopping to swim, eat, and get gas throughout the day. Around 8:30 PM, he said they went to watch the sunset at the mouth of the Dead River. After sunset, they decided to make a loop around the lake before loading the boat up. Victim 3 was sitting to the right of OP2 as they traveled north toward Haines Creek. As they were cruising 15-20 MPH coming up on Haines Creek, OP2 said Victim 3 looked left and screamed his name. 

OP2 looked left and saw a boat going very fast right at him. That’s when he turned hard to starboard (right) and collided with the boat. OP2 and Victim 3 were both thrown from the boat, but both know how to swim good he said. He looked up and saw his boat still in motion going in a circle and coming right at them. OP2 said he pushed Victim 3 out of the way to avoid her getting hit and he in turn got run over by his own boat. His boat came to rest and they both climbed back up in his boat. Victim 3 and OP1 exchanged words and that’s when OP1 called 911. OP2 was told he blacked out prior to Fire/Rescue getting to them in the lake and being transported. OP2 has taken a boater safety course and had navigation lights present during the crash.


BARDID: FL-2023-0405
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-08-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:17:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Jackson River
NearestCityTown: UNINCORPORATED
County: GULF
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was traveling West on the Jackson River towards Lake Wimico. The operator was looking down at his electronics and hit a tree. He was ejected from the vessel into the water and the vessel circled him and ended up in the woods on the bank. The operator was taken to the hospital for treatment of his injuries. ; Operator was treated at Tallahassee Memorial for 3 fractured ribs, 4 broken lumbar in his back, and colon tears.


BARDID: FL-2023-0407
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-08-19 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:30:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: GULF OF MEXICO
NearestCityTown: KEY WEST
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Poor
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On August 19, 2023, at approximately 2030hrs V1 was travelling towards Sigsbee Naval Park when it collided with V2. V2 was alledgedly unlit at the time of the allision. V1 ramped upwards as it struck the port stern of V2 causing crush damage to V2's stern. V1 sustained crush and striation damage to the bow and keel of the vessel. No injuries were reported and V1 returned to Sigsbee Naval Park.


BARDID: FL-2023-0408
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-08-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:23:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: PEACE RIVER
NearestCityTown: PUNTA GORDA
County: CHARLOTTE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was traveling East towards Fisherman's Village in the Peace River. V1 then entered Fisherman's Village channel. V1 made contact with Red channel marker 6 on bow and starboard side of vessel which deflected them to the North East. The operator was was ejected from V1 into the water. The occupant remained onboard.  Operator from V1 then anchored his vessel. ; PAX1:-Arrived at hospital conscious and alert -Superficial injures to top of head, laceration and contusion. -Right forearm contusion -Left knee contusion, and small laceration -Possible internal bleeding, unconfirmed; OP1:-Laceration on eye, required stitches -Hand had laceration -Ribs were hurting possibly broken


BARDID: FL-2023-0409
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-06-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:45:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: ATLANTIC OCEAN
NearestCityTown: FERNANDINA BEACH
County: NASSAU
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent3: Sinking
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel was proceeding into the St Mary's Entrance channel when it struck the south jetty rocks and began sinking.


BARDID: FL-2023-0410
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-06-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: AMELIA RIVER/ICW
NearestCityTown: FERNANDINA HARBOR
County: NASSAU
WaterConditions: Rough
HazardousWaters: Y
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Sinking
RedactedNarrative:
VESSEL 1 WAS OPERATING IN ROUGH WATERS AND WHILE UNDERWAY TOOK WATER OVER THE STERN CAUSING IT TO SINK.


BARDID: FL-2023-0411
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-06-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:17:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: GULF OF MEXICO
NearestCityTown: DUNEDIN
County: PINELLAS
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
VESSEL 1 WAS DRIVING AROUND NEAR SHORE WHEN IT STRUCK VESSEL 2 ON ITS STARBOARD SIDE WHO WAS AT ANCHOR.


BARDID: FL-2023-0412
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:30:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: PASS A GRILLE CHANNEL
NearestCityTown: TIERRA VERDE
County: PINELLAS
WaterConditions: Choppy
HazardousWaters: Y
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
MachineryFailure: Engine
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Collision with fixed object
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1's engine failed in the Pass A Grille Channel and the operator was unable to get it started.  Vessel 1 drifted into the dock and cause minor damage to the dock and then began to take on water.


BARDID: FL-2023-0413
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-03-31 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:28:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: INTRACOSTAL
NearestCityTown: BOYNTON BEACH
County: PALM BEACH
WaterConditions: Calm
HazardousWaters: Y
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
RedactedNarrative:
VESSEL HIT LARGE WAKE AND GOT PUSHED UP ONTO SHORELINE ROCKS CAUSING VESSEL TO TIP OVER AND CAPSIZE, EJECTING ALL 3 OCCUPANTS. TRANSPORTED TO DELRAY MEDICAL FOR TREATMENT.


BARDID: FL-2023-0414
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-06-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:15:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: INTRACOASTAL WATERWAY
NearestCityTown: WEST PALM BEACH
County: PALM BEACH
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
RedactedNarrative:
VESSEL 2 WAS TRAVELING SOUTHBOUND IN THE ICW APPROACHING MARKER 5 AT ABOUT 26MPH.  VESSEL 1 PASSED VESSEL 2 ALSO TRAVELING SOUTH ON THE PORT SIDE AND COULD ONLY BE DESCRIBED AS A LARGE VESSEL WITH TWIN 300 OUTBOARD ENGINES.  DRIVER 2 REDUCED POWER DUE TO THE WAKE.  THIS CAUSED THE WAKE TO COME OVER THE STERN OF VESSEL 2 SWAMPING VESSEL 2.  VESSEL 2 THEN CAPSIZED TO THE PORTSIDE.


BARDID: FL-2023-0415
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-01-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:30:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW
NearestCityTown: POMPANO BEACH
County: BROWARD
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
RedactedNarrative:
What: Vessel crashing into fixed dock
When: Thursday, January 12, 2023, between 1400 and 1500 hours
	On Thursday, January 12, 2023, Broward County Sheriff’s Office (BSO) responded to a call of a vessel striking a dock. BSO arrived on scene at approximately 2045 hours. The owner of the dock, reported to BSO that a vessel had struck her dock and fled the scene while she was away. The call was transferred to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) dispatch. PROPERTY OWNER emailed pictures of the vessel and occupants and a video of the vessel striking her dock for reference. A neighbor witnessed the vessel crash and documented the photographs, but refused to speak with FWC during my investigation.
	On Friday, January 13, 2023, FWC responded to the call to investigate the hit and run boating incident. I arrived at approximately 1030 hours. I spoked with PROPERTY OWNER regarding the information collected from her neighbors. Her neighbor stated that a blue vessel with two occupants crashed into PROPERTY OWNER’s dock at a slow speed, causing the dock to collapse into the water. This information matched the pictures and video of the blue vessel and occupants provided to law enforcement. The neighbor stated that the occupants then stopped at his apartment near PROPERTY OWNER’s dock to leave behind their contact information for the homeowner. PROPERTY OWNER provided the contact information for the two occupants. I documented the damage to PROPERTY OWNER’s dock. I was unable to get an answer from them with the phone number provided. 
	The vessel in the pictures, displaying the registration number, was registered to both, matching the information provided by PROPERTY OWNER’s neighbor. 
	On Friday, January 13, 2023 at approximately 1120 hours, I headed to verify that the vessel was at this location. Once I confirmed the vessel was located at this address, I initiated contact with the vessel owners at approximately 1145 hours. They were both at this residence. They both stated that they struck the dock located behind PROPERTY OWNER’s residence. OP1 stated that he was operating the vessel, matching the pictures and video. OP1 stated that while they were underway, PAX 1 was towards the stern of the vessel making a drink. OP1 stated that he turned away from the helm, knelt on the seat facing backwards, and began to scoop ice for PAX 1. While his face was down and back turned away from the helm, the vessel crashed into the dock. I collected written statements from OP1 and PAX 1 at approximately 1220 hours. I documented the damage to their vessel with pictures, and I collected their insurance information. Body worn camera was also used during the interaction with OP1 and PAX 1. I issued a citation to OP1 for violation of U.S. Coast Guard Navigation Rule 5 (Improper Lookout) under F.S. 327.33(3)(b).
F.S. 327.33(3)(b)
(3) Each person operating a vessel upon the waters of this state shall comply with the navigation rules. 
(b) A person who violates the navigation rules and the violation does not constitute reckless operation of a vessel commits a noncriminal violation as defined in s. 775.08, punishable as provided in s. 327.73.
33 CFR § 83.05 - Look-out (Rule 5)
Every vessel shall at all times maintain a proper look-out by sight and hearing as well as by all available means appropriate in the prevailing circumstances and conditions so as to make a full appraisal of the situation and of the risk of collision.


BARDID: FL-2023-0416
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-03-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 00:14:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Intracoastal Waterway
NearestCityTown: PORT ORANGE
County: VOLUSIA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On March 25, 2023 V1 was traveling Northbound on the Intracoastal Waterway in Port Orange, FL.

V1 was cut off by V2 just north of the Dunlawton Bridge in the posted slow speed minimum wake zone. V1 had 04 passengers onboard and took a large wake over the STBD bow of the vessel.  Due to the large wake, the V1 capsized and all 4 passengers onboard entered the water.

Coast Guard Auxilary vessel was in the area and quickly recovered all the people out of the water. 

There were no injuries.

Coast Guard Station Ponce Inlet small boat towed the capsized vessel back to the Dunlawton Boat ramp where the owner was able to get V1 back on the trailer.

V2 continuned Northbound and did not stop after V1 capsized.  V2 was not able to be located.


BARDID: FL-2023-0417
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-03-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:30:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Inlet
NearestCityTown: BOCA RATON
County: PALM BEACH
WaterConditions: Choppy
CongestedWaters: Y
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Congested waters
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was inbound in the Boca Inlet while passing under the Boca Inlet drawbridge. An outbound vessel was also passing under the bridge and side swiped vessel 1. Vessel 2 then left the scene. 
	I was dispatched to the report of a vessel incident that occurred under the Boca Inlet bridge. I contacted the reporting person who informed me that he was inbound under the bridge when an oncoming vessel that was also passing under the bridge side swiped him. This caused OP1's vessel to be pushed into the bridge fender system. The striking vessel continued out of the inlet and never stopped to exchange information or address the issue. 
	There were no registration numbers or name displayed on the vessel and the vessel remains unidentified as of the time of this report. No injuries were reported, and the damage does not appear to be extensive.


BARDID: FL-2023-0418
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-04-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:30:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Choctawhatchee Bay
NearestCityTown: DESTIN
County: OKALOOSA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 2 returned to Watersports with damage to the port side.  The operator would not disclose what caused the damage and purchased the vessel from the livery.  The total estimated damage was $10,500.00.  There were no reported injuries. 
I went to Watersports on April 2, 2023 to speak with the complainant, who was also the manager.  Manager was not available, however, I spoke to a dockhand who was working when the jet skis returned.  He stated that the group rented five jet skis.  He claimed that four of the jet skis arrived back on time but the fifth returned approximately 30 minutes later which was operated by OP2.  
He stated that the jet ski came back with damage to the port side and was decommissioned for the remainder of the day.  He explained that OP2 claimed one of the jet skis in her group bumped into another but no one in the group identified who the other operator was.  He also indicated that there was no conclusive damage to any of the other jet skis to support the claim.  He provided a sworn written statement.  Manager also provided a written statement via text message.
I observed a blue Yamaha jet ski bearing (Vessel 2) with damage to the port side of the hull.  The port side mirror was also cracked.  The latches to the front compartment and back seat were broken and not operational.  I also observed blue transfer paint on the port side.  He explained that there was preexisting damage to the aft port side of the hull.  It had been sealed with tape and did not interfere with the operation of the vessel.
He provided an estimate from Fiberglass Boat Repairs which totaled approximately $10,500.00 in damages.
I contacted OP2’s husband on April 3, 2023.  He stated that he did not want to speak about the incident without an attorney.  I acknowledged that was his right and we agreed to meet on April 7, 2023.  On the agreed date, I was unable to reach OP2’s husband via telephone.  
FWC Officer and I arrived at the address on file on April 8, 2023 to gather witness statements.  OP2’s husband was not home.  I asked OP2 what happened, and she stated that she did not know.  She stated that the group anchored the jet skis at crab island to get food from one of the vendors and when they got back, Vessel 2 was damaged.  She also explained that she bought the jet ski from Watersports on April 7, 2023 for $12,229.66.
Based on my investigation, it appears that vessel 2 was most likely involved in a collision with another vessel.  I was not able to determine the contributing factor of the crash due to the operator of vessel 2 not providing the necessary information.


BARDID: FL-2023-0419
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-04-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:00:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: intracoastal waterway
NearestCityTown: JACKSONVILLE BEACH
County: DUVAL
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was either docking or leaving the area and struck V2 in the port bow area causing damage to the aluminum siding of the deck area of the pontoon boat 
	On 4/25/23 at approximately 11:30am I met with RP at the location of the incident. Upon my arrival RP was on his vessel at the location where it was struck. I verified RP. I obtained his registration and insurance paperwork. The vessel, is a 2017 Regal pontoon boat that was in like new condition showing a clearly damaged area to the port bow area, indicative of damage made by another vessel attempting to leave or dock at the space ahead of the vessel. RP stated that sometime during the night on 4/22-4/23 a person at the marina struck his vessel and he found his vessel damaged on the morning of 4/23.
	There were no vessels close by and I inquired at the marina if the cameras that are positioned to view the area, caught the action. The marina manager stated that the cameras on their property are not functioning as a recording device, only as a viewing device. A further canvas of the area did not reveal any additional cameras that would have caught the activity.
	Due to no additional information available, patrol efforts were suspended.


BARDID: FL-2023-0420
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-04-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:34:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Bay/Sound
NearestCityTown: MIAMI BEACH
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
RedactedNarrative:
While docked V1 was struck by a large wake created by an unknown vessel 2. 
	I arrived at fuel dock at approximately 1400 hrs. and met with the reporting person. RP explained that he was on board the vessel, a white 79-foot Azimut while it was fueling, with a mechanic at the time when they were struck by a large wake originating from an unknown vessel that was travelling at a high rate of speed. RP explained that the force from the wake caused the 79-foot Azimut to crash into the sea wall which resulted in damage to most of the port side windows. 
	I spoke with the dockmaster at the fuel dock and asked if I could see security footage from the day of the incident. After reviewing footage, I was unable to identify the vessel that caused the large wake. RP stated that no one was able to see the vessel at the time of the incident as they were all below deck. He also stated that they had someone come out to get a quote for the damage, and that it was approximately $25,000. 
	The day of the incident the weather was clear with calm seas. The unknown vessel was travelling at a high rate of speed in a well posted slow speed zone, thus resulting in the damages to the Azimut.


BARDID: FL-2023-0421
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-02-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:03:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Peace River
NearestCityTown: BOWLING GREEN
County: HARDEE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Improper loading
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On Tuesday 21, 2023, at approximately 2:00 p.m. Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) responded to a single vessel incident with injuries on the Peace River, located in Hardee County. OP1 (operator) and PAX1 (passenger) embarked on a fishing expedition. They launched from the bridge at Lake Branch road and traveled south approximately 1.25 miles. Their canoe flipped over and both subjects fell in the water. OP1 was uninjured, and PAX1 was complaining of chest pains, and he couldn't feel his hands. OP1 swam to PAX1 and pulled him to the West shore line. He was unable to pull him out of the water. Being that PAX1 weighs approximately 300 pounds. OP1 walked north towards the state park and notified a park volunteer of the situation. 911 was notified and units responded.  Hardee Fire Rescue arrived on scene. 
ACCIDENT
Approximately 1 mile south of the Paynes Creek Historic State Park PAX1 was fishing and his lure got hung in a tree. PAX1 pulled so hard that his line broke and caused him to lose his balance. PAX1 weighing approximately 300 pounds shifted to one side and ultimately caused the vessel to capsize and both occupants to be ejected into the water. Both PAX1 and OP1 were not wearing a lifejacket nor was there any safety equipment onboard. 
POST-ACCIDENT
After being ejected from the vessel OP1 swam to shore but PAX1 was unable to swim after the accident. OP1 had to pull PAX1 to the shoreline. Due to the size difference between them he was unable to completely pull him from the water. OP1 walked north along the riverbank and he arrived back at the State Park. He asked a volunteer to call 911. 
CONCLUSION
Based on the evidence and information gathered to date is the result of the following.
-	Due to decreased water levels 
-	Over loaded vessel
-	No safety equipment or lifejackets being used
-           PAX1 was treated for his neck injury with metal plates and screws
-	PAX1 sustained injury to his L4 L5 spine
-	PAX1 was hospitalized for approximately 25 days
-           PAX1 is visiting physical therapy twice a week; PAX1:-	PAX1 was treated for his neck injury with metal plates and screws -	PAX1 sustained injury to his L4 L5 spine -	PAX1 was hospitalized for approximately 25 days


BARDID: FL-2023-0423
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-04-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:30:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Rosaile
NearestCityTown: LAKE WALES
County: POLK
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On April 1, 2023 in Lake Wales Florida on the shoreline approximately 75 yards from Lake Rosalie an airboat was operated by OP1 the vessel struck palm tree on the port side causing it to hit a second tree on the starboard side, then finally coming to rest with the bow against a third tree.  OP1 was ejected and airlifted to Lakeland Regional Hospital, no other occupants were onboard.; OP1 was airlifted to Lakeland Regional Hospital with head injuries, he did not remember the accident he did recall being on Lake Kissimmee earlier in the day. Hayes was moved to an observation room due to bleeding on the brain.


BARDID: FL-2023-0424
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-03-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:00:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Petty/Mason Creek
NearestCityTown: HOMOSASSA
County: CITRUS
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On Saturday, March 25, 2023, a single vessel boating incident occurred in the Homosassa River area of Citrus County; State of Florida.

At approximately 1600 hours, a single airboat allision occurred near Kokomo Island (where Mason Creek meets Petty Creek). The 16 foot Panther airboat, operated by vessel owner was traveling west on Mason Creek, turned north west around Kokomo Island, and headed north west towards Petty Creek. 

The vessel was traveling approximately 20 to 30 mph and had 4 passengers onboard. The winds were blowing approximately 10 mph SW with gusts recorded up to 22 mph. Operator was operating the airboat in shallow waters near the right hand side of the creek when he tried to bank towards the left around a mangrove point. 

The port side of the vessel was broadsided by wind, pushing the starboard bow into the mangrove trees along the shoreline. 

Subject1 was thrown forward over the bow and landed in a sitting position in the shallow waters. She refused medical services. She suffered several contusions along her backside. She refused medical treatment.;

Subject2 was thrown down on the bow grass rake, where her right ankle made contact with the deck causing swelling and bruising. She was taken to Oak Hill Hospital in Hernando County. An x-ray revealed she had an ankle fracture.

Subject3 suffered scrapes and contusions along his right arm and leg.

Subject4 suffered scrapes and bruising along his left ventral arm and left knee.


BARDID: FL-2023-0425
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-06-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:55:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Polma Sola Bay
NearestCityTown: BRADENTON
County: MANATEE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On June 8th, 2023, we responded to a hit in run vessel accident involving 2 jetskis. One injured party involved on struck vessel. Striking vessel left the scene of the accident. 
	On June 4th, 2023, at 6:55 PM, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) received a call from our dispatch about a vessel accident just southeast of the Polma Sola Causeway, involving two jet skis. Manatee County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) had called our dispatch about the accident and informed us one of the jet skis left the scene immediately after the accident. MSCO also advised our dispatch that there was a 12-year-old child that was injured on the struck jet ski and was being transported to the Manatee Memorial Hospital. 
	At this time, we began to drive to Manatee County. I called the MCSO Deputy that was originally on scene for more information. He informed us that the vessel the was struck is a rental jet ski and confirmed with me the child was being transported to Manatee Memorial Hospital. He was able to provide me with the phone number and name of the injured child’s mother, who was operating the struck jet ski. 
	I called the mother of the injured child for more information and to advise her that we would be conducting the investigation. She was able to give me a description of what the man who struck her and her daughter looked like. She said he was a Hispanic man with a white and blue soccer shirt on wearing a blue life jacket over the shirt. I let her know that we were on the way and would follow up more in detail about the accident. 
	I called the MCSO Deputy back and gave him the description of the jet ski operator that left the scene. I asked if he could send the information out to other deputies in the area and if they could check the boat ramps for a subject matching that description, or a damaged jet ski. The MCSO Deputy replied they would and would also let Holmes Beach PD know as well so they can check the boat ramps in their jurisdiction. I then called the rental company who had the struck jet ski  and advised them that I would need to see the jet ski and photograph it. Due to the sun setting we decided to photograph the damaged jet ski first to assess any damage done to it. 
	At approximately 8:00 PM we arrived at the Polma Sola Boat Ramp and met with MANAGER. He informed us of the location where the incident happened but that he didn’t see it happen and only knew what OP1 told him. We took photographs of the jet ski. The damage to the jet ski itself was very minor and only consisted of scratches, all of which were photographed and documented. MANAGER pulled the jet ski out of the water and onto a trailer so we could see everything, and we found no more damage. 
	At approximately 8:40 PM we arrived at the Manatee Memorial Hospital. We met with OP1. She explained what happened during the accident. She told us they had just turned heading north towards the Polma Sola Causeway. OP1 was operating the jet ski, her daughter was a passenger on the back. At this point in time, she observed a vessel coming in her direction from her left. She began to turn the jet ski right to move out of the way when the other jet ski struck her. When the other jet ski struck jet ski on the left rear (Port, Stern) of the vessel, riding up onto the back of VICTIM then slid off her back into the water. The striking vessel immediately left the scene. OP1 informed us that at that time her daughter had lost consciousness for up to one minute. OP1 drove the jet ski back to the beach informing manager what happened and left for the hospital. Subject was admitted and treated at the hospital for minor injuries


BARDID: FL-2023-0426
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-05-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:41:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: BISCANE BAY
NearestCityTown: MIAMI
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Person departed vessel
AccidentEvent2: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person struck by vessel
RedactedNarrative:
v1 stuck v2 catching the ankle strap/rope and pulled the victim underwater causing injury.
On 05/30/2023 at 06:59 PM, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) Division of Law Enforcement (DLE), were on uniformed state land patrol in Miami-Dade County. I was dispatched to a Boating accident with injuries. Upon arriving at the scene, I was met by two females OP2 and WITNESS. FWC OFFICER 2 had both OP2 and WITNESS provide sworn written statements regarding the accident. Both ladies were part of a paddle board charter. The group consisted of approximately 10-12 people in total. According to OP2, they were on their way back from the tour on the right side of the channel they were in, when she saw a boat approaching her from behind. OP2 stated she started paddling harder to get out of the boat's way and to avoid being struck by the boat. OP2 stated the vessel was moving at a high rate of speed and started screaming at the operator of the vessel to get his attention. Unable to get the operator's attention, OP2 had to jump off her paddle board barely missing being struck by the vessel. 
	The vessel drove directly over the paddle board and got the leash that was attached to the board, and OP2’s ankle in the vessel’s props causing OP2 to be pulled underwater for an unknown amount of time and distance. OP2 tried to come up for air while being dragged underwater thrashing her hands in the water to alert the operator of the vessel. OP2 stated that she could feel her life jacket starting to come off underwater due to so much water being forced through it. The operator eventually realized that something was caught in his props and stopped the vessel. The operator helped OP2 into the vessel. WITNESS paddled to the vessel to check on OP2 asking her if she was okay to which OP2 stated "no". The Operator of the vessel brought both females back to the paddleboard launch. OP2 stated that the operator of the vessel called someone on his cell phone and told them he was going to be late for their fishing trip and that the accident wasn't that bad. OP2 realized she was bleeding from an injury sustained from the accident and asked for a first aid kit that the vessel’s operator could not produce. After being dropped off at the paddleboard launch the operator of the vessel stated that he was late for a fishing trip and had to leave. He left the two paddle boarders with his name, phone number, and a picture of his driver’s license before speeding back off down the channel. ;:OP2 recieved cuts on her right leg from the strap rubbing her leg while being dragged. Later that night that same injured area turned into a large bruise which was documented and included in this report. OP2 on her on time later recieved medial treatment from HCA Aventura Medical Hospital for her soreness and pain she was in. OP2 was later discharged from HCA and treated for her injuries.


BARDID: FL-2023-0427
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-05-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:50:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: CALOOSAHATCHEE
NearestCityTown: ALVA
County: LEE
WaterConditions: Calm
CongestedWaters: Y
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Congested waters
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
AccidentCause3: Improper anchoring
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
RedactedNarrative:
On 05/21/2023, a boating accident occurred on the Caloosahatchee River. The accident involved three vessels. The cause of the accident was due to two passing vessels which created large wakes and one vessel that was improperly anchored for the conditions. One vessel suffered damage to the hull as it was moved due to the large wakes and impacted a tree branch on the river bank . No one was injured during the course of this accident. 
At approximately 0950 hours, V3 and V2 were under power closely behind one another traveling east. V3 and V2 passed V1’s location at a speed of approximately 26-34 knots (30-40 MPH). Due to the size of V3 and V2 and their displacement of water, this created a wake of 4-5 feet that moved towards V1's location. The wakes caused V1 to pitch from bow to stern pulling V1's power poles out of the riverbank. This caused V1 to move to the north towards the bank where large oak trees were located. The wakes also caused V1 to yaw to the port side and the portside bow section of V1's hull contacted a tree branch. V1 subsequently suffered a 3" circular puncture to the hull that was caused by an oak tree branch. While speaking with the operator, he also stated that the motors and stern were resting partway up the bank at the end of the accident which indicated that V1 moved approximately 15-20 feet to the north due to V3 and V2's wakes.


BARDID: FL-2023-0428
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-06-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:17:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Edan
NearestCityTown: BOYNTON BEACH
County: PALM BEACH
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel lost power from its motor and sank due to water intrusion from PWC spray and vessel wake.
	On Sunday, June 11, 2023, I responded for a vessel that sank due to water intrusion. A 14’ aluminum Starcraft (V1) was occupied by 3 juveniles (listed) when it lost power and began to drift toward the sea wall. The vessel was being “sprayed” by two PWC’s operated by OP3 and OP2. The occupants of the Starcraft and the PWC’s knew each other. 

	As the Starcraft drifted into the sea wall it began to take on additional water from wake caused by other vessels resulting in the vessel sinking. All parties corroborated that the two PWC’s left the area before the Starcraft fully sank. 

	The two PWC's were borrowed from an unknown person by the two juvenile operators. There is no information on the PWC's or the owner.

	Since all occupants of the vessels where juveniles phone numbers of the parents were exchanged. No injuries were reported and the Starcraft was recovered from the water.


BARDID: FL-2023-0429
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-05-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:00:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW
NearestCityTown: ST. AUGUSTINE
County: SAINT JOHNS
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On 5/4/2023, at approximately 1100 hrs. a multiple vessel incident occured on the San Sebastian River, in the City of St. Augustine, St. Johns County, Florida. V1 a 1982 38' Marine Trader, powered by a single 160 hp inboard. V1 was occupied by three adults, one female two males. V1 approached a curve in the river next to a marina that had vessels docked to their face dock. V1 was not able to maintain its course against the current and collied with two vessels on the dock. This caused damage to all vessels and the female  was injured when a large pipe fell on her head causing a laceration. She was transported by St John's County Fire Rescue to Flagler Hospital.   

Officer conducted an interview and collected a statement. Subject1 originally said he had steering issues and when he got too close to the dock the wind blew him sideways and into the anchor of the other boat. He later advised he believed he was not using enough throttle to navigate through the current. This caused the vessel to collide with the two vessels at Old English Marina. Occupant located at the stern of the vessel was injured when a large pipe from her vessel fell on her head causing a laceration. She was transported by St John's County Fire Rescue to Flagler Hospital. 

	The conclusion is that Subject1 was heading south and did not use enough throttle to navigate his vessel through the stronger current in San Sebastian Inlet. Which caused his vessel to veer to the west and strike two separate vessels. When he struck the first vessel his davit line got caught on vessel 2’s bow pulpit and caused the metal rod to fall on head causing the injuries. The vessel then hit vessel 3’s stern before stopping.

laceration to top of her head and needed 20 staples neck hurts cat skan results******


BARDID: FL-2023-0430
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-06-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:57:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Indian River Lagoon
NearestCityTown: SEBASTIAN
County: INDIAN RIVER
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Operator behavior
AccidentEvent1: Person departed vessel
CoordinatesConfidence: C
RedactedNarrative:
On June 11, 2023, at approximately 1730 hours, a single vessel incident occurred on the Indian River Lagoon, located in Indian River County, City of Sebastian, Florida.  

The vessel was identified as an unregistered, Coleman four person inflatable.  The vessel was operated by human power (paddle), and occupied by two adult operators and one adult occupant.  

The midship positioned operator voluntarily "jumped" from the unanchored vessel and began swimming.  A short time later, he was observed approximately 50-feet forward of the vessel, and heard yelling for help.  He was recovered unconscious, floating face down in the water.  He was transported by ground to Indian River Cleveland Clinic for treatment.  On June 12, 2023, he was pronounced deceased by Indian River Cleveland Clinic.   


BARDID: FL-2023-0431
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:16:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: HILLSBOROUGH RIVER
NearestCityTown: TAMPA
County: HILLSBOROUGH
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
RedactedNarrative:
On July 15th 2023 at approximately 1830 hours vessel #1 (V1) was going South on the Hillsborough River. Another vessel (V2)  heading north on the Hillsborough River and approachinng V1.  V1 was trying to avoid V2 and quickly changed direction. V1 hit the wake of the V2 and  was unable to regain control and ran the vessel aground. V2 continued on course. 

On July 15th 2023 at approximately 1830 hours vessel #1 (V1) was going South on the Hillsborough River. There were two occupants on board V1. The operator of V1 and the vessel owner/ passenger. OP1 stated she was rounding the "curb" of the Hillsborough River at approximately 20 miles per hour. When I asked for clarification of the "curb" , PAX 1 who is more familiar with the area, stated it was a blind curve and there were docks on the left hand side and at that section of the river it is approximately 75- 100 feet wide.  When rounding the "curb"  another vessel (V2) was heading North,  towards V1. OP1 stated that in order to  avoid V2, she quickly changed direction and the wake of the V2 pushed V1 towards the bank and she was unable to regain control before running the vessel aground. The only identifying information on (V2) was that is was white and approximately 25 feet in length and had an open motor. OP1/PAX 1 were unsure how many people were aboard V2 and were unable to give any descriptions.

Nothing in the detailed other than the below. Photos appear to show damage to the fiberglass around the keel, bow, and bottom of the hull, and also some fiberglass damage inside.

PAX 1 met us outside to look over the vessel. The vessel is a 2016 19 foot  Yamaha center counsel, gray and white in color. PAX 1 pointed out to me the different areas of damage on the vessel. I took photographs with my state-issued cell phone. 

I asked PAX 1 approximately how much damage was done to the boat.PAX 1 said as a rough estimate he would guess around $10,000.


BARDID: FL-2023-0432
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:55:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: HILLSBOROUGH RIVER
NearestCityTown: TAMPA
County: HILLSBOROUGH
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person departed vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person struck by vessel
RedactedNarrative:
7/4/2023 at approximately 20:55 hours. Location – Tampa, FL on the Hillsborough River.  

An unidentified jet ski, travelling north on the Hillsborough River struck a kayak and a paddle board. 

The paddle board and kayak were stopped. The jet ski headed straight for them at approximately 40-45mph. The kayaker jumped into the water. The jet ski collided with the kayak first, pushing it against the paddle boarder. The jet ski ramped off of the kayak and completely ran over both the kayak and paddle board. The paddle boarder was hit in the leg by the jet ski and suffered a laceration near her knee. The paddle boarder was also knocked into the water by the impact. According to witnesses, the jet ski did not slow down or stop, it continued heading north on the river. 

The paddle boarder was taken to the hospital, where she received stitches for her laceration.   

There was no damage to the kayak or paddle board.

This occured around dusk and the weather was clear with no wind or waves. ; Subject suffered a laceration just below her left knee. She recieved four stitches.


BARDID: FL-2023-0433
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-06-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:00:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Bay
NearestCityTown: KEY BISCAYNE
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Shift
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On June 29th, 2023, at approximately 2000 Hrs. Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission was dispatched to boating accident (S4B) at Crandon Marina located in Miami-Dade County. 
Upon arrival I met with a security guard at Crandon Marina which witnesses the accident, his sworn statement was attached to ISR.
OP1 identified by driver's license was the operator of the striking vessel (V1), the striking vessel (V1) was identified by documentation number.
OP1 was coming into Crandon Marina, as he was trying to dock his vessel, he suffered machinal issues and was not able to put his vessel back into neutral causing his vessel to stay in forward gear. OP1 then turned off his engines to avoid hitting the sea wall, as he was trying to turn the vessel around to dock in his slip, he struck three docked vessels causing minimal damage to (V3) and (V4).
I spoke with the manager of Crandon Marina; she informed me that she spoke with the owners of (V3) and (V4), they didn’t notice any damage to their vessels, so they didn’t want to further proceed.
(V2) was identified by documentation number, (V3) was identified by Florida registration, and (V4) was identified by Florida registration.
The owner of (V2) was identified Driver’s license. (V2) took some damage to the starboard side guard railing (See photos in ISR). Estimated damage cost $3,000.


BARDID: FL-2023-0434
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-06-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:02:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Marina
NearestCityTown: WEST PALM BEACH
County: PALM BEACH
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Steering
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 (V1), a 74-foot sportfish, was headed northbound in the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW) in the area of Riviera Beach, Palm Beach County. V1 made a westbound turn into the Riviera Beach Marina. V1 continued westbound into the marina for approximately 50 yards then made a turn to the north to back into his slip at the marina. V1 attempted to dock serval times without success. The deckhand for V1 was able to get a bow line tied to a cleat at V1s slip. This caused V1 to rotate back towards the east causing the bow of V1 to strike the bow of Vessel 2 (V2), a 55-foot sailing vessel which was docked in its slip facing north. This caused the captain of V1 to panic and put the engines hard into reverse. V1 is now travelling west bound in reverse causing V1 to back into Vessel 3 (V3), a 68-foot cabin yacht docked facing south. The collision between V1 and V3 put a 1-foot hole in V3s portside stern and multiple gouges and cracks in the fiberglass in the area. V1 sustained damage to its entire swim platform off of its transom. The captain of V1 put the engines back in forward but was unable to maintain steerage with a strong south wind. The wind pushed V1 into Vessel 4 (V4) and Vessel 5 (V5). V4 is a 52-foot sailing vessel which was docked facing south. V4 sustained damage to its bow pulpit, it was bent to the vessels port side, caused by contact with V1s port side bow. V5 is a 44-foot sailing vessel which was docked facing north. V5 sustained damage to its swim platform off of its stern caused from contact from V1s port side. One female aboard V1 sustained minor injuries, Cervical Strain and Tension Headache, from the impact of V1 into V3. All other parties were uninjured.; Victim 1:Later that day one of the passengers, called FWC dispatch and advised his sister was experiencing neck pain and he was taking her to be seen by a doctor. She was diagnosed with a Cervical Strain and Tension Headache.


BARDID: FL-2023-0435
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-08-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 08:30:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: caloosahatchee river
NearestCityTown: NORTH FORT MYERS
County: LEE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Overloading
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
RedactedNarrative:
On August 9th, 2023, at approximately 0830, a 14-foot, white jon boat capsized just South of the 41 Bridge in North Fort Myers. There were two subjects and a dog on board with no injuries reported. Fort Myers Fire Rescue were able to retrieve all subjects from the water and assist them to shore.


BARDID: FL-2023-0436
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-08-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:43:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: SANTA ROSA SOUND
NearestCityTown: FT. WALTON BEACH
County: OKALOOSA
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
AccidentCause2: Weather
MachineryFailure: Engine
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was attempting to dock when it lost power, and due to high winds drifted into V2 and V3 that was beached causing damage to the starboard mid section of V2 and  small scratch and chip out of the port bow side of V3.


BARDID: FL-2023-0443
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-09-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:50:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: BOCA CIEGA BAY
NearestCityTown: ST PETE BEACH
County: PINELLAS
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Storm
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
VESSEL #1 STRUCK A WOODEN PILING POLE AND THEN THE PORT SIDE OF A SAILBOAT THAT WAS DOCKED. Captain was extremely intoxicated and unable to speak about the crash. Captain was transported by ambulance to hospital due to extreme intoxication level. Once released, charged with BUI and failure to submit to test and leaving the scene of a boating crash. 


BARDID: FL-2023-0444
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-09-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:17:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: NASSAU SOUND
NearestCityTown: YULEE
County: NASSAU
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
RedactedNarrative:
OPERATOR SLOWED TO MAKE A STARBOARD TURN, VESSEL DECREASED IN SPEED ALLOWING WATER TO ENTER STEARN CAUSING IT TO FLOOD, RESULTING IN BOAT CAPSIZING.


BARDID: FL-2023-0445
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-04-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 08:14:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: BISCAYNE BAY
NearestCityTown: CORAL GABLES
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
VESSEL #2 WAS DOCKED AT THE MARINA RAMPS, WHEN VESSEL #1 OPERATOR PLACED THE VESSEL IN REVERSE BUT DUE TO IMPROPERLY INSTALLED PROPS, HIS VESSEL LAUNCHED FORWARD STRIKING VESSEL #2 IN THE REAR.

OWNER OF VESSEL #1, RE INSPECTED HIS ENGINES AND NOTICED THE PROPS WERE INSTALLED IMPROPERLY.


BARDID: FL-2023-0446
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-06-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:00:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE OSBORNE
NearestCityTown: LAKE WORTH
County: PALM BEACH
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
RedactedNarrative:
I RESPONDED TO JOHN PRINCE PARK BOAT RAMPS TO CONDUCT A PWC CRASH INVESTIGATION.  BASED ON MY INVESTIGATION I FOUND THAT V1 WAS CRUISING AT APPROXIMATELY 45MPH ON A PARALLEL COURSE, JUST AHEAD OF V2 WHEN IT TURNED SHARPLY TO PORT SIDE, PLACING IT IN THE DIRECT PATCH OF V2. V2 STRUCK AND RAMPED OVER V1.
BOTH OPERATORS WERE NO LONGER ON SCENE.  THE OPERATOR 1 HAD LEFT THE SCENE AND WAS NOT LOCATED.  THE OPERATOR 2 HAD BEEN TRANSPORTED TO ST MARY'S HOSPITAL FOR RIGHT FOOT PAIN AND NUMBNESS.  AN INDEPENDENT WITNESS ON SCENE COMPLETED A SWORN WRITTEN STATEMENT.  OPERATOR 2 WAS INTERVIED LATER AT ST MARY'S HOSPITAL.
V1 HAD SIGNIFICANT DAMAGE TO THE STEERING COLUMN INDICATING THAT V2 RAMPED OVER V1.  V2 WAS NEVER LOCATED OR IDENTIFIED.  THE INVESTIGATION ALSO REVEALED THAT THE SKIS WERE RENTALS BEING ILLEGALLY RENTED FROM THE PARK. FWC CONTINUED TO INVESTIGATE THE SKI RENTAL VIOLATIONS.  THIS CONCLUDES MY INVESTIGATION.; Op2:right foot loss of feeling, transported to st. marys trauma unit for mri and further evaluation


BARDID: FL-2023-0447
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:10:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: JACKSON RIVER
NearestCityTown: APALACHICOLA
County: FRANKLIN
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On Monday July 24, 2023 at approximately 6:10 PM vessel 1 was traveling down the Jackson River, toward Apalachicola.  Vessel 1 ran into the north bank striking a stump and ejecting both the driver and occupant into the water.  

Vessel 1 continued to do circles in the river and finally ran aground on the southern bank of the Jackson River.  Both the occupant and driver sustained injuries and were transported to Bay Medical in Panama City.  

This is a preliminary investigative report and is not complete.  For a more detailed report refer to ISR-072304.  

Occupant was complaining of pain in leg and abdomen.  treated at hospital and released
Operator:PATIENT WAS IN ICU FOR TWO DAYS FOLLOWED BY 3 DAYS IN THE HOSPITAL


BARDID: FL-2023-0448
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-09-19 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:30:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: JOHNS PASS CHANNEL
NearestCityTown: MADEIRA BEACH
County: PINELLAS
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Restricted vision
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
RedactedNarrative:
VESSEL 1 WAS TRAVELING SOUTH IN THE ICW IN MADEIRA BEACH.  AS THE VESSEL WAS TRAVELING AND BEGAN NEGOTIATING A WEST BOUND TURN TOWARDS JOHNS PASS, PASSENGERS INSIDE THE VESSEL STOOD UP AND WALKED TOWARDS THE FRONT OF THE VESSELS BOW, TEMPORARILY OBSTRUCTING THE OPERATORS VIEW.  AT THIS TIME THE VESSEL STRUCK CHANNEL MARKER 11.  THE VESSEL OBTAINED APPROXMATELY 6000 DOLLARS WORTH OF DAMAGE ON THE FRONT STARBOARD SIDE BOW.  THE CHANNEL MARKER WAS LOST AND NOT RECOVERED.  THERE WERE NO INJURIES TO ANY PASSENGERS ON BOARD.


BARDID: FL-2023-0449
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-08-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:11:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: BUNCES PASS
NearestCityTown: TIERRA VERDE
County: PINELLAS
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Ignition of spilled fuel or vapor
AccidentCause2: Failure to vent
AccidentCause3: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Ventilation
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
RedactedNarrative:
V1 Was docked on the far west dock/ramp of Ft De Soto Bost Ramps.  The owner just fueled up prior to putting the vessel in the water.  The owner advised to me that she did use the blower although she said she only used it for a few seconds.  The owner explained that she started the engine and when she put it in gear she heard/felt a loud explosion and the vessel started to catch on fire.  The owner was able to get out of the vessel and was not injured.

The dock was damaged by this fire.


BARDID: FL-2023-0450
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-08-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:34:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: GULF
NearestCityTown: UNINCORPORATED
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Sharp turn
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
RedactedNarrative:
On August 25, 2023, at approximately 1930 hours, the operator of vessel 1, later identified as OP1, was on a sandbar in Sunshine Key when he was ejected from the vessel and struck with the propeller. FWC and MCSO arrived on scene at approximately 2000 hours. OP1 was flown to Jackson South due to his injuries. OP1 sustained lacerations to his left arm, wrist, and shoulder, and an open fracture above his left knee. In OP1’s sworn written statement, he stated that he was on the sandbar near Sunshine Key, and he turned the vessel too quickly while operating and fell into the water, where he was struck by the propeller.
	The occupants of V1 were on the vessel heading back to Sunshine Key. When OP1 made the sharp left turn, OP1, OP1 and PAX 1 were ejected from the vessel. The vessel turned around and struck OP1 before the remaining occupants of the vessel were able to turn the vessel off. FWC documented the accident.; OP1:OPEN FRACTURE ON KNEE  LACERATION OF LEFT HAND  LACERATION OF LEFT SHOULDER


BARDID: FL-2023-0451
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-08-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:08:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: BAY/SOUND
NearestCityTown: DESTIN
County: OKALOOSA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Starting in gear
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent2: Collision with fixed object
RedactedNarrative:
On August 25, 2023, at approximately 1300 hrs, I responded in reference to a boating accident involving a run a way jet ski that jumped the dock and ended up in a fishing storage shed. V1, 09-foot 2021 Bombardier Canada Jet Ski, gray and green in color. The Operator was getting on V1 while it was running and while sitting on V1 she went to put her life jacket on, which was connected to the kill cord lanyard. The lanyard got wrapped around the throttle and the operator pulled the cord tight when she was putting on the life jacket and V1 accelerated. Causing the operator to be ejected from V1. V1 accelerated straight towards the storage shed across the marina. V1 hit the dock at a high-speed causing it to jump the dock and travel 20 feet on dry land to collide with a fishing storage shed. The dock received no damage. The jet ski had no damages past scratches. There was damages to the shed and fishing equipment located inside and also the electrical panel that was connected to the shed. I estimate the damages to be 6,000 dollars.


BARDID: FL-2023-0452
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-09-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:00:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: DESTIN HARBOR
NearestCityTown: DESTIN
County: OKALOOSA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was backing into is dock slip when it struck docked V2 causing a dent and scratch to V2 port side.

On September 5, 2023, I responded to a delayed boating crash at the Waterview Towers Yacht Club, Destin Harbor. I met with the captain of vessel 2 (V2) described as a 65’ Viking Yacht with USCG DO # 1136230. 

V2 subject told me that the vessel next to him struck V2 causing a scratch and dent to V2. V2 was unoccupied at the time of the crash. V2 subject said that the owner/operator of vessel 1 (V1) identified as a 40’ Searay with USCG DO# 1227423 had caused the damage on Saturday, September 2, 2023. 

Operator1 contacted V2 subject and told him about the accident. I observed a scratch and dent on the port side of V2. When I looked on V1 I observed fiberglass and white paint on the starboard stern screw along the rub rail consistent with the damage to V1. V2 subject told me that the estimated damage was $30,000. 

On September 7, 2023, Operator1 returned my phone call and told me that he was operating V1 and was attempting to back it into his slip when he struck V2. Operator1 told me that the wind and current got ahold of the vessel causing him to strike V2. Operator1 told me that he had already notified his insurance company about the accident. 

Based on the information provided and the damage I observed, V1 starboard stern did strike V2 port side causing the damage


BARDID: FL-2023-0453
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-08-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:19:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: St johns River
NearestCityTown: GENEVA
County: SEMINOLE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent3: Grounding
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 01 (V01) was traveling north on the St. Johns River approaching Mullet Lake Boat Ramp. Vessel 02 (V02) was traveling south on the St. Johns River away from Mullet Lake Boat Ramp. 


V01 and V02 were both power vessels meeting head-on while negotiating a bend in the river. V01 operator violated the following inland navigation rules:

Rule 5 - Failed to maintain a proper look-out.
Rule 6 - Did not proceed at safe speed.
Rule 8 - Failed to take action to avoid collision. 
Rule 14 - Head-on situation.

V02 Operator attempted to turn V02 even further starboard but had no room to maneuver due to the proximity of the river’s bank. V01 operator steered port (left) instead of starboard and further put V01 in the path of V02. 

As a result, the starboard side of V01 struck the rear port side and the motor of V02. The impact caused one passenger from V02 and one passenger from V01 to be thrown into the water. V01 then ran aground on bank of the river. 

The thrown passengers were able to self-rescue. V01 became disabled.

After stopping to render aid and contact emergency services V02 continued to Mullet Lake Boat Ramp where it remained until this Investigator's arrival.

Victim1:Stated they would self transport to be checked at a medical facility for complaint soreness.

Operator2:Stated they would self transport to be checked at a medical facility for complaint soreness.


BARDID: FL-2023-0455
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-09-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:35:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Peace River
NearestCityTown: PUNTA GORDA
County: CHARLOTTE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Weather
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was traveling west inside of Laishley Marina. V1 was attempting to dock behind V2 who was already docked and tied off. V1’s bow was facing directly west as the strong wind was blowing him towards the dock. V1 tried to put the vessel into reverse but had too much forward momentum causing V1’s bow to collide with V2’s port side stern.


BARDID: FL-2023-0456
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:30:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Gulf of Mexico
NearestCityTown: CRYSTAL RIVER
County: CITRUS
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
RedactedNarrative:
On Saturday July 22, 2023, a vessel with 3 occupants was drift fishing near the intake canal of the Crystal River power plant. At approximately 1430 hours, waves began crashing over the transom of the vessel and the bildge system could not keep up. Consiquently, the vessel took on water and capsized. The occupants received no injuries and estimated the total damage to be $5,000.00


BARDID: FL-2023-0457
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:30:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: INDIAN RIVER
NearestCityTown: TITUSVILLE
County: BREVARD
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Person departed vessel
AccidentEvent2: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On July 2, 2023, a hit and run boat crash took place on the Indian River at Horseshoe Crab Island.
Prior to the crash, two personal watercraft were riding at high speed and recklessly near the swimmers at the Island's shoreline.  During this time, some on the beachgoers yelled at the watercraft including OP2.  One watercraft drove over to OP2 who was standing on the island near his beached vessel and exchanged words.  The unknown operator of the vessel then left and returned minutes with several other watercraft, and began threatening and taunting OP2.  OP2 got off his vessel and retreated onto the island.  At this time, the primary aggressor of the group attempted to spray water with his watercraft and while swinging his vessel around, he struck OP2's beached vessel.  The striking (hit and run) vessel along with the other vessels left the scene and were last seen heading towards Parrish Park Boat Ramp.


BARDID: FL-2023-0458
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-09-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:30:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Atlantic Ocean
NearestCityTown: NEW SMYRNA BEACH
County: VOLUSIA
WaterConditions: Very rough
HazardousWaters: Y
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
RedactedNarrative:
On 09/02/23, V1 was operating due east of Ponce Inlet, about .5 miles offshore in Volusia County, FL.  

V1 was occupied by 1 person.  V1 was jumping waves in the surf.  V1 landed wrong after a jump and the operator was ejected from the PWC and into the water.

V1 capsized and drifted south.

The operator of V1 was picked up by another PWC and transported back to shore.

No injuries to the operator of V1


BARDID: FL-2023-0459
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-09-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:53:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Nassau sound
NearestCityTown: UNINCORPORATED
County: DUVAL
WaterConditions: Choppy
HazardousWaters: Y
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
AccidentCause2: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Throttle
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent3: Person departed vessel
RedactedNarrative:
During fowl weather, the vessel was traveling south across the Nassau Sound when the hull made contact with a sandbar. The vessel's gears began to malfunction and it started taking waves over the bow. The two occupants, the operator and one other passenger exited the vessel and began to swim toward shore at Amelia Island State Park.


BARDID: FL-2023-0460
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-08-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:52:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Atlantic Ocean
NearestCityTown: MIAMI BEACH
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was heading southbound behind a banana boat rental vessel. V1 caught a wake from the banana boat causing both occupants of V1 to fall off. 

V1 was heading southbound approximately 20 mph and 1/2 mile east of the shoreline. V1 caught the wake of a banana boat rental vessel that was in front of them causing both occupants of V1 to fall off. Both occupants were able to get back on the personal watercraft and made it back to shore safely. One occupant stated she had pain in her rib area. Ocean rescue responded once V1 arrived back to shore. Fire rescue arrived soon after and transported the injured occupant to Mount Sinai hospital.;Individual stated she had pain in her rib area.


BARDID: FL-2023-0461
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:51:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: South Atlantic
NearestCityTown: LAYTON
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Choppy
HazardousWaters: Y
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
RedactedNarrative:
ON 7/25/23, U.S COAST GUARD RESPONDED TO A CAPSIZED VESSEL APPROXIMATELY 10-12 MILES OFFSHORE OF LONG KEY.  
While investigating the incident, I contacted the United States Coast Guard (USCG) Sector Key West and Station Islamorada, the responding station to the incident. I was also in contact with a Towboat US Captain, who operates out of Islamorada.
According to a phone interview with SEATOW, he received a call at approximately 0700, on July 25, 2023,  that the vessel was aground ocean side of Snake Creek. When he arrived, there were two adult Hispanic Males on board. SEATOW was able to free the vessel, and the two males paid for the service and headed offshore. At approximately 1658 hours, SEATOW responded to a call near Tennessee Reef involving a capsized vessel. When he arrived, it was the same vessel capsized with the two Hispanic male on board. He explained that the individuals were recovered by a USCG small boat from Station Islamorada and then USCG departed the scene. 
According to USCG Sector Key West and Station Islamorada, they received a call of a capsized vessel approximately eleven to twelve miles offshore of Long Key at approximately 1700 hours. The small boat arrived at the scene and pulled two Hispanic males from the vessel and brought them back to Station Islamorada. Neither individual was the registered owner of the vessel. According to USCG, the individuals did not have identification and were only identified by given names:
The matter was turned over to U.S Customs and Border Patrol, and the two individuals were released from the station.


BARDID: FL-2023-0462
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-08-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:00:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: gulf of mexico and atlantic St
NearestCityTown: BOCA CHICA
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Equipment failure
AccidentCause2: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
EquipmentFailure: Auxiliary
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
RedactedNarrative:
On August 27th, 2023, FWC responded to a boating accident in Lower Sugarloaf Sound, Monroe County, State of Florida in a marked patrol vessel. At Approximately 0920 hours, we observed the vessel capsize underneath the US1 bridge that crosses Lower Sugarloaf Channel. 
	As we approached the vessel (a light blue in color Release Backcountry branded vessel approximately 20 feet in length), we noticed two individuals around the vessel in the water trying to right the vessel. One occupant from the capsized vessel was on a friend’s vessel that was on scene.  There were two good Samaritan vessels on scene attempting to right the vessel. FWC assisted righting the vessel with our patrol vessel. 
	Through my investigation, I determined the operator of the overturned vessel was OP1. While under way bay side, OP1 realized that the live well pumps were not functioning properly. The live wells were full and began to overflow leading to the vessel filling with water. Mr. OP1 attempted to get the vessel on plane to drain water from the vessel. The vessel would not come on plane and the engine stalled and quit causing the vessel to become completely swamped. This occurred bay side in Lower sugarloaf sound. A family friend met them and began to tow the vessel back to his house where it was docked. While passing under the bridge on US1 (N24 37.966’ W081 35.200’) the vessel capsized.
	I find this to be true based on witness statements and photographed evidence. 
	Witness statements corroborated with OP1’s statements. All three individuals were uninjured. 
 	The vessel is registered to OP1’s father, OP1 who was not onboard the vessel at the time of the accident. 
	Sea Tow was able to tow the vessel back to shore. 
	All three occupants from the capsized vessel boarded the family friend’s vessel.
	During the incident and my encounters with the vessel occupants my Body Worn Camera was on and activated. 
	All events occurred in Monroe County, State of Florida. 
	End of report.


BARDID: FL-2023-0463
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-04-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:19:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Tavernier Creek
NearestCityTown: TAVERNIER
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On April 28th, 2023, I, Officer of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) was in uniform on land patrol in Tavernier, Monroe County, FL. I responded to a single vessel boating accident with unknown injuries at Tavernier Creek Marina at approximately 15:19. MCSO dispatch advised FWC dispatch that EMS/Monroe County Fire Rescue would be staging at Tavernier Creek Marina.

Upon further investigation it was determined that one jet ski went into the mangroves, due to the wake of another vessel passing from the opposite direction. Both individuals on the jet ski sustained injuries upon collision with the mangroves. They were towed to Tavernier Creek Marina and treated by Monroe County EMS/Fire Rescue. 

Both injured individuals were then transported to Mariners Hospital in Tavernier, FL. 

Occupant sustained a laceration above the right eye, as well as several abrasions to the face area. 

Operator sustained 3 fractures to the face, as well as several lacerations and abrasions to the face.


BARDID: FL-2023-0465
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-08-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:47:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Ocean/ICW
NearestCityTown: POMPANO BEACH
County: BROWARD
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On Saturday, 08/05/2023 at approximately 2147 hours I, Officer, with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), was on patrol in a marked patrol vehicle when our dispatch received a call about a vessel striking the jetty in Hillsboro Inlet. Four people were involved in the accident; all suffering varying injuries. All four occupants were transported to Broward Health North for treatment. There were no fatalities, and all occupants were in stable condition. I documented the accident scene and met with the victims at the hospital shortly after.

After completing the investigation and gathering as many facts as possible, I determined that Operator was operating the vessel at the time of the crash. Operator was impaired by alcohol and medication at the time with a B.A.C. almost double the legal limit. 

The vessel was traveling at a high rate of speed in dark, night time conditions into a narrow inlet that is known to be difficult to navigate at night. The operation of the vessel was conducted in a careless manner that endangered the lives of everyone on board and general navigation rules were ignored.  

Operator suffered several fractured ribs, a brain bleed, along with lacerations and bruises.

Occupant2 suffered a broken jaw, a partially severed bottom lip, broken teeth, and lacerations and bruises. 

Occupant4 suffered a spinal fracture along with a broken leg and several lacerations and bruises. ; 
Occupant3 suffered a sprained ankle along with lacerations and bruises.


BARDID: FL-2023-0466
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-08-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:04:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: choctawhatchee bay
NearestCityTown: FT. WALTON BEACH
County: OKALOOSA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
RedactedNarrative:
On 8-27-2023 at approximately 1400 hrs., a black 2023 Robalo open motorboat, was traveling south exiting Hurlbert Feild Marina.  The vessel was cruising at approximately 15mph, passing green channel marker 61, in the Santa Rosa Sound, Okaloosa County Florida, when the engine cowling blew off due to an explosion in the motor.  The vessel lost power and was towed back to the marina.  There were no injuries reported during this event. The total estimated damage to the vessel was $20,000.00.


BARDID: FL-2023-0467
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-09-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:26:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: lake George
NearestCityTown: UNINCORPORATED
County: VOLUSIA
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: Equipment failure
AccidentCause3: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Throttle
EquipmentFailure: Auxiliary
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Sinking
RedactedNarrative:
On September 2, 2023, at approximately 6:26pm, a vessel accident occurred on the Saint Johns River in Lake George just outside of Silver Glenn Springs near channel marker 1, Volusia County, Florida. The accident involved one fiber glass bass boat (V1). V1 is a red 1985 Drifter bass boat operated by one white female with a white female and white male child as occupants. V1 is powered with one 150 horsepower outboard engine.

V1was traveling East on the Silver Glen Run. 

V 1 exited slow speed minimum wake safety zone. 

V1 attempted to increase their speed to get on plane but was unable to.

V1 began to take waves over the bow.

V1 became swamped.

A fellow boater in an unknown vessel assisted the occupants of V1.

The unknown vessel transported the occupants to the Juniper Hunt Club but left the operator of V1.

At the Juniper Hunt Club Lake County Sheriff was made aware.

Lake County Sheriff retrieved the operator of V1 in their patrol vessel.

The operator of V1 was taken to the Juniper Hunt Club.

V1 was left swamped on the shore of Lake George.

FWC was notified and made contact at the Juniper Hunt Club.

All occupants and operators were uninjured.

CONCLUSION 
Based on evidence and information gathered to date, V1 sank due to its failure to get on plane caused by its faulty fuel system. Once water began coming over the bow the bilge pump was not able to dewater V1 fast enough. I do not find the operator at fault or in violation of any Coast Guard navigation rules.


BARDID: FL-2023-0468
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-08-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:33:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Atlantic Ocean
NearestCityTown: KEY WEST
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Poor
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentEvent1: Electrocution
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was part of a jet-ski tour following a guide on V2 between the ocean side and gulf side of Key West. V1 had an operator and occupant on board the vessel. The forecast for the day detailed inclement weather. While traveling through Cow Key channel, V1 was struck by lightning, ejecting both the operator and the occupant from the vessel. The guide operating V2 found the operator of V1 floating and unresponsive and had to perform CPR. The operator of V1 was taken by ambulance to Lower Keys Medical Center and later transfered to a Miami hospital for observation. ; OP1 was struck by lightning and ejected from the vessel. OP1 was unconscious after the incident and received CPR. Hospital staff treated OP1 as he regained consciousness and determined he had water in his lungs. OP1 was transferred to a Miami hospital for further observation, then released.


BARDID: FL-2023-0470
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-08-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:25:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Withlacoochee River
NearestCityTown: WEBSTER
County: SUMTER
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentEvent3: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was traveling along the Withlacoochee River when it encountered a wake causing operator and passenger to fall out of the vessel.  V1 veered toward the riverbank striking a MINOR boy in the water and a beached vessel.  No injuries were sustained. 
When I arrived on scene, I spoke with a witness. WITNESS 1 explained he was operating his vessel West along the Withlacoochee River with his friend OP1 following in his own vessel (V1). WITNESS 1 states suddenly they were no longer following so he turned back to find OP1 and his passenger both in the water and their vessel on the riverbank. 
Following this, I spoke with V1 operator OP1 and passenger. They both explained they were following WITNESS 1 along the river when their vessel caught the wake of the lead boat causing OP1 to fall out of the vessel.  OP1 states the kill switch fell of his wrist as he fell out of the vessel. PAX 1 states after the vessel flattened out following the wake, it started veering right.  He looked back and saw OP1 was no longer in the vessel. At this point, PAX 1 jumped out of the vessel to avoid crashing into land. 
The vessel veered toward the north bank, unoccupied.  Along that stretch of riverbank was a group of people and a beached vessel (V2).  In the water just before V2 was a minor.  MINOR was struck by V1 just before V1 struck V2. MINOR sustained no injuries.  V2 sustained damage to the engine and stern starboard side.  V2 owner and MINOR’s dad, stated they were parked on the bank and standing next V2 when they suddenly saw another vessel (V1) coming toward them. He called for MINOR to get out of the way while simultaneously moving.
I also spoke to two witnesses who were on the bank at the time of the incident.  Witnesses both stated an unmanned vessel V1 suddenly veered towards the riverbank running over MINOR and striking V2 before it ran ashore.  WITNESS states V1 engine was still running after running ashore. Witness states he was the one to shut the engine off. Witness states he noticed the lanyard was wrapped around the engine control handle following the accident.


BARDID: FL-2023-0471
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: gulf of mexico
NearestCityTown: ST. MARKS
County: WAKULLA
WaterConditions: Rough
HazardousWaters: Y
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Poor
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: Equipment failure
EquipmentFailure: Auxiliary
OtherEquipmentFailure: Bilge pump
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
RedactedNarrative:
On July 22, 2023, at approximately 1700 hours, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission were contacted by our Tallahassee Regional Communication Center, reference a vessel taking on water roughly 10 miles from the St. Marks Lighthouse. I was currently in Panacea, Fl. 
We met at Shields marina where we had a vessel stagged in the water, Officer 1 was able to communicate with both subjects on the vessel through cell phone communications to, OP1/PAX1, they were able to inform us that they were actively taking on water and attempting to get back to shore. A few moments later they informed us that the vessel sank.
We were waiting for safe conditions to board our vessel, conditions at the time were sever thunderstorm warning for our area till 7pm. At 5:38pm we had a break in the weather to safely preform a rescue operation. At 5:53pm we arrived to the location given, and observed both subjects and a capsized vessel, OP1 was sitting on the bow of the capsized vessel while PAX 1 was in the water holding on the to rigging that was on the port side of the vessel. Both subjects were brought on board our vessel and asked if they needed medical attention, both subjects refused.
OP1 informed me that the bilge pumps could not keep up with the amount of water that was coming into the vessel and it ultimately rolled and sank.


BARDID: FL-2023-0472
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-09-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 06:10:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Hatchineha/ C36 Canal
NearestCityTown: ST. CLOUD
County: OSCEOLA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Person departed vessel
AccidentEvent2: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
CASE SUMMARY
SYNOPSIS	
On September 2nd, 2023, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission responded to a boating incident that occurred on the C36 Canal between Lake Cypress and Lake Hatchineha at approximately 0610 hours. There were no injuries so both parties exchanged information and reported the incident after they finished their morning gator hunt. V2 was stopped on the West side of C36 canal when it observed V1 approaching from the North. V2 had it navigational lights on as well as shined a spotlight in the direction of V1 to ensure V1 could see them. V1 struck the rear port side of V2 and traveled approximately halfway down the side of V2 before falling back into the water. There were no injuries or passengers ejected from either vessel, but both vessels sustained damage.
INVESTIGATION
On September 2nd, 2023, at approximately 1130 hours I met with V1 along with all its passengers on Lake Cypress Rd in Osceola County. I conducted an interview with the owner/ operator OP1. OP1 explained that he was traveling southbound on plane in the C36 canal, and he observed a light down the canal. OP1 stated when he approached the area of the light, he unsure of what happened but saw V2 at the last second and tried turning hard to the port side. OP1 stated his starboard side went over V2. OP1 had 5 total occupants on the vessel including himself. Two of the occupants were paid customers for an alligator hunting guide service offered by OP1. OP1 produced all of the required safety equipment but was unable to produce a USCG captain’s license. OP1 stated he did not have a captain’s license. 
OP1 was aware that he hit a stopped vessel and took full responsibility for the incident. 
On September 2nd, 2023, at approximately 1245 hours I met with V2 along with its operator and one passenger at Port Hacthineha in Polk County. The third passenger had already returned home to St. Petersburg. I conducted an interview with the operator of the vessel OP1. OP1 explained that they were hunting alligator in the C36 canal just North of where the canal has a slight bend. OP1 stated the engine was off and the trolling motor was in the water, but the vessel was not moving. OP1 explained that he had his navigational lights on and when he observed a vessel coming from the North he shined his red spot light in the direction of the vessel a few times to ensure the vessel saw him. OP1 stated the vessel maintained a course at him and at the last second heard the operator of V1 say “ohh shit” just prior to striking V2. The two passengers on V2 jumped off just prior to being struck by V1. 
OP1 produced all of the required safety equipment and his boater’s safety card. 
Conclusion
Based on the evidence and information gathered to date, I have concluded that OP1 was in charge of and in command of V1 while upon the waters of the State at the time of the collision and was responsible for its safe operation.  OP1 did not maintain a proper lookout resulting in the collision with V2.
Based on statements gathered, I was able to determine that OP1 was operating a vessel in a manner that endangered the property of other persons outside the vessel. OP1 was issued a Uniform Boating Citation for violation USCG inland navigation rule number 5 Look-out. I am turning this report over to the USCG for investigation of operating a for hire vessel without a captain’s license. 
BWC footage taken.
End of Report.


BARDID: FL-2023-0473
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-10-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:00:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW
NearestCityTown: POMPANO BEACH
County: BROWARD
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
VESSEL 1 LOST CONTROL STRIKING THE BOAT LIFT PILING THAT VESSEL 2 WAS ONTOP OF.  BOAT LIFT COLLAPSED CAUSING VESSEL 2 TO FALL INTO THE WATER.  NO INJURIES.


BARDID: FL-2023-0474
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-10-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:15:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: ATLANTIC OCEAN
NearestCityTown: POMPANO BEACH
County: BROWARD
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
VESSEL 1 AND VESSEL 2 WERE TRAVELING EASTBOUND OFFSHORE IN CHOPPY WATER SIDE BY SIDE APPROXIMATELY TEN FEET APART.  OPERATOR OF VESSEL 1 CAME OFF A WAVE CAUSING HIM TO VEER RIGHT INTO AND OVER THE FRONT OF VESSEL 2.  NO INJURIES INCURRED.


BARDID: FL-2023-0475
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-09-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Atlantic Ocean
NearestCityTown: VERO BEACH
County: INDIAN RIVER
WaterConditions: Rough
HazardousWaters: Y
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Synopsis 

On September 3, 2023, at approximately 1700 hours two jet skiers were near “monsters’ hole” where larger than normal waves stack up and break. One of the jet skiers lost balance in the rough surf causing them to capsize. 

The second jet ski remained nearby in the rough surf causing them to capsize as well. Both PWC remained floating with both occupants in the water. Due to rough conditions a FWC patrol vessel was unable to reach them for rescue. FWC Captain and FWC Officer entered the water to bring the two occupants of the safely to shore. 

Operator1: On September 3rd 2023 operator1 capsized the PWC that he was operating, between the time of capsizing and rescue he hit in chin on the PWC causing a small laceration on the bottom of his chin. He was treated at Sebastian hospital. 

Operator2 :On Sept 3rd 2023 at approximately at 1721 hours operator2 PWC capsized in rough surf. Between the time of rescue and capsizing a wave pitched him causing into his right pelvis causing a contusion. He was admitted into the hospital and released the following day.


BARDID: FL-2023-0476
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-09-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:16:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: GULF OF MEXICO
NearestCityTown: CRYSTAL RIVER
County: CITRUS
WaterConditions: Choppy
HazardousWaters: Y
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
CoordinatesConfidence: C
RedactedNarrative:
On the above date OPERATOR/OWNER and two passengers left the Ft. Island Trail boat ramp in a 1998 17ft Aqua Sport to troll for grouper. While trolling Operator stated that the weather was getting rough and to reel up the lines. He placed the vessel in neutral while the two passengers moved to the aft of the vessel. 

While they were retrieving the lines they began taking water over the port aft of the vessel causing it to capsize. The passengers entered the water at this point and were able to get onto the capsized vessel. The operator was caught under the vessel at the console. Citrus County Sheriffs Office and FWC responded to the scene and found Operator deceased. Citrus County Dive Team responded to the scene and was able to free Operator from the console and fishing lure that was entangled in his shorts. 

Operator's remains were transported to the Buffer Preserve. The Medical Examiner Investigator was contacted and arrived a short time later and photographed and transported Operator's remains to the medical examiner's office. The vessel was towed back to the Ft. Island Trail boat ramp and was transported to the FWC Crystal River Field Office and placed into evidence. 

Once Operator's remains were recovered and transported to shore he was found to have lacerations to his calves which would be consistent with getting caught on the hooks of the lure and ripping along his legs. 

One occupant sustained minor lacerations from being hooked by a fishing lure when the vessel capsized. Her injuries did not require any EMS treatment or admittance to higher level care.


BARDID: FL-2023-0477
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-09-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: INDIAN RIVER
NearestCityTown: TITUSVILLE
County: BREVARD
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
V2 attempted to overtake V1 on the port side within the Intracoastal Waterway Channel. V2 impacted V1 on the port stern of the vessel.
	V1 was operated by OP1. OP1 stated that he was operating his vessel at approximately 24 knots within the channel of the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW) when V2 collided with the portside stern of his vessel. The bow of V2 was seen level with the rear of the flybridge, then slid down off the stern of the V1. After the collision, the two 490hp motors of V1 had shut off and were not restarted. V1’s anchor was deployed just outside of green channel marker 7 on the ICW. V1 contained four occupants. PAX 1 was thrown forward in the flybridge but did not report any sustained injuries. PAX 2 claimed to have gotten fiberglass in her right eye but was able to flush it out. No other injuries were reported from V1. All occupants except OP1 wore life jackets after the collision. V1 was towed by SeaTow at their request. 
	V2 was operated by OP2. OP2 stated that he was operating his vessel at approximately the same speed as V1 on the ICW. While he attempted to go over the wake of V1 to pass on the port side, his vessel did not make it over the wake. OP2 stated his vessel was pulled back behind V1 where his vessel ran up the port stern of V2. OP2 backed his vessel off V1 and tied up to the starboard side of the anchored V1 where they awaited Law Enforcement response. Both occupants wore life jackets. Despite damages to the starboard bow and lower hull, V2 remained fully operational and was able to depart under its own power once cleared. V2 contained one other occupant. Neither occupant reported any injuries. A vessel safety inspection, conducted by USCG, revealed that V2 was missing a Type IV throwable and a fire extinguisher. The USCG escorted the vessel back to its launching area and terminated their voyage.
	Written statements were taken from the occupants of both vessels.
	While attempting to pass V1, the operator of V2 violated Rule 8 of the Coast Guard Navigational Rules by failing to pass at a safe distance, as well as failure to take action to avoid the collision, by altering the course or speed of V2.


BARDID: FL-2023-0478
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-08-19 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:37:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: GULF
NearestCityTown: KEY LARGO
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Equipment failure
EquipmentFailure: Auxiliary
OtherEquipmentFailure: Bilge pump
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
RedactedNarrative:
On August 19th, 2023, at approximately 1837 hours Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC).  I was on patrol, in uniform, In Key Largo, Monroe County Florida. 
While on duty, I received a call from our dispatch center regarding a vessel accident that occurred just outside of Adams cut  in Key Largo, Fl. Reporting person stated thei was a vessel capsized just outside of adams cut. 
While on duty, I received a call from our dispatch center regarding a boating accident just outside of Adams Cut bayside. The reporting person said there was a boat capsized and there was a person in the water. Upon arrival, I observed one vessel capsized on the portside, later identified as vessel one (V1), an 18-foot Sea Pro boat.
 I then asked OP1 to board my vessel because there was a thunderstorm coming in. OP1 boarded my vessel, and I took him to shore at Kings Camp RV resort. I had an individual translate English to Spanish to OP1 to gather information on what happened. OP1 explained that his bilge pumps stopped working and the boat started to take on water and it sunk.


BARDID: FL-2023-0479
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-09-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:30:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Biscayne Bay
NearestCityTown: MIAMI
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
RedactedNarrative:
An incident involving a Personal Watercraft (PWC) caused injuries to the operator, OP1. The accident occurred when OP1 collided with a concrete structure/pier located between Venetian Marina and Margaret Pace Park due to off-throttle steering. Following the collision, OP1 required transportation to Ryder Trauma Center where she received treatment for her injuries. Fortunately, her injuries were deemed non-life threatening and she was reported to be in stable condition.
As per the reports provided by the witnesses, OP1 was operating a Personal Watercraft (PWC) at a speed of approximately 30mph in a westward direction between Pace Picnic Island and Venetian Causeway. After that, she altered her course towards the south and proceeded parallel to Margaret Pace Park Baywalk when she suddenly collided with the concrete structure/pier that connects the park and Venetian Marina. The high-speed impact caused OP1 to be thrown out of the PWC, but she remained conscious even after falling into the water.; As per the available reports, the operator of the personal watercraft (PWC), sustained multiple contusions and underwent various medical evaluations, including a scan to determine the possibility of a concussion. Her medical condition was assessed as stable and not life-threatening.


BARDID: FL-2023-0480
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-08-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:00:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Weir
NearestCityTown: OCKLAWAHA
County: MARION
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
The night of August 8th, 2023, a vessel bearing Florida Registration ramped across and lodged into a dock on the east side of Lake Weir. There were 3 occupants on board. There were no wheel witnesses. Statements from occupants onboard confict as to who was driving at the time of the accident. 
Upon arrival I spoke with Rescue Crew #1. RESCUE CREW #1 was part of the rescue crew that was on scene then transported both female subjects. RESCUE CREW #1 advised that the position of VICTIM 1 in the drivers’ seat of the boat seemed suspect (which he detailed in a sworn statement, see attached). I proceeded into the hospital where I met with PAX 1. PAX 1 advised that herself and VICTIM 1 met with a male subject possibly of Haitian decent with a name of OP1 earlier in the day at his boat. PAX 1 advised that they were on the boat for approximately an hour and a half before the accident. PAX 1 said that at the time of the accident she was sitting in the middle of the back seat of the boat with VICTIM 1 also in the back seat immediately to her right. PAX 1 said that at the time of the accident OP1 was driving. PAX 1 advised that all of them were drinking during the boat ride and that throughout the day all of them had drove the boat. When asked to complete a sworn statement PAX 1 did not think she would be able to write a statement, so I transcribed her statement (see attached). VICTIM 1 was asleep and hospital staff advised me not to wake her up. The only known injuries were to her head where she had a contusion on her forehead and a small laceration to her lip. ; VICTIM sustained injuries to the head and face


BARDID: FL-2023-0481
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-08-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:03:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Shipp
NearestCityTown: WINTER HAVEN
County: POLK
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On August 26th, 2023 at approximately 5:03pm, a recreational PWC (12' Yamaha ) with two occupants, struck a recreational vessel (17' Bayliner) with 4 occupants on board and one wake board being pulled. The accident occurred on Lake Shipp, in Winter Haven Fl. The accident didn’t result in any injuries or fatalities.
At approximately 5:22pm we arrived on scene at Lake Shipp Boat Ramp. Upon arrival, I observed a Polk County Deputy as well as FWC Officer on scene. After collecting the vessel information from the Polk County Deputy and Officer, I spoke with the operator of the struck vessel.
OP2 said the following: 
•	She was traveling North across the middle of Lake Shipp.
•	She was pulling her husband on a wakeboard.
•	Her kids were sitting in the rear port side.
•	She heard a crash and felt the boat rock.
•	She looked behind and did not see her husband on the wakeboard.
As I continued my investigation, I spoke with the occupant of the wakeboard 
He stated the following:
•	They were traveling through the middle of the lake.
•	He observed a jet ski strike the port side stern of the vessel towing him.
•	The collision caused him to be thrown from the wakeboard.
I collected written statements from OP2 who drew a diagram on the back depicting what she witnessed. I also collected a sworn written statement from wakeboarder regarding the accident. I conducted a vessel safety inspection on vessel 2. They produced all the required safety equipment I photographed all the damage to the port side stern of OP2 vessel as well as overall pictures of the vessel to include the safety equipment.
I observed port side stern damage of vessel V2. The damage included heavy fiberglass damage, a crack in the fiberglass that ran upwards approximately 16 inches long and separation from the cap of the vessel.
I then spoke with the operator of the striking vessel. OP1 was advised of her Miranda Rights from a prepared text and agreed to speak with us. 
OP1 said the following:
•	She was traveling East on Lake Shipp towards the boat ramp.
•	She did not see the other vessel until the last second.
•	She tried to turn the handle bars of her jet ski in order to avoid the collision.
•	She hit the back left side of the vessel.
•	She said she was traveling maybe 20 MPH on the jetski.


BARDID: FL-2023-0482
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-09-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:45:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Choctawhatchee Bay
NearestCityTown: FREEPORT
County: WALTON
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Person struck by propeller
RedactedNarrative:
The operator of V1 was towing two skiers on a tube in Alaqua Bayou. Both individuals being towed were ejected from the tube and the operator circled the vessel to pick up both skiers. Upon approaching one of the skiers in the water, the operator failed to put the vessel in neutral while the skier was attempting to board the vessel. This action resulted in the skier being struck by the vessels prop, causing an approximately 5'' laceration to his lower back. The injured skier was brought on board the vessel, transferred to EMS, and then transported a local hospital for treatment. The injured party was struck by the vessel's propeller in the lower back on the right side causing a laceration approximately 5 inches in length. Subject was transported by EMS to a local hospital for treatment.


BARDID: FL-2023-0483
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-08-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:58:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Florida Bay
NearestCityTown: MARATHON
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Choppy
HazardousWaters: Y
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel found capsized bayside of Rachel Key in Marathon, FL. 
On 08/10/23, I was on duty and in uniform in Monroe County, Florida. At approximately 1056 hours I responded to a call of a capsized vessel near Rachel Key on the bayside of Marathon, Florida. 
I met other FWC officers and USCG Marathon and responded to the scene by water. 
When we arrived on scene, the captain of the vessel, OP1 and the passenger, were on a good Samaritans vessel. Vessel was capsized and floating nearby. 
Upon speaking with OP1, he stated that the vessel had been operating normally throughout the night. When they were began operating in the same direction of the wind and waves, they noticed water was coming in the vessel between the transom and motor. As they vessel was on plane water was going up the back of the boat between the motor and the transom and was then being blown into the small vessel by the wind. He stated that they attempted to pump the water out but were unable to before it ultimately capsized due to the extra weight. 
OP1 stated that he recently purchased the vessel. The vessel had an after-market jack plate with the motor mounted farther away from the transom than originally installed.  
OP1 father arrived on scene and recovered both passengers and assisted with removing the vessel from the water.


BARDID: FL-2023-0484
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-09-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:24:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: INDIAN RIVER
NearestCityTown: TITUSVILLE
County: BREVARD
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On 09/02/2023, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission was dispatched. At approximately 05:24 PM FWC Dispatch received a call from Titusville Police Department advising that two jet skis struck each other in the Indian River, directly behind the FWC Titusville Office, 1 A Max Brewer Memorial Parkway, Titusville, FL, Brevard County. The vessels struck each other head-on, resulting in one operator being ejected from the jet ski and subsequently transported to the Parrish Hospital where he received stitches for a head wound and was released the same day.; (V2) sustained injuries to his head and face due to (V1) striking him head on. V2 attempted to use the breaks on his vessel at that time V1 was unable to stop, and ramped over V2 striking him in his head with the hull of V1. Victim was transported by ambulance to Parrish Hospital in Titusville where he received stitches to the injury on the left side of his head in front of his ear, and the left side of his lip. He also received a CT scan that showed no issues. Victim was subsequently released from the hospital shortly after his arrival.


BARDID: FL-2023-0485
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-09-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:30:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: ATLANTIC
NearestCityTown: CUDJOE KEY
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Person departed vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
RedactedNarrative:
V1 in neutral while S1 enters water.
After S1 enters water, operator strikes  S1 on the right arm with the propeller as engine engaged.
At approximately 1530 we arrived at Lower Keys Medical Center and spoke with the injured person.  VICTIM said he was with his wife.  The two were on their 17'  Boston Whaler center.  VICTIM entered the water at the port side stern of the vessel to search for Spiny Lobster while OP1 was operating the vessel.  After VICTIM entered the water, he was struck by the vessel’s propeller on the right arm near his elbow. VICTIM climbed back onto the vessel.  OP1 notified 911 and headed towards Cudjoe Garden Marina.  
	After obtaining VICTIM’s statement and description of the incident, I waited at the hospital for OP1 to arrive.  At approximately 1600 hours,  OP1 arrived at the hospital. I confirmed that she was the operator of the vessel at the time VICTIM was struck by the propeller.    OP1 said she observed VICTIM exit the boat.  Without checking where VICTIM was OP1 put the motor in gear to move away from him. After striking VICTIM with the propeller, the engine stalled or "cut out". This alerted OP1 to the accident and she assisted VICTIM onto the boat. From there, first aid was provided and she transported VICTIM to Cudjoe Garden Marina.  No further action was taken that day.;VICTIM sustained minor lacerations that needed stitches. He was discharged from the hospital later that same day.


BARDID: FL-2023-0486
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-08-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:50:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: little Sarasota Bay
NearestCityTown: OSPREY
County: SARASOTA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent3: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On August 6, 2023, at approximately 1150 hours, a two-vessel collision occurred in Little Sarasota Bay just north of the Blackburn Point Bridge in Sarasota County, Florida. The vessels involved were a blue 10-foot Yamaha PWC, (V1) operated by one adult male with one adult female passenger and a white 10-foot Yamaha PWC, (V2) operated by one adult male and one adult female passenger. Both V1 and V2 were traveling north in the marked channel when for an unknown reason V2 made a hard port side turn directly in front of V1. V1 completely ramped over V2 ejecting all passengers from both vessels into the water. The female passenger of V2 received serious bodily injury to her left leg and was transported to the hospital for her injuries. 
This is an ongoing investigation.; Victim was flown to Tampa General Hospital. At the hospital she underwent surgery where they placed a plate in her left leg securing it with 7 screws.


BARDID: FL-2023-0487
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-09-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 08:00:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Bay
NearestCityTown: EVERGLADES
County: COLLIER
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent3: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On September 16th, 2023, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Division of Law Enforcement (FWC) was on-duty, conducting law enforcement patrol in Collier County, State of Florida.

I was in my unmarked FWC State Law Enforcement patrol truck. I responded to a call in Chokoloskee in regards to a vessel accident involving injuries and an ejected person at the outdoor resort and marina. Upon arrival CCSO was on scene and had gathered identification for the individuals involved. The injured party was already transported via Ambulance Medic.
V1- Bay Craft green in color flats skiff was already on trailer. 
V2- Canyon Bay ,bay boat tied off to the marina dock.
At around 8:00 AM, V1 Operator was leaving the boat ramp of outdoor resort traveling appr. 20 mph on plane headed south. V2 Operator was headed east out of Snook alley canal on plane also going around an estimated 25mph. The day was calm seas, clear skis, light wind and no other boat traffic. The tide was a falling tide close to low. V1 operator stated he was avoiding a crab buoy when he happened to notice the vessel in front of him and it was too late to avoid collision. At that point he struck the port side of V2 and was ejected from his vessel and landed in the prop wash of V2. V2 Operator stated he was coming out of the canal on plane adjusting his jack plate when he noticed V1 coming from the north but stated the vessel was already too close to avoid collision. V2 Operator stated that upon impact he came off the throttle and went back to recover the operator in the water.
I confirmed with Everglades National Park that both vessels were operating in a Everglades National Park Manatee zone at the time of the accident. No vessel should be operating in the zone at the speeds reported from the accident. Coordinates (N25 48.887 W81 21.286)
After documenting the damage to the vessels it I believe both vessels have over 2,000 dollars in damages. 
V1- Operator ejected from vessel unharmed, Passenger seated to the left of operator thrown forward towards bow taking out the center console and sustained broken right arm and shoulder due to impact with the console.
V1- Damage to bow of the vessel and substantial damage to the starboard side along the gunnel and under the hull. Center console was completely removed and vessel was inoperable. Damage to exceed 2,000 dollars.
V2- Operator and passenger behind the helm uninjured as well as the two passengers in the tower. 
V2- Damage to the port side of vessel along the hull and gunnel from both initial impact and secondary impact towards the stern. Vessel was operable. Damage to exceed 2,000 dollars.
During the vessel accident victim was throw forward in the vessel making contact and taking out the center console. When making contact with the center console victim dislocated his right shoulder and broke his upper arm. Upon arrival on scene victim was already transported to Physicians Regional Hospital in Naples by Medic  When I arrived at the Emergency room to get statement victim was being prepped for surgery. Upon follow up a week later victim’s father stated surgery went well and he was recovering.


BARDID: FL-2023-0488
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-09-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:25:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Atlantic Ocean
NearestCityTown: JUPITER
County: PALM BEACH
WaterConditions: Very rough
HazardousWaters: Y
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On September 16, 2023, V1 with three occupants was heading eastbound out of the Jupiter Inlet, Palm Beach County, Florida.  V1 exited the inlet at an estimated cruising speed of 9 knots.  The sea conditions directly outside of the inlet were 4'-6' waves with occasional larger sets.  The operator of V1 attempted to turn around when they observed an estimated 8' wave approaching the bow.  V1's stern was struck by the wave, forcing V1 down the wave.  V1 involuntarily rotated starboard then consequentially rolled on the port side capsizing the vessel.  All three occupants were displaced from the vessel.  Occupants were rescued by a good Samaritan on a personal watercraft and taken to Dubois Park in Jupiter.  One occupant reported back pain.  All three occupants denied medical treatment from EMS.  The vessel was recovered and removed from state waters. Victim reported back pain at the time of interview. Victim refused medical treatment from EMS.


BARDID: FL-2023-0490
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-09-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:00:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: INDIAN RIVER LAGOON
NearestCityTown: FORT PIERCE
County: SAINT LUCIE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Hull failure
AccidentCause2: Equipment failure
EquipmentFailure: Auxiliary
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
RedactedNarrative:
FISHING VESSEL TOOK ON WATER AND CAPSIZED
The vessel is a white 18' Dusky center console fishing vessel with a single Yamaha outboard motor of 115 horsepower. 
Both advised the vessel took on water while they were drifting and fishing and when they noticed water bubbling up through the deck plates, the vessel quickly became unstable and rolled onto it starboard side. Both men put on their life jackets and OP1 called 911 via his cell phone. Neither of the men sustained any injuries. I recovered any loose fishing equipment and returned it to OP1. Once they had the loose equipment, the Sheriff's office transported both men to shore. OP1 was advised to ensure his vessel was removed from the water as soon as possible or it would be deemed derelict.
While inspecting the vessel, I found four holes approximately 1/2 inch in diameter on the port transom. The holes appeared to be from an unknown accessory that had been removed. The holes penetrated through the transom into the space between the hull and deck cap. I believe the two lower holes are the most likely point of water intrusion into the hull beneath the deck cap and that the hull filled with water until it came up through the deck plates prior to capsizing. When asked if the bilge pump had been working, OP1 was unaware.


BARDID: FL-2023-0491
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-09-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:00:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: San Carlos Bay
NearestCityTown: FORT MYERS
County: LEE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On Thursday, September 28th, 2023, at approximately 0900 hours FWC received a report of a boating accident that occurred on September 17th, 2023, approximately 11 days earlier. The incident involved only one vessel, causing injuries while attempting to cross another vessel’s wake. There was no boating or property damage associated with this accident. A female suffered a small fracture to her T12 vertebrate in her spine when she was thrown down to the floor of a vessel when it hit a wake. This accident was not initially reported because the injury was not discovered until an x-ray revealed the injury approximately 10 days later, when the female occupant went to the doctor thinking she had a bruised tail bone that was not healing.; Subject suffered small fracture to T12 vertebrate. Subject was not aware of injury at time of accident. She did not go to doctor until approximately 10 days after.


BARDID: FL-2023-0492
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-09-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:58:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Atlantic Ocean
NearestCityTown: KEY LARGO
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Equipment failure
AccidentCause2: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Steering
EquipmentFailure: Auxiliary
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (non-fuel)
RedactedNarrative:
On 9/9/2023, OP1 along with the occupants stated above, was returning to Kawama Marina from a day of fishing. OP1 navigated his vessel towards the boat dock. During this action, OP1 noticed that the vessel steering wheel started to seize, making turning wheel difficult. Additionally, the outboard motor would not rotate in response to the steering wheel being turned. Shortly after OP1 observed smoke coming from the rod holders, anchor well, the electronics compartment within the center console, and stern hatches. 
OP1 evacuated all the occupants and immediately grabbed both fire extinguishers from V1 spraying the anchor well, center console and stern hatches. Smoke continued to spew from the above-described areas. OP1 and PAX called fire rescue and ran to their residence to retrieve additional fire extinguishers. Fire rescue arrived on scene and began extinguishing the fire on V1.
 At approximately 4:18, FWC arrived on scene. Witness statements were collected from the two adults, and the three juveniles were interviewed. As fire rescue extinguished the first fire, a secondary fire started within the inner hull of V1. The secondary fire was extinguished using chemical foam. Smoke could no longer be visibly seen coming from V1. A large burn hole in the fiberglass, measuring approximately a foot long can be visibly seen on the starboard inner gunwale of V1. On the starboard hull towards the midship of V1, the fiberglass was heat warped and uneven, suggesting that the interior structure in that area is no longer structurally sound. Additionally, no visible flames could be seen coming from V1 during the extent of the incident. This information combined with the fact that the steerage malfunctioned before the fire, suggests that the fire could have originated in the area near or around the power steering pump. Throughout the duration of the incident, the vessel remained stationary in front of the boat ramp. No occupants on the vessel were injured during the incident. Pictures of V1 were collected for the incident summary report.


BARDID: FL-2023-0494
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 03:20:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Similar sound
NearestCityTown: KEY WEST
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Poor
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On 07/22/2023, Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission, while off duty, received a phone call from Lake Worth Regional Communication Center (LWRCC) for a boating accident with injuries. 
	After coming on duty, at approximately 0320 hours I responded to the boat ramp at Seaside Resort. While coming into the resort I met VICTIM an occupant aboard the vessel involved in the boating incident. VICTIM suffered two broken/dislocated fingers and abrasions to the left knee and self transported to Lower Keys Medical, Stock Island, Florida.
	I then met with the owner/operator of the vessel and the third occupant on the vessel. Both provided verbal and written statements. OP1 gave me verbal consent to search the GPS on board the vessel and showed me where the incident took place (N24 34.973’ W81 37.619’).
	The vessel, a 2014 25’ Dusky cabin vessel identified by Florida registration had damage to the bow railing, bow eye, engine cowling and minor gelcoat scrapes. Mangrove debris was scattered all throughout the inside of the vessel. 
Based on evidence and statements I provide the following conclusion:
	While returning from fishing, OP1 was navigating into Similar sound from the Atlantic. The channel has a bend that follows closely along a mangrove shoreline. While OP1 was using a spotlight and GPS to navigate, OP1 missed the area where he needed to turn to make the turn safely. OP1 was operating on plane at approximately 25-30mph at the time the incident took place. OP1 attempted to slow down and correct for the error. The vessel ran aground in the mangroves and came to a stop. OP1 and the individuals called for tow service and alerted United states Coast Guard. OP1 was able to push the boat back to deeper water where he anchored and waited for tow service, who eventually towed them into Seaside resort where I met them. 
	No evidence was seized.
	Body worn video is available.
	All events occurred in Monroe County, Florida.; VICTIM,:VICTIM suffered two broken/dislocated fingers and abrasions to the left knee and self transported to Lower Keys Medical, Stock Island, Florida.


BARDID: FL-2023-0495
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-09-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:25:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: GULF OF MEXICO
NearestCityTown: HERNANDO BEACH
County: HERNANDO
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
V1 and V2 were both outbound Herando Beach channel, with V1 astern of V2. At or near DBN 40, V1 excelerated to 30+mph to overtake V2 prior to the turn at DBN 37. While V1 was was attempting to crest the wake of V2 to overtake. The operator of V1 lost control of V1  instead of powering down powered up and V1 set down on the stern of V2. causing damage to stern of V2, an hull damage to V1. No injuries to the occupants of either V1 or V2.


BARDID: FL-2023-0496
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-10-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:12:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Rocky Creek
NearestCityTown: TAMPA
County: HILLSBOROUGH
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Person departed vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On October 4th 2023 at approximately  1400 hours , vessel number 1 (V1) was heading South on the Rocky River. The operator stated the vessel started leaning side ways so she pushed on the throttle, the vessel excelled towards the mangroves. The operator  stated  to avoid hitting the mangroves, she jumped off her vessel into the water, where she cut her feet on the oyster beds. 

Occupant: Lacerations observed on both right and left leg and feet. Various scratches on right arm. Received three stitches on right foot.


BARDID: FL-2023-0497
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-09-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:32:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW
NearestCityTown: NORTH PALM BEACH
County: PALM BEACH
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Two vessels were northbound in the ICW. Vessel one was overtaking vessel two and ran into the back of it.

	After speaking with the operators and occupants of both vessel and inspecting the damage, it was determined that V1 and V2 were traveling north on the ICW from the Peanut Island area. V2 was travelling at approximately 20mph with V1 following behind at approximately 25-30mph. The operator of V1 was not maintaining a proper lookout as it began to approach and overtake V2. V1 then struck and ran up onto the stern of V2. Victim:Taken to hospital for neck pain and released.


BARDID: FL-2023-0498
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-08-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:00:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: St. Johns River
NearestCityTown: JACKSONVILLE
County: DUVAL
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, received information from Officer 2 about a boating accident that JRCC dispatched to him for a follow up investigation. The subject, OP1, was transported from the north end of Hugenot Park near the birding area by Jacksonville Fire and Rescue Department (JFRD). OP1's jet ski was taken to Alamacani Boat Ramp and Jacksonville Sheriff's Office stayed with the vessel. 
      OP1 described the accident as follows. OP1 was traveling on his jet ski, out of the Mayport Inlet towards the Atlantic Ocean with a group of his friends. OP1 hit a wave going approxiametly 12 miles per hour and was separated from his jet ski. When OP1 came back down on his jet ski he hit his left arm which broke on impact. OP1 stated that his friends were approximately 60 to 70 feet away when the accident occurred. OP1 claims to have approximately 200-300 hours of experience on a jet ski and received a boating safety card from the state of Michigan.  OP1 had no damage to his jet ski and claimed no one else was involved in the accident or the events leading up to it. 
     OP1 hung up during our conversation and that is all of the information that he reported.; OP1 stated that he broke his arm when he came back down on his PWC after being seperated from it while hitting a wave.


BARDID: FL-2023-0499
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-09-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 07:40:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Tampa Bay
NearestCityTown: TAMPA
County: HILLSBOROUGH
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On August 22, 2023, Vessel one and vessel two were docked unattended at the Davis Island Boat Ramp for a couple hours.  The owner retured to the boat ramp and both vessels had startboard side damage.  No one has come forward to accept responsiblity.
On September 13, 2023, I met with RP at Tug's RV and Boat Storage in Tampa, to discuss a boating accident involving his two pwc's that were struck by an unknown vessel at Davis Island Boat Ramp.
I arrived on scene and spoke to RP.  RP stated that on August 22, 2023, he docked his two pwc's at Davis Island Boat Ramp in Tampa.  His vessel's were tied up to the southern floating dock.  RP stated that he launched the vessels with his brother in law at approximately 5pm.  RP left the vessels in the water when they realized that they left the life jackets at home.  RP's girlfriend left the scene to retrieve the life jacket.  During that time RP and his brother in law went to the dog beach next to the boat ramp and set up a hammock.  Approximately two hours later, RP, stated he returned to the dock noticed both of his PWC's had damage to the starboard side.  
I photographed the vessels on scene and obtained a witness statement. Both vessels had rear starboard damage that was estimated to be at least 2000 dollars.  
I contacted Tampa Police Department dispatch and they stated that they had no one call in that day stating that they were involved in a vessel accident.


BARDID: FL-2023-0500
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-09-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:30:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW
NearestCityTown: VILLANO BEACH
County: SAINT JOHNS
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1, identified by Florida registration, was traveling North through Vilano Beach Causeway Slow Speed Zone. At approximately 1730 hours, the operator of Vessel 1 cleared the Slow Speed Zone and increased speed to bring Vessel 1 onto plane. While increasing speed, the female occupant of Vessel 1 lost her grip on the seat strap, slid off the back of Vessel 1, and fell into the water. As she fell off Vessel 1, the jet stream from the back of Vessel 1 entered her rectum causing internal injuries to the connecting organs.  The female occupant was pulled from the water by a Good Samaritan vessel and transported to Vilano Beach Boat Ramp. She was transported by ambulance to Hospital. VICTIM:WATER JET FROM JET STREAM PROPELLED WATER UP HER RECTUM CAUSING INTERNAL INJURY TO HER ANUS AND CONNECTING ORGANS


BARDID: FL-2023-0501
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-08-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:46:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: GROUPER CREEK
NearestCityTown: KEY LARGO
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On August 25, 2023, at approximately 1246 hours, a vessel traveling north collided with the starboard side of a vessel traveling south in Grouper Creek, Key Largo. One occupant on vessel 02 received a gash on her foot. The injured occupant refused medical treatment from emergency medical personnel.
I conducted an on-scene interview with the operator of vessel 02. OP2 explained that at approximately 1230 hours he left Tamarind Bay with six occupants on board (listed above). OP2 explained that they were traveling south through Grouper Creek when he spotted a large, gray vessel traveling north. OP2 observed the larger vessel, in the middle of the channel, traveling straight towards his vessel. OP2 explained that he conducted a series of evasive maneuvers beginning by turning to the port, then back to starboard. OP2 explained that every time he attempted to move out of the way of vessel 01, vessel 01 would move to the same direction. Damage to the vessel was consistent with a turn to port before collision.  
	According to the occupants of vessel 02, the collision occurred at approximately 1246 hours. The bow of vessel 01 collided with the starboard side gunwale of vessel 02. Occupants of vessel 02 remained mostly stationary except for victim, who was thrown from the starboard gunwale onto the deck after impact. The damage to vessel 02 was assessed and photographed at the scene as follows: T-top separated from vessel and aluminum poles bent to the port side, approximately 30-inch long hole in fiberglass on starboard gunwale, starboard side aluminum railing bent and separated from starboard gunwale. ; Victim had a deep laceration to her foot from broken glass. Blood from the wound was present on the deck of the vessel. While answering interview questions VICTIM 1 vomited off of the port side of the vessel, into the water. I offered to take VICTIM 1 to the Key Largo Ranger Station to be evaluated by EMS personnel. VICTIM 1 refused treatment and explained that the laceration was minor and the vomiting was from nervousness.


BARDID: FL-2023-0502
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:37:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Haldeman Creek
NearestCityTown: NAPLES
County: COLLIER
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Equipment failure
EquipmentFailure: Auxiliary
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (non-fuel)
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent3: Person departed vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel caught on fire.

On July 7th, 2023, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), Division of Law Enforcement, was on duty and in uniform, conducting State Law Enforcement patrol in Collier County, Florida.  
I responded to a vessel that caught on fire in Haldeman Creek. 
When I arrived on scene the fire department had extinguished the fire. 
I talked to the Operator and Occupant.
According to the operator and the occupant, the vessel caught on fire by the engine compartment. The operator tried extinguishing the fire with no success. Vessel was engulfed by the flames and operator and occupant had to put PFDs on and jump into the water. A good Samaritan picked them up and took them to shore.


BARDID: FL-2023-0503
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-06-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:00:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Alafia River
NearestCityTown: RIVERVIEW
County: HILLSBOROUGH
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Poor
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
CoordinatesConfidence: C
RedactedNarrative:
On Saturday, June 03, 2023, at approximately 1937 hours, V1 was traveling west along the Northern shoreline of the Alafia River. V1 collided with a dock coming off the shoreline. Both of V1’s occupants, operator and passenger, were ejected from the vessel. 

V1 became wedged under the dock. V1’s operator was transported to Tampa General Hospital for internal bleeding. V1’s passenger refused treatment for minor scrapes and bruises. After going into surgery at Tampa General Hospital V1’s operator was pronounced deceased. 

Operator:Laceration of the liver. Transection of the hepatic vein. Abrasions and contusions on his face. A patterned abrasion in the middle of his chest. Abrasions and contusions across his left arm. Contusion on the wrist. Abrasion and laceration on his left thigh.; Occupant:Minor scrapes and scratches.

Based on the ME report, the toxicology showed ethanol in the operator's blood.


BARDID: FL-2023-0504
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-09-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:45:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Atlantic Ocean
NearestCityTown: PALM BEACH
County: PALM BEACH
WaterConditions: Rough
HazardousWaters: Y
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On Monday, September 18, 2023, at approximately 12:45pm, a single Personal Watercraft (PWC) accident occurred offshore of Palm Beach Island. The operator of the PWC (vessel-1) was knocked off V1 by a large wave in the surf zone near the beach. While attempting to push V-1 through the surf, a subsequent wave caused V-1 to knock into the operator. The operator sustained spinal injuries and was transported to St. Mary’s hospital. The injuries were, C6/C7 – Compression, with a fracture to the C7, T3/T4 – Compression with Spinal Edema throughout.;While attempting to push V-1 through the surf, a subsequent wave caused V-1 to knock into the operator. The operator sustained spinal injuries and was transported to St. Mary’s hospital. The injuries were, C6/C7 – Compression, with a fracture to the C7, T3/T4 – Compression with Spinal Edema throughout.


BARDID: FL-2023-0505
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-09-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:00:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: St Johns River
NearestCityTown: WELAKA
County: PUTNAM
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Steering
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was operating on plane at approximately 25-30 miles per hour in the St. Johns River near Welaka. The vessel struck a submerged object and suddenly took a sharp turn, ejecting both the operator and occupant out of the vessel. The vessel remained operating unmanned doing circles.

On September 19th, 2023, I received a phone call from a family member of subject1. She stated that Subject1 pulled the vessel out of the water and found that the steering cable was severed. They provided pictures of the cable and also stated that there was no apparent damage to the bottom hull of the vessel.

All events were captured on body worn camera and Lieutenant took digital photographs. All events occurred in Putnam County State of Florida.

Operator:The injuries consisted of one laceration to the back of the left calf muscle. Both individuals obtained stitches while at the local hospital. Subject1:The injuries consisted of one laceration to the back of the left calf muscle. Both individuals obtained stitches while at the local hospital.


BARDID: FL-2023-0506
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-09-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:46:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Bay
NearestCityTown: KEY BISCAYNE
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was operating near Crandon Boat Ramp when excessive wake caused passengers to fall and sustain injuries. 
I learned that there were three individuals riding the PWC. The operator sat in the front, while the victim who sustained injuries sat in the middle, and pax 3 sat in the back. The PWC was being operated at idle speed when a wake caused the individuals to lose balance. At that time, VICTIM fell off the port side of the PWC, hitting her tailbone on the gunwale of the PWC. A nearby vessel that was occupied by friends of VICTIM picked her up and brought her to Crandon Boat Ramp. VICTIM was then transported in an ambulance to Mercy Hospital to be treated for her sustained tailbone injuries.
I spoke with PAX 3 who confirmed the details of the incident. He also stated that there was no damage to the PWC although there was a paint chip on the port-side gunwale. He then provided a written sworn statement. ; VICTIM,:The PWC was being operated at idle speed when a wake caused the individuals to lose balance. At that time, VICTIM fell off the port side of the PWC, hitting her tailbone on the gunwale of the PWC.


BARDID: FL-2023-0507
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-10-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:00:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Tampa Bay
NearestCityTown: RUSKIN
County: HILLSBOROUGH
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
RedactedNarrative:
On October 7 2023, at approximately 9:00pm, Vessel 1 (V-1) was traveling in Tampa Bay with one male subject on board.  V-1 struck the pier outside Little Harbor on the Tampa Bay side.  The collission resulted in damage to the Pier and also to the vessel.


BARDID: FL-2023-0509
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-09-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:30:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Bayside Marina Canal
NearestCityTown: PANAMA CITY BEACH
County: BAY
WaterConditions: Calm
CongestedWaters: Y
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Congested waters
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Responded to a boating accident involving two vessel.  One vessel struck another vessel's trolling motor.  The location of the accident occurred at Bayside Marina off of Big Daddy Drive in Panama City Beach.  No injuries and only damage to vessels.  See detailed narrative.

While talking with RP, the striking vessel (V01) arrived back on-scene.  The owner/operator of V01 was identified as OP1.  V01 was identified by FL registration numbers as a 2012 26' Avalon & Tahoe pontoon vessel that was red/maroon in color with a 150 hp motor.  I asked OP1 what happened and he advised that he was backing out of the slip and was about to hit a large yacht.  He put the throttle forward to try to avoid hitting the yacht and hit V02.  V01 had damage to the port side aluminum.  You can see where the skeg of the trolling motor punctured and tore the aluminum.  I asked OP1 why he didn't remain on-scene and he said that he was advised that everything was okay and that dock personnel told him it was okay to leave.


BARDID: FL-2023-0510
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:50:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Ana Maria Sound
NearestCityTown: BRADENTON BEACH
County: MANATEE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On July 30th, 2023, at approximately 1448 hours a two-vessel collision occurred in Manatee County Florida. 

V1, a 43-foot Black Thunder high performance vessel being operated by OP1, was on plane traveling in a northwestern direction at an undetermined speed, on the intercoastal waterway near Holmes Beach. 

V2, a 23-foot Crownline bow riding vessel, moving at a slow rate of speed near marker “64”. 

V1 impacted the starboard bow quarter of V2, V1 ramped V2 causing significant damage to both vessels. Several passengers onboard V2 were injured as a result of the collision and transported to the hospital. 

VICTIM 1: Minor injuries Small lacerations from broken glass Laceration to back  transported to the hospital to received treatment and discharged shortly after; 
VICTIM 2: Minor injuries Small lacerations from broken glass approximate 1" laceration to left foot Bruising to forehead, and knees Transported to the hospital to received treatment and discharged shortly after; 
VICTIM 3: Minor injuries Small lacerations to legs Transported to the hospital to received treatment and discharged shortly after; 
VICTIM 4: Minor injuries  Lacerations to both legs Transported to the hospital to received treatment and discharged shortly after; 
VICTIM 5: Minor injuries Lacerations to both legs Transported to the hospital to received treatment and discharged shortly after; 
VICTIM 6: Minor injuries Lacerations to knees and bruising to legs Transported to the hospital to received treatment and discharged shortly after; 
VICTIM 7: Minor injuries Lacerations to both legs Transported to the hospital to received treatment and discharged shortly after 
VICTIM 8, a passenger of V2, suffered serious bodily injuries.; Scalp avulsion with open skull fracture - right side Posterior rib fractures Small right sided hemopneumothorax Small subdural and arachnoid brain bleeds Nose fracture  Underwent surgery on 7/31/23 to remove bone and metal fragments from head on the right side; 


BARDID: FL-2023-0511
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-09-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:50:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Ocklawaha River
NearestCityTown: SILVER SPRINGS
County: MARION
WaterConditions: Calm
HazardousWaters: Y
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Sharp turn
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On September 10, 2023 at approximately 1550 hrs.  a single vessel incident with injuries occurred on the Ocklawaha River, Marion County, Florida. V1 is a 2001 16 foot aluminum hull powered by a tiller controlled outboard engine. V1 was occupied by adult males and was traveling on a plane heading back to a boat ramp. While turning V1 in a curve the operator observed a palm tree hanging over the water.  The operator tried to correct by steering straight the vessel did not react and V1 allied with the tree and the operator and occupant were ejected into the water.  Other vessels soon arrived to transport the two back to the boat ramp. V1's operator sustained a laceration to his right pinky finger and was treated at Ocala Regional Medical Center. The occupant refused medical treatment at the scene. Victim: Operators left pinky finger sustained a laceration and partial amputation. Operator was trasported to Ocala Regional Medical Center were he was treated for injury. Injury was not life threatning or serious disfigurement.


BARDID: FL-2023-0512
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-08-31 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:39:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW
NearestCityTown: UNINCORPORATED
County: SANTA ROSA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On Thursday August 31, 2023, at 1639hrs. in the waters of Santa Rosa County ICW (latitude N 30 24 6.08 / longitude W86 52 30.36) 2 jet skis collided. V-1 struck V-2 at a 45-degree angle on the mid starboard side causing V-2 to sink, speeds were estimated to be between 35 and 45 mph. Operator of V-2 suffered from lacerations on his right foot.; OP2’s right foot received minor lacerations and abrasions.


BARDID: FL-2023-0513
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-10-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:00:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Gulf of Mexico
NearestCityTown: KEY WEST
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On 10/21/2023 Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission (FWC), was enroute to the City Marina in Key West. At approximately 10:00 a.m. I observed radio traffic indicating that a boating accident had occurred. I was informed that the victim was back on land at the Jet Ski rental business. I arrived at approximately 10:15 and observed Emergency Medical Service (EMS) personnel on scene. They informed me that they were transporting the victim to Lower Keys Medical Center. I followed EMS to the emergency room.
At the emergency room I identified the victim as a W/F tourist. I observed OP1 to have facial injuries. (See injury supplement of this report).
I obtained a written statement from OP1. In her statement OP1 stated that she had never operated a Personal Water Craft (PWC) prior to 10/21/2023. OP1 stated that she was nervous about riding by herself but decided to try anyway. After receiving verbal instructions on the operation of a PWC OP1 stated that she took her place in line at the rear of the column of PWCs. A tour guide was directly behind OP1. She stated that as she began to apply the throttle she felt like she wasn’t able to steer the PWC (V1). As she approached what she described as a “floating shed” (later identified as a houseboat) OP1 stated that she attempted to steer away from the vessel but was unable to do so. OP1 stated that she hit the rear of the vessel and was ejected into the water. OP1 stated that the tour guide approached her and pulled her form the water onto a PWC and took her back to land.; OP1: observed injuries to the face, a possible broken nose, and a laceration to the left earlobe.


BARDID: FL-2023-0515
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:15:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: SUWANNEE RIVER
NearestCityTown: UNINCORPORATED
County: DIXIE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On July 2nd, 2023, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), was conducting water patrol near the mouth of the Suwannee River with FWC Officer. At approximately 1800 hours, we responded to a boating accident at the Demory Creek Boat Ramp in the town of Suwannee (Dixie County).
Upon arrival to the boat ramp, the at-fault vessel (V1) was loaded onto a trailer and parked near the ramp. V1 was identified as a 24ft Maverick, with a blue scenery wrap, bearing Georgia registration. OP1 explained to me that she had little to no experience operating this vessel on her own, as it belonged to her deceased husband.
Struck Vessels (docked across the canal from boat ramp):
	- V2: 16ft Classic Airboat 
	- V3: 12ft Griffis 
	According to OP1 and all witnesses, she attempted to load V1 onto the trailer multiple times. On her last attempt to load V1, OP1 maneuvered it in a starboard direction, applied too much throttle, and lost control. The port side of V1 glanced the starboard side of V2 and the bow of V1 topped the port side stern of V3, causing integrity damage to the transom and cowling of V3. Paint transfer was applied to the starboard side of V2 from V1, and the wrap on V1 sustained rips and scrapes. The keel guard on V1 sustained damaged as well.
	Furthermore, there were swimmers nearby in the canal. A passerby stopped to assist in loading V1 onto its trailer. After assessing the scene and damages of all vessels involved, I conclude that the statements of OP1 and the witnesses were an accurate account of the incident. Due to her inexperience operating V1, which caused damage to multiple vessels with swimmers nearby, I cited OP1 with the following:
INFRACTION – FS 327.33(2): Careless Operation of a vessel
	Officer collected written statements from all witnesses and photos were taken of all vessels involved. The investigation was captured on agency-issued, body-worn camera. No further law enforcement action taken.


BARDID: FL-2023-0516
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-10-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 08:30:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Amelia River
NearestCityTown: FERNANDINA BEACH
County: NASSAU
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Electrical
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (non-fuel)
RedactedNarrative:
Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, were on patrol at approximately 0830 hours when Jacksonville Regional Communication Center (JRCC) dispatched us to a vessel fire reported at the North end of Ft. Clinch State Park near the South Jetties. We were advised by Nassau County that the crew was dropped off at Oasis Marina and were told to stand by for our arrival. There were no injuries involved and everyone was accounted for. We took witness statements from everyone involved.
Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, were on patrol at approximately 0830 hours when Jacksonville Regional Communication Center (JRCC) dispatched us to a vessel fire reported at the North end of Ft. Clinch State Park near the South Jetties. We were advised by Nassau County that the crew was dropped off at Oasis Marina and were told to stand by for our arrival. We arrived on scene at Oasis Marina and made contact with the owner of the boat, and his deckhand. They both completed a witness statement form stating that the vessel started smoking leading to a fire out of the port side of the vessel. They believed it was electrical and used their fire extinguisher and believed that he had put out the fire but that it had broken out again. OP1 had been chartering his vessel and had three guests on board. OP1 stated he directed everyone on board put on a life jacket and OP1 called another charter vessel to come and get them off of his boat. They were able to get onto the other boat and make it back to Oasis Marina where they had launched from. OP1 vessel was beached at Fort Clinch in Fernandina where Nassau County Sheriff's Office and Nassau County Fire Rescue (NCFR) were on scene trying to extinguish the vessel fire. 
We went on scene where the vessel had beached itself and took photos of the vessel which are attached to this report. NCFR sprayed foam in the vessel twice along with water and the vessel continued to burn due to there being 60-90 gallons of diesel fuel on board. NCFR finally determined that putting sand in the vessel would help to contain the fire which they proceeded to do. 


BARDID: FL-2023-0517
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-08-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:00:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Gulf of Mexico
NearestCityTown: HUDSON
County: PASCO
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Equipment failure
EquipmentFailure: Auxiliary
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
RedactedNarrative:
On August 14, 2023, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) was contacted by FWC Lt. in reference to an overdue boater.  I was informed OP1 was last seen on August 13, 2023, at approximately 11:00 AM launching his vessel for a fishing expedition in the Gulf of Mexico.  OP1’s family filed a missing persons report with New Port Richey Police Department on August 14, 2023, when he had not returned. FWC, USCG, and Pasco County Sheriff’s Department started search efforts by air and sea on August 14, 2023.  USCG air observed a vessel approximately 8.5 miles west of Hudson beach at approximately 6:30 PM on August 14, 2023.  The vessel was confirmed to be OP1’s vessel.  A search of the vessel revealed OP1 was not on board.

Pasco County Sheriff’s Marine unit towed the vessel to Hudson Beach boat ramp.  An inventory of the vessel revealed there was no GPS electronic equipment onboard that could aid in search efforts for OP1.  USCG and FWC air and water units continued search efforts until 9:30 PM on August 16, 2023.  At the time of this report OP1 has not been found.


BARDID: FL-2023-0518
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-11-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 00:05:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Boca Ciega Bay
NearestCityTown: LARGO
County: PINELLAS
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Missing or inadequate navigation aids
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
RedactedNarrative:
On 11/7/2023, V1 was operating in the intracoastal waterway South of John R Bonner Nature Park in Largo, Florida.  While traveling South it struck a partially submerged channel marker causing damage greater than $2,000.  No injuries were reported and no other vessels were involved in this collision.
Accident
At approximately 0005 hours  (11/7/2023)  V1 struck a partially submerged channel marker (marker 38).  
Post-Accident
OP1 did not sustain any injuries.  V1 sustained fiberglass cracks to the bow, hull and front portion of the starboard side.  There are multiple scratches on the front portion of the starboard side.  The rubrail on the front of the starboard side also popped off.  The damage was estimated at $3,000.  United States Coast Guard was notified of this damaged channel marker.
Conclusion 
Based on interviews, assessment of the damage, and information gathered to date.  This accident was caused due to a partially submerged object that would be very difficult to see at night.   Based on the circumstances surrounding the accident, no charges were filed.


BARDID: FL-2023-0519
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:30:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Upper Manatee River
NearestCityTown: BRADENTON
County: MANATEE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
RedactedNarrative:
On Saturday, July 15, 2023, at approximately 1942 hours Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) Officers responded to a double vessel incident that occurred in Manatee River near Mill Creek Road, located in Manatee County. The area is posted as a Slow Speed / Minimal Wake zone. One subject was onboard a 2020, 11’ Bombardier personal watercraft (V1) that was traveling west on plane while navigating a bend. 

Two subjects were onboard a 1989, 11’ Feather Craft boat (V2) that was traveling east at slow speed. Both unknowingly approached the other from opposing directions. V1’s bow struck V2's bow head on. 

V1 ramped over V2 striking both occupants. The operator of V2 suffered severe injuries and was transported to the hospital for treatment. The passenger of V2 suffered severe injuries and was pronounced deceased at the scene. 

Deceased received multiple lacerations and abrasions to his head and chest. The District 12 Medical Examiner’s Office concluded that he died from a blunt force head injury (Basial Skull Fracture) . The injuries were consistent with him being seated in the front passenger seat of V2. He was struck by V1's bow and keel. He was treated for the injuries at the scene and pronounced deceased by Manatee County Fire Rescue at the scene. He was not wearing a personal flotation device at the time of the accident and knew how to swim. 

Operator2 received a moderate head injury with a concussion. He also received numerous contusions to the right side of his body. His injuries were noted during Tampa General Hospital examination and were consistent with him sitting on the starboard side of the stern while facing toward the port side of V2. He was struck by V1 at the time of the collision. He was ejected into the Manatee River and was found floating face down in the water shortly after the collision. He was administered CPR at the scene and later transported to Tampa General Hospital where he was admitted. He was not wearing a personal flotation device at the time of the accident and knew how to swim.


BARDID: FL-2023-0520
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-03-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:44:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: C9 CANAL
NearestCityTown: MIAMI
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
RedactedNarrative:
On Sunday, March 12, 2023, at 2044 hours, V1 was operated eastbound on the C9 canal. V1 operator went under the S State Rd 7 bridge. The operator's head impacted the bridge’s westernmost concrete crossmember. The operator was transported to Aventura Hospital and on Friday, March 17, 2023 succumbed to his injuries. TOP OF SKULL SHATTERED, MULTIPLE FACIAL FRACTURES, CERVICAL FRACTURED


BARDID: FL-2023-0521
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-11-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:00:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Biscayne Bay
NearestCityTown: MIAMI BEACH
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Restricted vision
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On November 11, 2023, at approximately 7:00 PM, I, Officer Santiago Mosquera from the Fish and Wildlife Conservations Commission, was on uniform water patrol with Officer when our duty officer notified me of a vessel accident. The accident involved a solo vessel with no injuries reported. The Miami Beach Police Department (MBPD) had already responded to the accident and requested an FWC officer to respond to the location. 

According to the information gathered operator was navigating south on Maloy Channel, just south of Julia Turtle Causeway, when a cushion from the front of his vessel flew towards him and momentarily obstructed his view. 

This caused the vessel to hit a channel marker, sending Operator overboard from the starboard side while the vessel continued moving forward. As a result of the vessel hitting the channel marker, the vessel turned left and looped around, heading north parallel to the seawall, where the vessel struck a dock and came to rest.  

he mentioned that he had suffered a contusion on his right leg and right section of his hip. However, Operator stated that did not needed to go to the hospital.


BARDID: FL-2023-0522
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-10-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 08:00:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Largo Sound
NearestCityTown: KEY LARGO
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Steering
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel was traveling through North sound creek when it lost steering and impacted the Mangrove trees. 
On 10/28/2023, vessel a 26-foot Key West departed Florida Bay club. The vessel left the dock at approximately 0730. The vessel then traveled through Marvin D Adams waterway headed east towards the ocean. The vessel was occupied by four individuals including the operator. According to written and verbal statements the vessel was traveling North through North sound Creek. The vessel was traveling approximately 30 miles per hour when the vessel lost steering. The vessel then took a hard starboard turn and exited the channel. Once the vessel was outside the channel the vessel began to ramp over mangrove trees for approximately 70 feet. The vessel came to rest I on top of the mangrove trees and roots. 
I responded to the call and located the vessel still in the mangroves shortly after the accident was reported. The vessel and the occupants declined medical attention when asked. The occupants walked to the tow boat where I gathered information and collected statements. Photos of the vessel were taken. I continued investigating the incident while back at Florida Bay club’s dock. I collected the additional information needed to complete the report. I returned to the vessel and took additional photographs of the vessel and damage. During this time, I saw minor damage to the vessel. The damage was consistent with impacting the mangrove trees. Scrapes and minor gouges were located on the bow and sides of the vessel. The vessel anchor was bent, and pulpit or anchor guard was slightly off center. The vessel was removed from the mangroves by commercial salvage.


BARDID: FL-2023-0523
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-10-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:50:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Elosie-Lulu canal
NearestCityTown: WINTER HAVEN
County: POLK
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: People on gunwale, bow, or transom
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On Saturday October 7th, 2023, a 20ft ski boat was traveling through a canal, in Winter Haven, that connects Lake Lulu to Lake Eloise. Several occupants had been standing on the side of vessel and on the center-mounted engine cover, holding onto the wake-board tower. At approximately 5:50 pm the vessel sped towards the West Lake Eloise Drive Bridge. All but one of the occupants was able to avoid striking the bridge. That occupant was struck in the face by the bridge, causing serious, disfiguring injuries to her face. The vessel went to a nearby boat ramp where the injured occupant was treated by EMS and transported to the hospital.
Victim: Admitted to Lakeland Regional Hospital ICU.

“The Ski Centurion was heading east through Lake Lulu towards Lake Eloise on its way to Lake Winterset. The vessel was cruising  with seven people on board. The water was calm and there was a light breeze. As the vessel approached the Eloise-Lulu Canal, OP1 was in actual physical control. Several of the occupants on the Ski Centurion, including the operator had been consuming alcohol. As they approached the canal, a Polk County Idle Speed Zone sign and bridge clearance marker were visible. Several occupants were standing on the sides of vessel and on the center-mounted engine cover, holding onto the wake-board tower..”


BARDID: FL-2023-0524
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-08-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:50:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Sexton Cove
NearestCityTown: KEY LARGO
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Sharp turn
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On August 12, 2023, at approximately 1445 hours., the owner/operator was operating a 38’ Cigar power boat, hereafter referred to in this report as V-1. V-1 was traveling on plane in Sexton Cove, Key Largo on a south by southwest heading. The operator was in control of V-1 with approximately 11 occupants onboard. While traveling south into Sexton Cove the vessel made a hard left turn and ejected all of the people on board (POB) into the water at a speed of approximately 35 to 45 miles per hour. All of the POB were recovered from the water by a witness vessel (V-2) and nearby two jet-skis (V-3, V-4). 

The vessel was recovered and brought back to his residence. Several occupants sustained injuries.  

Victim1 sustained a minor hernia in her abdominal area and slight bruising and neck pain. Her neck was in a C collar on at the hospital. She was released same day.    

Victim2 was taken to Mariners Hospital in Tavernier and was there from approximately 1600-2020 hours. She explained that she had scans taken of her head and abdominal area. She described the following injuries: bruise in the middle of her neck, bruising/ache on her right side from the shoulder blades to spine, and possible a mild concussion. She was transferred to Jackson South in Miami-Dade for further diagnosis. At Jackson South, a CT scan was conducted on her head, with negative results. She received medication for pain management. She was released at approximately 0030 hours on August 13th.  

Victim3 had bruising on her right bicep as a result of the incident. She did not seek medical attention. 

Victim4 sustained bruising to his abdomen. He was released the same day shortly after being admitted.

Victim5 was medically assessed as sustaining a head injury by EMS after being involved in a boating accident. She was transported by ambulance from the location to a link up location for a Trauma Star Helicopter in Key Largo and then transported to Jackson South Medical Center in Miami. During follow-on interview, she explained that she sustained a minor head injury, but CT scans taken at the hospital were negative for a concussion. She sustained facial bruising to her: upper left eye, right cheek, and jaw area. She also sustained bruising to her lower left leg.    

Victim6 was transported to Mariners Hospital via ambulance for medical assessment after the accident for possible head injury. FWC Officers were able to talk to her at the hospital and she was conscious and verbal.  Attempts to contact her by phone for follow-up and injury assessment have been unsuccessful.  ; 


BARDID: FL-2023-0525
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-11-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:00:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Matanzas River
NearestCityTown: ST. AUGUSTINE
County: SAINT JOHNS
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was undocking and struck stationary, unmanned V2's port side hull.  V2 was secured on top of the transom of docked, manned V3. The force of the impact traveleved through V2 and damaged the transom area of V3 which V2 was resting on. V1 then struck the dock causing damage. 

As he was undocking his vessel, he misjudged the tide and wind and attempted to maneuver a left turn causing a collision with docked V2/V3 then with the marina dock. It was unknown the total cost of the damages to V3, and there was no apparent, reportable damages to V2 besides some paint, fiberglass transfer on its port side, inflatable hull.


BARDID: FL-2023-0526
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-08-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:03:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: East Lake Toho
NearestCityTown: ST. CLOUD
County: OSCEOLA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Person departed vessel
CoordinatesConfidence: C
RedactedNarrative:
On Sunday, August 13, 2023, at approximately 1800 hours, operator launched his vessel (V-1) from East Lake Tohopekaliga (Toho) in St. Cloud, Osceola County, Florida. Operator1 was the operator of V-1, and had four adult occupants on board. V-1 headed southeast for a recreational cruise. At approximately 1830 hours, Operator1 put V-1 in neutral and the victim jumped overboard to swim. 

It became apparent to Operator1 that Victim was struggling in the water. Operator1 jumped overboard to rescue Victim, but was unsuccessful.  Another occupant on board the vessel threw a rope to assist.  Victim did not resurface, and Operator1 called 911. A search was conducted by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) patrol, St. Cloud Police Department (SCPD) marine units, Osceola County Sheriff’s Office (OSCO) marine and aviation units with no success.  

On Monday, August 14, 2023, at approximately 0825 hours, Victim was found deceased in the water in proximity of the incident site by the OCSO’s aviation unit. 

See attached complete investigative report for further details.

Victim was recovered approximately 440 feet northwest of where the 911 call was made (cell phone ping). Victim was not wearing any type of lifejacket when he was recovered. The autopsy report (ME23-1631) from the Orange County Medical Examiner’s Office list the cause of death as ‘drowning’, and the manner of death as ‘accident’. Also listed as other significant conditions contributing to death is “Dilated cardiomyopathy”.


BARDID: FL-2023-0527
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-10-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:33:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Atlantic Ocean
NearestCityTown: FORT PIERCE
County: SAINT LUCIE
WaterConditions: Rough
HazardousWaters: Y
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Weather
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On October 28th, 2023, at approximately 3:30 PM, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), was dispatched to a vessel incident involving two individuals that were unable to get back onto their personal watercraft (PWC) at Fort Pierce Inlet. Upon arrival to an agency vessel, we were notified by United States Coast Guard that the subjects were onshore with one being transported by Emergency Medical Services (EMS) to Lawnwood Regional Hospital. During my investigation, both individuals advised that they were knocked from their PWCs due to wave conditions. Water conditions at the time included strong tidal current and 4–6-foot surf with 15-25 MPH winds. ; OP1 was recommended by Emergency Medical Services (EMS) to be evaluated by Lawnwood Regional. OP1 was transported to Lawnwood Regional Hospital, admitted, and shortly released by medical professionals at Lawnwood Regional Hospital


BARDID: FL-2023-0528
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-09-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:20:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Atlantic
NearestCityTown: KEY LARGO
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
RedactedNarrative:
RP was interviewed, and a sworn written statement was collected. At approximately, 9:50 a.m. RP rented OP1 V2 and escorted her to Sharkey’s Sharkbite Grill, ensuring that she arrived safely. RP left the restaurant and OP1. At approximately 12:06 p.m., RP received a phone call from OP1 regarding V2 not starting. OP1 attempted to start and navigate V2 southeast through Port Largo Canal. RP met up with OP1 approximately 100 yards south of Sharkey’s Sharkbite Grill to assist her. RP attempted to start the V2 with no success. RP’s first observations yielded no findings or damages, and OP1 was taken back to the marina with no incident. RP hip towed V2 back to Atlantis Boat rental, where it was moored to a private dock. RP analyzed V2 a second time. Puncture and impact damages to the engine cowling and internal mechanical components could be observed. When the engine cowling was removed, the belt and its tensioners were broken and damaged. Additionally, scrape transfer marks as well as fiberglass gouge damage could be observed on the hull of V2, signifying contact with hard-bottom substrate during its operation. Damages were photographed, documented, and will be added to the incident summery report. OP1 was called, and a phone interview was initiated regarding the vessel incident. Throughout the interview, OP1 communicated that she was unaware of any damages and did not hit any objects during her operation of the V2. OP1 did not observe anyone striking V2 while she was at Sharkey’s Sharkbite Grill. She only called RP after she began having problems starting the engine. 
On 9/28/2023, at approximately 10:00 a.m., RP arrived at boat rental and observed V2 approximately fifty percent submerged underwater. Pictures were collected, documented, and will be added to the incident summery report.


BARDID: FL-2023-0529
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-10-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 00:00:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Fort Pierce Inlet
NearestCityTown: FORT PIERCE
County: SAINT LUCIE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Poor
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Improper anchoring
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
One boat dragged anchor and struck another boat that was at anchor inside the Fort Pierce Inlet. 
I arrived on scene and contacted the owner/ operator of vessel 1. He explained the following in essence. He was anchored between the South Causeway Beach and channel marker 15.  Between midnight and 0030 hours, he was awakened by the sound of his anchor chain rubbing something metal. He discovered that vessel 2 had dragged anchor causing their anchors to become intertwined. This caused vessel 2’s starboard side to strike and pin against vessel 1’s port side. 
Vessel 1 sustained minor cosmetic scratches and broke the guard rail cable on the port side. Tow Boat US responded to the scene to assist in pulling the vessels apart. OP1 had to cut away his anchor so Tow Boat US could pull him away from Vessel 2. While being pulled away, Vessel 1 spun and struck Vessel 2. Vessel 1 struck their starboard side to vessel 2’s starboard side. This caused damage to Vessel 1’s front guard rail, the starboard guard rail, and starboard guard rail post. Vessel 2 sustained minor cosmetic damage to their starboard side from the incident. Approximately $4500.00 worth of damage occurred between the vessels over the course of the incident. Vessel 1 was able to re anchor with the assistance of Tow Boat Us. A friend of vessel 2’s owner responded and was able to re-anchor vessel 2.
Nobody was on vessel 2 during the incident. I made phone contact with the owner and explained what had occurred. I photographed the damage to both vessels. This concludes my involvement in the investigation.


BARDID: FL-2023-0531
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-11-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Inland- adjacent to Haulover S
NearestCityTown: MIAMI
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Improper anchoring
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was improperly anchored, tried to reposition and then drifted/collided into V2.

V1 was attempting to anchor on the west side of Sandspur Island. Due to improper anchoring, V1 began drifting southwest at approximately 5-10 mph and struck the bow/starboard corner of V2. There were no injuries on either vessel. The owner of V2 stated she could not give an estimate of the damage due to the bottom hull of the vessel not being visible.


BARDID: FL-2023-0532
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-10-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:00:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Ponce Inlet
NearestCityTown: PORT ORANGE
County: VOLUSIA
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Improper anchoring
AccidentCause2: Sharp turn
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On Tuesday, October 24th, 2023 at approximately 1800 hrs, OP1 and two passengers were fishing in the vicinity of Disappearing Island, Ponce Inlet, FL. All three subjects were onboard a white 16-foot Carolina Skiff bearing Florida Registration. The owner was not onboard at the time of the accident. While attempting to anchor the vessel, the vessel's prop became entangled in the anchor line, causing the vessel to turn sharply astern. All three occupants were ejected. All subject were rescued by USCG at approximately 1815 hrs with no injuries. 
Accident Analysis:
Pre-Accident (Collision):
At approximately 1745 hrs, OP1 and two passengers were onboard Florida vessel fishing in the vicinity of the Disappearing Island and Ponce Inlet in Ponce Inlet, FL. At some point, while attempting to anchor at a new fishing spot, the vessel became tangled in the anchor line due to the wind and current.   
Accident:
At approximately 1750 hrs, the vessel’s propeller became entangled in the anchor line. When the slack in the line tightened, it pulled on the stern of the vessel, causing the vessel to turn abruptly. This movement ejected all three passengers and caused the vessel to take on water and ultimately capsize.
Post-Accident:
A concerned bystander called in the accident at approximately 1800 hrs. USCG arrived a few moments later and were able to retrieve all three passengers with no issue. No injuries were sustained by either party. All three subjects were brought to the Coast Guard Station, where I was able to take a report. At approximately 1900 hrs, we escorted the subjects to the Lighthouse marina located in Ponce Inlet. The owner had agreed to meet them their to retrieve both them and the vessel. At approximately 1900 as well, Sea Tow took possession of the vessel. 
Conclusion:
Based on evidence gathered to date, this accident occurred due to equipment failure and weather conditions. Though the wind and current were moderate, the vessel had been anchored with too long of a line, causing the slack to catch on the propeller. When the anchor line went taught, it caused the vessel to violently adjust, ejecting all three passengers before taking on water and ultimately capsizing.


BARDID: FL-2023-0533
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-09-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:55:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: gulf of mexico
NearestCityTown: HOLIDAY
County: PASCO
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
RedactedNarrative:
On 9/23/23, V1 was heading east on the Anclote River. V1 was observed by Pasco SO and USCG operating carelessly, which resulted in the vessel striking a day marker.  The operator of V1 showed indicators of impairment.  The operator was arrested for boating under the influence. 
Accident
A member of the USCG observed the listed vessel allide with a day marker. As a result of the allision the vessel sustained damage to the mid-starboard section (See attachments).  
Post-Accident
The operator and his occupants were escorted to the Anclote Park Boat Ramp. No injuries were sustained to the operator or his occupants. The vessel was recovered by the co-owner of the vessel.  
Conclusion
Based on interviews, assessment of the damage, and information gathered to date:   The operator of V1  operated his vessel in a negligent manner.  OP1’s normal faculties were impaired beyond safe operation of a vessel, which caused him to have poor judgment and to react too slowly to avoid allision with a fixed object.  Alcohol and unsafe speeds were contributing factors.


BARDID: FL-2023-0534
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-10-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:30:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: TSALA APOPKA CHAIN
NearestCityTown: INVERNESS
County: CITRUS
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Based on physical evidence, a first on scene witness statement, and relevant facts, on Wednesday October 4th, at approximately 1930 hours, V-1 (airboat) was traveling SE in a canal East of Hernando Lake when it stuck an unknown object. The operator was ejected from his seat and found unconscious on the front deck of the airboat. The operator was the only occupant and sustained injuries to his head, neck, and right leg. The operator was unable to write a written statement, so a verbal statement was recorded in the hospital using an agency issued body worn camera. Injuries were documented with photos attached to the report. Upon being ejected from the seat of his airboat, the operator sustained a contusion and laceration to the right side of his head, scratches to the right ear and right side of his neck, and scratches and a large contusion to his upper right leg.


BARDID: FL-2023-0535
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-10-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 07:30:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: GULF OF MEXICO
NearestCityTown: PANAMA CITY BEACH
County: BAY
WaterConditions: Rough
HazardousWaters: Y
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was westnound on autopilot and the portside bow struck V2 at its midship starboard side, causing damage to the exterior of both vessels.  
	At approximately 0720 Hrs, OP1 was operating vessel (Vessel 1 or V1), a 1999 55' white Tiara cabin motorboat. Also on board was PAX 1. V1 was westbound approximately 2 miles offshore from St. Andrews State Park. 
	OP1 stated he was behind the wheel, but the vessel was on autopilot, and he and Mr. PAX 1 were attempting to fix a mechanical issue with the helm latch. Mr. OP1 stated that they were parallel with another vessel. In the process of attempting to fix the helm latch with V1 one autopilot, V1 came into contact with Vessel 2 (V2), a 35' Bertrum cabin motorboat, blue in color.
	The port side bow of V1 struck the midship starboard side of V2, causing visual damage to both vessels. Both vessels sustained damage to their rubrails and fiberglass damage to the hull integrity, on their respective points of impact.
	V2 was being operated by OP2. V2 is a charter vessel, and OP2 had customers on board. OP2 stated he was trolling in a straight line when he heard one of his customers yell "watch out". He turned to his right and saw V1 off his starboard side. OP2 "cranked the wheel" to port, as to avoid more damage.
	Also aboard V2 was PAX 2, 3 and 4. PAX 2 stated that V1 was approaching at a high rate of speed before the collision, and did not see anyone at the helm, and dove to the opposite side gunnel out of fear of V1 coming on top of him. PAX 3 also stated that he saw V1 incoming, and stood up and moved to the other side of the vessel from where the impact was going to occur. PAX 4 was inside the cabin of V2. PAX 4 saw V1 incoming from approx. 150-200 yards out. He told the captain about V1 but no loud enough for the captain to hear. PAX 4 observed V1 not turning and on a course to impact V2 and started "hollering", then the captain (OP2), took a hard port turn as to not get hit by V1 more broadside


BARDID: FL-2023-0536
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-10-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:39:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: St Johns River
NearestCityTown: DE BARY
County: VOLUSIA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
My investigation revealed that V1 was operated by OP1 at idle speed approaching the dock, V2 was moored to dock on V1’s port side unoccupied, and V3 was moored two slips to the north and unoccupied.  V1 struck the wooden dock with the bow of the vessel causing no damage to the vessel and a small indention on the wooden dock.  The operator then put the vessel in reverse and over corrected.  The operator was unable to stop the vessel prior to it striking V2.  V1 continued and struck the engine and stern area of V3.


BARDID: FL-2023-0537
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-09-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:38:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Offshore St. Augustine Inlet
NearestCityTown: VILLANO BEACH
County: SAINT JOHNS
WaterConditions: Very rough
HazardousWaters: Y
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Steering
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent3: Sinking
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was sailing south from Fernandina Georgia to St. Augustine Florida under sail. D1 stated that the auto pilot stopped working. While attempting to reboot the system he got close to the North Shoal of the St. Augustine Inlet. A wave pushed V1 onto the sandbar where the rudder was damaged making steering difficult and making a breach in the hull. V1 changed course to the southeast and dewatering pumps were utilized with little success. The operator and two passengers were removed from the vessel. The vessel's anchor was set and sank to the southeast of St. Augustine Inlet.


BARDID: FL-2023-0538
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-10-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:22:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Intra Coastal Waterway
NearestCityTown: WEST PALM BEACH
County: PALM BEACH
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
V1 struck the bow of V2 and V3 with its Starboard side causing damage to each vessel, and eventually coming to rest against V2 and V3. 

V1 caused damage to the pulpit and anchor of V2, and damage to the anchor of V3. V1 also caused damage to the Sailfish Marina dock. V1 had extensive damage to its hull and railing. 

Vessel 1 (V1) a 75 foot Hooks Yacht and Marine was heading East on the Intra Coastal Waterway from Palm Beach Inlet into Sailfish Marina docks in Riviera Beach, FL. V1 continued East and was pulled by the current into Vessel 2 (V2), an 86 foot Merrits Boats and Eng Wk. and Vessel 3 (V3) a 92 foot Viking Yacht Co. which were both facing North in the Sailfish Marina dock.

V1 struck the bow of V2 and V3 with its Starboard side causing damage to each vessel, and eventually coming to rest against V2 and V3 resulting from getting pulled South by the current. V1 caused damage to the pulpit and anchor of V2, and damage to the anchor of V3. V1 also caused damage to the Sailfish Marina dock. V1 had extensive damage to its hull and railing. 

V1 was eventually pulled off V2 and V3 by two SeaTow vessels and docked on a Sailfish Marina slip.


BARDID: FL-2023-0539
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-09-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:18:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: bay
NearestCityTown: PANAMA CITY BEACH
County: BAY
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Equipment failure
AccidentCause2: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
EquipmentFailure: Auxiliary
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Sinking
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel taking on water eventually sinks. It was determined the reason for the vessel sinking was a towel that became wrapped in the propeller shaft. As a consequence the it tore the shaft seal along with other hoses allowing water to come into the engine compartment. 
Once on scene, we realized the vessel had taken so much water it had actually sunk. The owner, and only occupant of the vessel, was safe and unharmed and on the USCG vessel. After speaking to the owner, later identified as OP1, he advised he was having engine problems, and that he thought it might be the raw water cooling system that ultimately led to the vessel taking on water. He advised he had gone to fuel up but that soon after the vessel began taking on water. He said he immediately put his life jacket on and called for help. Given the USCG was just across the bay, they arrived within minutes, however, their water pump failed. Having been unsuccessful at removing the water from the vessel, the vessel continued to take on water until it ultimately sunk. OP1 advised that the vessel went down at a surprising speed and that at that point there was nothing that could be done.
OP1 advised the vessel had been getting work done at Panhandle Marina and it was getting an engine replaced. But to his surprise, it was the other engine compartment that was taking on water. OP1 called Sea Tow so that they could float the vessel and tow it back to Panhandle Marina.


BARDID: FL-2023-0540
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-10-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:00:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW
NearestCityTown: ST. AUGUSTINE
County: SAINT JOHNS
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
RedactedNarrative:
V1 WAS LEAVING CITY MARINA. V1 DID NOT ACCOUNT FOR THE STRONG CURRENT. V1 PORT STERN STRUCK THE FUEL DOCK OFFICE CAUSING AN 8 FOOT LONG BY 8 INCHE TALL GASH TO THE FIBERGLASS.

OP1 said that while he was departing City Marina the wind and strong current pushed the port stern into the marina office. OP1 showed me the damage on the port side approximately six feet above the water line, there was an eight foot long by eight-inch-high gash in the fiberglass. Fiberglass shards were located on the aft end deck as well.  OP1 provided a written statement and provided all documents needed. 

We went back to City Marina and went to the fuel dock by water to see the damage to the marina office. The south end of the marina’s office has a metal platform that showed damage consistent with the damage. The metal structure had been pushed sideways and several of the boards on top of the structure had been pushed out of place.


BARDID: FL-2023-0541
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-10-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:15:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Eustis
NearestCityTown: TAVARES
County: LAKE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Throttle
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was attempting to load onto the trailer when it encountered a mechanical failure.  V1 jumped suddenly and collided wit two other vessels before coming to rest.  V2 and V3 sustained minor damage.  No Injuries were reported. 
V1 was operated by OP1.  OP1 explained he and PAX 1 were repairing V1 and attempting to take it off the water when a throttle linkage disconnected from the throttle causing the vessel to jump forward.  OP1 explained he attempted to get the vessel out of gear several times by switching from forward to reverse but it continued to jump until he was able to cut power to the vessel. 
PAX 1, passenger on V1, explained the situation next and confirmed the vessel suddenly jumped forward while trying to load the vessel onto the trailer. He explained OP1 began shifting back and forth in an attempt to get the vessel back under control.


BARDID: FL-2023-0542
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-10-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:00:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: PETTY CREEK
NearestCityTown: HOMOSASSA
County: CITRUS
WaterConditions: Calm
HazardousWaters: Y
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
RedactedNarrative:
On October 14, 2023 between 09:30 and 10:00 hours, a vessel (2001 23' Carolina Skiff, Open Motorboat) was being operated by the owner Southbound on Petty Creek at approximately 20-25 MHP when he struck a solid submerged object. This impact caused the motor to be forced upward where the front of the cowling was damaged by hitting the rear deck of the vessel. There was damage to the lower unit of the motor, the stainless steel propeller was misshaped, and the propeller shaft was bent during the incident. There was no visible damage to the fiberglass/hull of the vessel.
Owner/Operator advised that the weather was clear, water was calm, the tide was outgoing, the water depth was lower than usual, and there were no other external or mechanical factors that led to the collision.
OP1 brought the vessel to Homosassa Marine for repair, who I contacted and was informed that a this time the quote for repair is $4431.00, unless they find more damage while working on the vessel.


BARDID: FL-2023-0543
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-10-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Seddon Channel
NearestCityTown: TAMPA
County: HILLSBOROUGH
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause3: Excessive speed
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentEvent3: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
On 10/28/2023 V1 was heading south in the Seddon Channel. .  At approximately 1200 hrs V1 hit an unknown vessels wake and collided with the Seddon Channel seawall. The operator and occupant  of V1 sustained injuries.  Both occupant and operator  transported themselves  to Tampa General for treatment. 

Accident

At approximately 1200 hrs, V1 hit the wake of an unknown vessel and  collided with the Seddon Channel seawall. As a result of the collision the operator of V1 crashed into the steering wheel of the vessel and sustained injuries. The occupant of the vessel also sustained injuries from colliding with a compartment of the vessel. V1 sustained damage to the deck and starboard bow section as well as the hull of the vessel. V1 began to take on water. 

Post-Accident

The operator of V1 transported himself and the occupant  to Tampa General Hospital. Operator and the occupant both sustained injuries. V1 was recovered by Tampa Police Department and towed to Marjorie Park Yacht Basin. From there, V1 was transported by Sea Tow and towed to the Davis Island Boat Ramp.

Conclusion
Based on interviews, assessment of the damage, and information gathered to date.  The operator of V1 (Operator) failed to have proper look out.  The operator made an attempt to take action to avoid collision but was unable to make the maneuver fast enough to avoid collision. Inexperience and unsafe speeds were contributing factors in this accident.

Occupant2:Laceration on right side above eyebrow  Bruising on the face and knees ; operator: facial laceration Closed fracture of the right orbit Closed nasal bone fracture


BARDID: FL-2023-0544
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-10-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:30:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: black creek
NearestCityTown: GREEN COVE SPRINGS
County: CLAY
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
Operator struck his own wake and collided with branches and trees.

On 10/25/2023 at approximately 5:30pm,  the operator of vessel was riding his personal watercraft (PWC) westbound in Black Creek. He turned 180 degrees and accelerated to approximately 20 miles per hour. He struck the wake he had created, lost control and collided with branches and trees lining the bank of the creek. He was able to slowly make his way back to the ramp as his PWC was taking on water. When I arrived I performed a vessel inspection. OP1 had not taken a boating safety class which is required for anyone born after January 1, 1988 and operating a vessel with 10 horsepower or greater. I also found 5 other issues relating to safety equipment. I issued OP1 1 citation for F.S.S. 327.395(1) Operation of vessel without complying with boat education law.


BARDID: FL-2023-0545
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-11-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:06:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: caxambas pass
NearestCityTown: MARCO ISLAND
County: COLLIER
WaterConditions: Rough
HazardousWaters: Y
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On 11/4/2023 at 1205 pm, I was dispatched to a boating accident that occurred at the southern point of Marco Island at Caxamabas Pass.  Due to my location at the time and weather conditions, I had a delayed response time.  
Weather conditions and tides were NE strong winds, 18 to 22 knots. Seas were NNE, 3 ft at 4 seconds. The tide had just come off slack and was now incoming.
Dispatch advised that the reporting party was taking an injured person back to their dock at the Eagle Cay condos and EMS was already positioned to meet them there.
I arrived at approximately 1250 pm and EMS was just loading the injured party into their vehicle and transporting the injured party to NCH Downtown Naples.
I met with the owner/operator of the vessel and he explained that as they left the dock area and canal the water was dead calm and as they went out of Caxamabas Pass to turn in a northerly direction, a series of waves hit the boat and it sent the injured party, that was sitting on the bow, into the air.  When she came back down she landed on the hard step leading up to the bow and was immediately in severe pain.  OP1 stated that they immediately called 911 and slowly started making way back to the dock.  He also stated that the vessel was going "about 10mph."
I then photographed the vessel and proceeded to NCH Hospital in downtown Naples.
When I arrived, I met with Spouse of injured party and passenger on the vessel in the emergency room.  Victim was in a severe amount of pain while hospital staff were taking her to a CT scan.  Spouse stated the same things that OP1 did about what had happened. Spouse then filled out a sworn written statement. 
Once hospital staff had given VICTIM some pain medication, she was able to speak with me and she stated the water was calm and then when they turned north that the next thing she knew she was airborne and came back down on the boat and was in immediate pain.  She stated that the boat wasn't going anymore than 10mph.  The MD came in and advised VICTIM that she had a "compression spinal fracture of the T10."  Due to VICTIMs injury and the pain medication given, I did not get a written statement from her.
OP1  and his wife that was a passenger in the vessel, arrived at the hospital shortly after and I met them in the ER lobby.  SUbject also stated the same thing as Spouse and OP1.  I had PAX 2 and OP1 complete sworn written statements and cleared the scene.
End of Report
VICTIM :Subject was sitting on the bow of the vessel when a wave approximately 3ft in height sent her into the air.  When she came back down, she landed on the step leading up the bow.  This caused a compression fracture of her spine.


BARDID: FL-2023-0547
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-10-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:32:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Newnans Lake
NearestCityTown: GAINESVILLE
County: ALACHUA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Sharp turn
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
CoordinatesConfidence: C
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was traveling in a southwest direction on Newnans Lake in open water when the operator stated he believed the vessel may have struck another boat’s wake which caused V1 to enter a sharp turn to port. 

Both occupants of the vessel were ejected into the water during this sharp turn and were not wearing personal flotation devices. The outboard engine kill switch was not in use and the stick steer vessel entered the circle of death for approximately 42 minutes. 

The operator received lacerations to both feet from the V1 skeg and propeller as he attempted to reenter the vessel on three occasions as V1 passed close by. 

The operator eventually reentered V1 on the fourth try and regained control. The operator was able to locate the other occupant who was face down in the water and unresponsive. See ISR 108876 for detailed narrative. The deceased victim had no visible injuries on subject. See ISR 108896 pending autopsy report release.


BARDID: FL-2023-0548
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-11-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:33:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Gulf of Mexico
NearestCityTown: PORT RICHEY
County: PASCO
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Other
OtherAccidentEvent: Person tangled in vsl equipmen
RedactedNarrative:
While at crusing speed, the victims hair became entagled in the alternator belt of V1. The victim's seat was mounted in such a way that it was within close proximity to V1's motor. The resulting injury was a laceration to the head needing 4 staples.; Victim's hair became entagled in the motor of V1. Resulting injury was a laceration to the head requiring 4 staples.


BARDID: FL-2023-0549
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-10-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:00:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Fort Pierce Inlet
NearestCityTown: FORT PIERCE
County: SAINT LUCIE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: People on gunwale, bow, or transom
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
RedactedNarrative:
While placing an anchor pole on the starboard stern of a vessel. The occupant fell overboard lacerating his left calf. ; . While placing an anchor pole on the starboard stern of a vessel. The operator fell overboard, lacerating his left calf.


BARDID: FL-2023-0550
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-11-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:00:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Apalachee Bay
NearestCityTown: CRAWFORDVILLE
County: WAKULLA
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Sinking
RedactedNarrative:
On November 3, 2023, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), followed up with a boating accident that happened November 1, 2023. The incident came in as a flipped airboat near Aucilla and a Good Samaritan got the operator out of the water and transported the operator to the Lighthouse boat ramp for EMS to pick him up.
After reviewing the call and finding out who the operator was, I was able to locate him and speak to him in person about the incident. The operator was a OP1. OP1 stated that PAX 1 and another airboat operator started their day around 0900 AM and the incident happened around 1600 PM. The incident per OP1 happened west of the lighthouse. OP1 explained that they were fishing, and the wind started to pick up, so he decided to head back to shore. On his way back in his vessel nosedived and took a side sea from the port side of the vessel. He stated the initial nosedive and side sea through PAX1 out of the vessel and bounced him (OP1) around the vessel until he was eventually thrown out as well. The vessel flipped over and eventually sank.
OP1 explained he was still able to make a phone call to OP2 to tell him what happened. OP1 stated he and PAX1 were in the water for nearly an hour before OP2 was able to get them out. When OP2 got them in his vessel to take them back to shore, his vessel ran hot and had to switch them to a third vessel they had anchored. PAX1 operated the third vessel back to the lighthouse, while OP2 stayed with his vessel. EMS met them at the lighthouse, where OP1 was then transported to the hospital.
When I spoke with OP1, he mentioned the incident caused him to have chest pains and he has a history of heart problems. He stated that during the incident he was bruised black and became really cold. He said once at the hospital it took near an hour to finally warm up. This meaning the incident was a boating accident with injury since it was beyond normal first aid. OP1 was discharged from the hospital on November 2, 2023.
After speaking with OP1, I spoke with the others involved (OP2 and PAX1) and all the stories matched. I informed everyone involved that the vessel will still need to be removed. OP2 stated that he was planning to try and get the vessel out with another friend today, November 3, 2023. I told OP2 and OP1 that if they cannot get the vessel out, they will most likely need to call SeaTow to help. I also informed everyone involved I will need to be called when the vessel is removed to take pictures and inspect the damage done to the vessel.
On November 10, 2023, I was able to take pictures of the vessel and inspect the damages done.; OP1 when slammed into the boat suffered some bruising and chest pains. Because of this he was admitted to the hospital.


BARDID: FL-2023-0551
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-10-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:10:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW
NearestCityTown: PENSACOLA
County: ESCAMBIA
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
RedactedNarrative:
On 10/15/23, at approximately 1510 hours, a 43’ Californian CMY trawler, operating westbound on the intracoastal waterway (ICW), struck the east side of the Bob Sikes Fishing Pier. The operator was the only person aboard the vessel. There were no injuries or fatalities.


BARDID: FL-2023-0552
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-11-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:03:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: inlet
NearestCityTown: JACKSONVILLE
County: DUVAL
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
RedactedNarrative:
At approximately 1203 hours on November 18th, 2023, FLorida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), was dispatched to Alamacani Boat Ramp in reference to a vessel that struck the rocks in Ft. George Inlet. 

I asked OP1 what happened with the accident and he stated the following: He pulled up under the bridge and had the boat in idle as he was trying to tie off to a pillar. He stated he was next to the pillar attempting to tie off and he slipped. When he slipped, he fell back onto his seat (which has no back rest) and his legs flew up in the air. When this happened, his knee hit the throttle, throwing the vessel into gear, throwing him off the back of the vessel. He stated the vessel then headed East towards Huguenot Park and made a turn back towards the West, hitting the jetty rocks on the bank launching the vessel into the marsh.


BARDID: FL-2023-0553
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-11-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:15:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: ATLANTIC OCEAN
NearestCityTown: SUNNY ISLES
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Sharp turn
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
RedactedNarrative:
Operator of V1 made sharp turn maneuver and was ejected, causing injury.
When I arrived, I spoked to the livery manager. MANAGER stated that she was in charge of rental operations when the operator of the PWC rented the PWC. MANAGER showed me the rental agreement, waiver, insurance, livery operator certificates for her and her employees, and all other livery safety requirements. MANAGER stated that OP1 rented and began operating the PWC around 1600 hours and rode for approximately 15 minutes. She observed OP1 make a sharp turn maneuver, which caused him to fall overboard and hit his right shoulder on part of the PWC. MANAGER said she and her employees maintain constant visual contact of their customers while operating, and they have at least one employee on another PWC at all times to go out and render assistance immediately. MANAGER and her employee both witnessed the accident, and her employee immediately went to OP1’s location to help him back on the PWC.
	After the accident, OP1 continued to operate the PWC for a few minutes before his rental time was over. When he returned to the beach, OP1 asked MANAGER to look at his right arm and shoulder because it was in pain. MANAGER said the shoulder appeared to be dislocated, so she ran to the nearest lifeguard station to ask for medical attention for OP1. Sunny Isles Beach Ocean Rescue personnel responded to look at OP1’s shoulder but was unable to render proper aid on scene, so they called Miami Dade Fire Rescue. Fire Rescue arrived and transported OP1 to Aventura Hospital Emergency Room. There was no visible damage on the PWC. I obtained a sworn written statement from MANAGER and went to the hospital to speak to OP1.
	At Aventura Hospital, OP1 was already recovering with his right arm and shoulder stabilized in a sling. He did not have any broken bones, only a dislocated shoulder that was treated and stabilized right away. OP1 stated that after he filled out all the paperwork for the rental agreement, MANAGER and the other employees did a very thorough pre-ride instruction before he began operating the PWC. He stated that he made a sharp turn and was ejected from the PWC and hit his right shoulder on the PWC. OP1 said he was only in the water for approximately 30 seconds before the employee was there to assist him back on the PWC. He kept riding for a few minutes before returning to the beach, where MANAGER looked at his shoulder and immediately went to get assistance from rescue personnel. OP1 was unable to provide a written statement due to his dominant arm being stabilized in a sling.; OP1:Dislocated right shoulder. Transported and admitted to Aventura Hospital. Right shoulder/arm stabilized in sling and subject discharged.


BARDID: FL-2023-0554
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-11-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:30:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: GULF OF MEXICO
NearestCityTown: MARATHON
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Hull failure
AccidentCause2: Equipment failure
EquipmentFailure: Auxiliary
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Sinking
RedactedNarrative:
One vessel accident with 2 occupants. No injuries. The vessel began taking on water and sank in 6' of water.
On November 12, 2023, at approximately 1530 hours, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) was on duty in Monroe County, State of Florida. I was in uniform, in a marked patrol vessel, patrolling Boot Key Harbor. I heard a distress call on the VHF radio pertaining to a vessel taking on water with two occupants onboard. I asked dispatch to contact US Coast Guard (USCG) to get details and to plot the location of the vessel. The vessel was sinking approximately a quarter mile northeast of Vaca Cut. I activated my emergency lights and began going in that direction. 
I arrived onscene at 1548. The owner/operator and the occupant were both uninjured and wearing Type II Personal Floatation Devices. The sinking vessel (V1) was roughly 50% submerged. I directed the two subjects to come onto my patrol vessel and V1, a black 22’ Angler, sank immediately afterward and rested on the bottom in approximately 6’ of water. There was a crack in the hull approximately 6’ long and the bottom edge of the starboard side hull, but there was no evidence of V1 impacting anything.
Op1 stated that V1 began to slow down while on plane and when he stopped to investigate the vessel began taking on water from the transom. V1 was being sea-trialed after getting a complete refit, including a new outboard engine and bracket. V1 had been in the water for three days prior to this event.


BARDID: FL-2023-0555
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-09-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:00:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Hot Dog Island
NearestCityTown: FLORAL CITY
County: CITRUS
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was traveling towards Hotdog Island at approximately 70 mph. V1 hit grass patch ejecting the operator out of the vessel as it flipped from stern to bow. V1 proceed to flip from stern to bow once more before settling in the water. Operator 1 was diagnosed with a concussion.


BARDID: FL-2023-0556
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-08-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:30:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Maximo
NearestCityTown: St. Petersburg
County: PINELLAS
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Failure to vent
AccidentCause2: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Ventilation
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
RedactedNarrative:
The operator stated that after refueling and leaving the marina under his own power he stopped to enter GPS coordinates.  He stated that he then turned on the blower in his vessel to vent fumes and turned on the ignition.  It was at this time the operator heard a loud explosion and his boat was almost immediately engulfed in flames.  All five occupants jumped into the water to safety.


BARDID: FL-2023-0557
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-09-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:41:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: HILLSBOROUGH RIVER
NearestCityTown: TAMPA
County: HILLSBOROUGH
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
RedactedNarrative:
THE OPERATOR RENTED THE VESSEL.  THERE WERE THREE OTHER PASSENGERS ON THIS SMALL ELECTRIC RENTAL VEHICLE.  AS THE VESSEL WAS TRAVELING THROUGH GARRISON CHANNEL WITHIN THE HILLSBOROUGH RIVER, THE OPERATOR OF THE VESSEL PUT IN INTO REVERSE.  THIS CAUSED THE VESSEL TO TAKE ON WATER FROM THE STERN.  AS THE VESSEL TOOK ON WATER ALL THE OCCUPANTS STOOD AND THE VESSEL CAPSIZED.  ALL OCCUPANTS WERE WEARING THEIR LIFE JACKETS AND WERE PULLED OUT OF THE WATER TO SAFETY BY TAMPA FIRE RESCUE.


BARDID: FL-2023-0558
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-10-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:39:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: ATLANTIC OCEAN
NearestCityTown: OCEAN RIDGE, FL
County: PALM BEACH
WaterConditions: Choppy
HazardousWaters: Y
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
RedactedNarrative:
VESSEL 1 WAS ENTERING INTO THE BOYNTON INLET ON AN OUTGOING TIDE.  WHILE COMING DOWN THE FACE OF ONE SWELL, THE BOW PIERCED THE BACK OF THE NEXT SWELL IN FRONT CAUSING THE VESSEL TO BE SWAMPED.  V1 THEN ROLLED OVER AND CAPSIZED, PUTTING BOTH OCCUPANTS INTO THE WATER.  THE OPERATOR STAYED WITH HIS VESSEL AS IT DRIFTED OUT TO SEA AND NORTHBOUND.  THE PASSENGER WAS ABLE TO SWIM TO THE NORTH JETTY OF THE INLET WHERE HE EXITED THE WATER.  SEA TOW RESPONDED TO THE CAPSIZED VESSEL AND TOWED IT AWAY FROM THE SCENE.  NO INJURIES WERE REPORTED.


BARDID: FL-2023-0559
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-10-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:26:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: 15th ST CANAL
NearestCityTown: POMPANO BEACH
County: BROWARD
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
VESSEL #1 WAS TRAVELING EASTBOUND ON THE 15th ST CANAL, AND COLLIDED WITH VESSEL #2 WHICH WAS MOORED AT A DOCK.

Detailed report provided by the Sheriff's Office doesn’t give much more information other than the operator of vessel #1 briefly became distracted by one of the passengers ang collided with vessel #2 that was unoccupied and moored at a dock.


BARDID: FL-2023-0560
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-10-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:43:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: ANTLANTIC OCEAN
NearestCityTown: STUART
County: MARTIN
WaterConditions: Rough
HazardousWaters: Y
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
RedactedNarrative:
2016 24' EVERGLADES CENTER CONSOLE CAPSIZED BY LARGE WAVE OFFSHORE WHILE TROLLING/FISHING OFF PECK'S LAKE.  (1) AND ONLY OCCUPANT WAS EJECTED AND SWAM TO SHORE ON THE BEACH SAFELY WITHOUT SUSTAINING ANY INJURIES.  VESSEL TURNED OVER TO TOW BOAT US ON SCENE AND TRANSPORTED BACK TO BOAT RAMP WHERE OWNER DEPARTED FROM.


BARDID: FL-2023-0561
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-11-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 08:30:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: OCEAN
NearestCityTown: BAL HARBOR
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Rough
HazardousWaters: Y
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
RedactedNarrative:
VESSEL #1 WAS TRAVELING WESTBOUND JUST EAST OF THE HAULOVER INLET WHEN HIS PORT ENGINE SHUT OFF.  THE OPERATOR ADVISED HE TRIED TO CONTINUE TO POWER THROUGH THE INLET WITH ONE ENGINE BUT THE VESSEL STARTED TO TAKE ON TOO MUCH WATER.  VESS#1 CAPSIZED AND WAS TOWED TO PELICAN BOAT RAMP BY SEA TOW.
NO INJURIES WERE REPORTED. 

OPERATOR WAS ISSUED CASE NUMBER.


BARDID: FL-2023-0562
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-12-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:35:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: INTRACOSTAL WATERWAY
NearestCityTown: MADERIA BEACH
County: PINELLAS
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
RedactedNarrative:
TWO SEPARATE VESSEL'S WERE FOUND RESPONSIBLE FOR THE WAKE DAMAGE INCURRED TO VESSEL 2 FOR THIS REASON.  TWO VESSEL1'S ARE IDENTIFIED IN THIS REPORT ON DECEMBER 4, 2023, V1 WAS FOLLOWING CLOSE BEHIND V2 SOUTH BOUNE IN THE INTRACOASTAL WATERWAY IN MADEIRA BEACH NEAR CHANNEL MARKER 13.  AS THE VESSELS PROCEEDED SOUTHBOUNT AND APPROCHED THE WELCH CAUSEWAY, THEY VIOLATED THE RESTRICTED AREA SLOW SPEED MINIMUM WAKE ZONE PRECEDING THE BRIDGE.  THE WAKE PRODUCED BY BOTH VESSELS CAUSED DAMAGE TO VESSEL 3, WHICH WAS DOCKED NEAR THE CAUSEWAY. VESSEL 3 HAD APPROXIMATELY 3500 DOLLARS WORTH OF DAMAGE TO THE SWIM PLATFORM AND BOARDING LADDER TO THE VESSEL.  THE INCIDENT WAS WITNESSED BY AN INDEPENDENT 3rd PARTY WITNESS WHO CONFIRMED BOTH VESSEL WERE RESPONSIBLE FOR THE DAMAGE.  THERE WERE NO REPORTED INJURIES.


BARDID: FL-2023-0563
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-10-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:00:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: BOYNTON INLET
NearestCityTown: BOYNTON BEACH, FL
County: PALM BEACH
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Steering
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
RedactedNarrative:
VESSEL COMING NORTHBOUND INTO BOYNTON INLET FROM ATLANTIC OCEAN.  CAPTAIN REPORTED LOSS OF STEERING WHILE ON PLANE.  CAPTAIN ATTEMPTED TO PLACE MOTOR INTO REVERSE TO STOP FORWARD MOVEMENT BEFORE CRASHING INTO THE NORTH RETAINING WALL.  CAPTAIN ESTIMATED SPEED OF 10 MPG AT THE TIME OF THE CRASH.  THE IMPACT SMASHED THE STARBOARD BOW AND A GOUGE IN THE KEEL AND SEVERAL CHIPS ON THE STARBOARD LIFTING STRAKE.  NO INJURIES WERE REPORTED AND NO OTHER PROPERTY DAMAGE WAS DISCOVERED.


BARDID: FL-2023-0564
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-09-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:05:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: GORDON RIVER
NearestCityTown: NAPLES
County: COLLIER
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
RedactedNarrative:
VESSEL WAS IN THE PROCESS OF DOCKING WHEN OCCUPANT ATTEMPTED TO JUMP FROM THE VESSEL TO THE DOCK.  CONSEQUENTLY, HE FELL INTO THE WATER AND SUFFERED A LACERATION TO HIS CALF DUE TO CONTACT WITH THE PROPELLER.; VICTIM: laceration of calf due to contact with propeller.  vessel's operator was "possibly intoxicated". 


BARDID: FL-2023-0565
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-10-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:15:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: SAILFISH MARINA
NearestCityTown: PALM BEACH SHORES
County: PALM BEACH
WaterConditions: Calm
HazardousWaters: Y
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
VESSEL 1 (V1) WAS PULLING AWAY FROM THE FUEL DOCK AT THE SAILFISH MARINA.  WHILE PULLING AWAY FROM THE DOCK V1 WAS CAUGHT IN THE STRONG TIDAL CURRENT AND DRIFTED INTO THE BOW OF VESSEL 2 (V2), WHICH WAS PROPERLY MOORED IN IT'S SLIP WITHIN THE MARINA.  THE RUB RAIL OF V1 MADE CONTACT WITH THE BOW OF V2 CAUSING A SMALL CHIP IN V2'S FIBERGLASS.  V1 SUSTAINED MINOR DAMAGE TO IT'S RUB RAIL.  V2 WAS UNOCCUPIED AT THE TIME OF THE CRASH.  NO INJURIES WERE REPORTED AT THE TIME OF THIS INVESTIGATION.


BARDID: FL-2023-0566
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-11-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:41:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: TAMPA BAY/MUNICIPAL MARINA
NearestCityTown: ST. PETERSBURG
County: PINELLAS
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Poor
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Weather
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
V1 WAS REVERSING FROM HIS SLIP IN THE ST PETERSBURG MUNICIPAL MARINA, AS IT ATTEMPTED TO MAKE AN EAST BOUND TURN THE OPERATOR STATED THAT THE WIND KICKED UP AND BLEW HIS VESSEL INTO V2 WHICH WAS DOCKED IN SLIP.  THE PORT SIDE OF V1 MADE CONTACT WITH THE STERN OF V2. OWNER OF V2 STATED THAT THE VESSEL STRUCK SO HARD THAT THERE ARE STRESS CRACKS IN HIS FIBERGLASS.  I ALSO OBSERVED A BENT BOARDING LADDER AS WELL AS SOME MINOR CLEARCOAT DAMAGE TO THE STERN OF V2.


BARDID: FL-2023-0567
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-11-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:45:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: CLEARWATER PASS
NearestCityTown: CLEARWATER
County: PINELLAS
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with commercial vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
RedactedNarrative:
vessel 1 was operating outside of the marked channel in clearwater pass heading towards the north shoreline at idle speed.  before the regulated slow speed minumum wake area vessel 2 was operating inside the marked channel of clearwater pass heading due east at slow speed minimum wake, but before the regulated slow speed minimum wake area vessel 1 changed speeds and changed directions by throttling up and making a large circle and collided with vessel 2 vessel 1 impacted vessel 2's port side bow and the operator of vessel 1 was ejected into the water vessel 1 operator was assisted out of the water by vessel 2's operator, crew and passengers vessel 1 had major damage to it's bow, vessel 2 had minor damage to it's port side there were no reported injuries.  a third party witness stated vessel1 operator was inattentive and did not look before changing directions or speed, and was looking over his sholder when he collided with vessel 2.


BARDID: FL-2023-0568
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:44:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Gulf of Mexico
NearestCityTown: HOMOSASSA
County: CITRUS
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Person struck by vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
RedactedNarrative:
On Thursday, July 6th, 2023, BOAT OWNER 1, took his 24' foot, center console vessel, out to the Crystal River Scallop Grounds from a rental house on Homosassa River in Citrus County, State of Florida. 
Onboard the vessel were nine other subjects:
After interviewing several of the subjects present during the incident, I concluded:
	At approximately 1544 hours, the vessel was located at N 28.83445, W -082.77955 in 6 to 8 foot of water. BOAT OWNER 1, OP1, and SNORKELER 1 were snorkeling near the vessel with Diver Down flag displayed properly displayed. PAX 1, PAX 2, and all of the children were on board the vessel. There was a large floating play mat and a 150 foot line with two bouys attached to the stern of the vessel.
	PAX 2 alerted PAX 1 to a second vessel approaching the area at a high rate of speed. The vessel ran between OP1 and BOAT OWNER 1, who were near the end of the 150 foot line. BOAT OWNER 1 dove under the vessel, the vessel came to a complete stop and then took off again at a high rate of speed with a Northeasternly direction. BOAT OWNER 1 resurfaced a minute later, yelling for help.
	OP1 swam over to BOAT OWNER 1 while PAX 2 manuvered the vessel over to his location. BOAT OWNER 1 was lifted on to the vessel, where PAX 1 assessed his injuries (PAX 1 is a Physicians Assistant). OP1 then took the vessel back to MacRea's boatramp in Homosassa while SNORKELER 1 called 911.
	Once back at the MacRea's Boat Ramp, BOAT OWNER 1 was transported to Bayonet Point Hospital in Pasco county by Citrus County EMS. BOAT OWNER 1 suffered several lacerations to his left foot, a compound fracture to his left calcanious (Heel) bone, several contusions and a puncture wound on his right lower leg.
Nothing further to report at this time.; BOAT OWNER 1 suffered a puncture wound to his right lower leg, resulting in damage to the bone, lacerations across the left foot and an amputation of part of the calcaneous (heel bone), along with several contusions on both legs.   Sent by BOAT OWNER 1 on 8/16/2023:  Left leg is non-weight bearing for some time yet and was too swollen to re-cast at last visit.   Currently no range of motion in ankle splinted in plantar flexion to protect achillis.  Although when splint off I can not move ankle more than 5deg.   Just beginning to move toes.  1. Open fracture of the Left Calcaneus (Heel Bone cut off) 2.  Partial Avulsion of the Left Achilles Tendon (split in half) 3.  Closed fracture of 3rd and 2nd left metatarsal base 4.  fracture of left fibula 5. Laceration of Left lateral midfoot 6cmx2cm 6. Laceration of Left posterior heel 7cmx2cm 7. Fracture of Right Tibia just below the plateau 8. Laceration of the Right Proximal Medial Leg through soleus and gastroc to the tibia with capsule of knee visible 7cmx2cm .   While ortho issues above are more concerning longterm, the R leg has been much more painful and both knee and ankle range of motion are very limited, soleus and medial gastroc are still rigid with massive hemotomas from vessel impact.  Also significant sensory nerve damage affecting anterior and medial R lower leg.


BARDID: FL-2023-0569
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:20:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Hernando Bay
NearestCityTown: WEEKI WACHEE
County: HERNANDO
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
CoordinatesConfidence: C
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1, a Gheenoe style skiff, was operating in Chassahowitzka Bay when it hit a wave which caused both individuals on board to be ejected.  Vessel 1 continued to operate in circles, with no one aboard.  Both individuals began to tread water. They then swam towards the nearest channel marker, 19.  Prior to reaching the channel marker the operator stated he was not going to make it and disappeared below the surface. The passenger swam to marker 19, where he was able to call 911. A passing boat assisted the passenger just prior to the Sheriff's Office arriving. A 3 hour search concluded with the recovery of the operators body, near where he was last seen.   
OP1:Cause: Drowning Manner: Accident; 
PAX 1:Scratches from holding on to Navigation Aid. Oak Hill Hospital 


BARDID: FL-2023-0570
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-11-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:19:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake okeechobee
NearestCityTown: MOORE HAVEN
County: GLADES
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent3: Grounding
RedactedNarrative:
On Monday, November 27th, 2023, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) responded to a report of a single vessel accident. The call was along the Lake Okeechobee Rim Canal at approximately N26°48’1410” W80°58’4560”. The call stated that an 87ft vessel had stuck a hard object below the water line, had taken on water, and had grounded itself on the side of the canal.
I contacted the operator of the vessel. OP1 informed me that there were no injuries and that Sea tow had already been on scene to drive the passengers to shore. I then agreed to meet with OP1 at the accident site the next morning. 
On the morning of Tuesday, November 28th, 2023, I arrived at the accident scene and was met with OP1 and PAX 1, who said she was acting as the ships captain at the time of the accident. The vessel was an 87ft Yacht out of Whitefish Montana.
I asked OP1 and PAX 1 what happened. 
They informed me that they were moving northwest along the canal when they observed a sailboat anchored in the canal. They provided pictures of a sailboat. 
To maneuver around the sailboat, OP1 turned the vessel to the starboard and closer to the north side of the canal. While executing this maneuver he struck a hard object or objects below the water line along the north edge of the canal. 
They then briefly attempted to continue down the canal, before realizing they were taking on water. OP1 then used the vessel’s port side thrusters to ground the vessel on the north side of the canal, as to avoid sinking in the deeper center section of the canal. 
 I then took photographic documentation of the grounded vessel and the flooded compartments on the bottom of the vessel.
Once the ship had been dry docked at River Forest Yachting Centers of LaBelle two days later on Wednesday, November 29th, 2023, I took photo documentation of the bottom of the vessel. 
The vessels involved will be referred to as “V1” and “V2” for the unidentified sailboat. 
OP1 and PAX 1 were both onboard along with several other passengers. The occupants of V2 were also likely witnesses but remain unidentified. 
Based on my investigation, I concluded that OP1 was headed northwest along the canal when he attempted to maneuver around another vessel situated on his port side. This caused him to drift to his starboard to close to the north side of the canal and hit the right propeller on the submerged rocky incline located on the sides of the canal. This caused damage to the hull where the starboard propeller shaft supports were connected to the vessel. The vessel started taking on water from these points, forcing OP1 to ground the vessel or sink in the deeper section of the canal.  I also concluded OP1 did not have a proper lookout at the time of the crash and this contributed to his misjudging the distance and striking the side of the canal.
There was significant damage to V1, but there was no damage to the canal or any other property. 
Nothing further at this time.


BARDID: FL-2023-0571
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-10-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:27:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Bay / Sound
NearestCityTown: MIAMI BEACH
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Equipment failure
AccidentCause2: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Electrical
EquipmentFailure: Auxiliary
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel lost power and ended up being blown into two seperate yachts.

Both struck vessels were moored in their respective slips during the accident. The striking vessel lost control of its steering due to a loss of power. On the Date and time of the accident, a strong wind ultimately pushed the striking vessel into the two vessels moored at the dock, causing substantial damage to all vessels involved. After speaking to the striking vessel's captain, it was deemed that he had taken all the appropriate actions to avoid causing further damage to the vessels.


BARDID: FL-2023-0572
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-11-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:12:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Channel
NearestCityTown: NORTH MIAMI BEACH
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was heading southbound in the Intracoastal Waterway, just north of William Lehman Causeway when it struck the back of V2, landing on the boat, and shattering the majority of the glass on the windshield of V2. 
V1 was heading southbound in the Intracoastal Waterway, just north of William Lehman Causeway, in Golden Beach, at approximately 10-20 mph creating a very large wake in a posted slow-speed manatee zone, when it struck the back of V2, landing on the boat, and shattering the majority of the glass on the windshield of V2. The anchor of the vessel came into contact with the Bimini top that was on V2, ripping the Bimini top off, which is what caused the glass to shatter. A minor passenger on V2, sustained a head injury and was taken home by fire rescue, and subsequently taken to Memorial Hospital Miramar.; Subject was taken to his house by fire rescue, was subsequently taken to hospital. Sustained minor injuries, full recovery expected.


BARDID: FL-2023-0574
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-11-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:47:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Sawpit Creek
NearestCityTown: JACKSONVILLE
County: DUVAL
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
CoordinatesConfidence: C
RedactedNarrative:
On Thursday, November 9th, 2023, at approximately 1050 hours, the Jacksonville Sheriff's Office received a call about 2 unresponsive subjects in the water near Nassau Sound bridge. Communication between multiple agencies resulted in notifying FWC of the actual location of the incident (Duval County) and a request for an FWC patrol vessel. 
Both unresponsive subjects were brought in by good Samaritans to the Duval County shoreline where CPR was administered. Both subjects were pronounced deceased by Nassau Fire Station 20 at 1131 hours. An unmanned, anchored vessel was located nearby with fishing lines deployed in the water. The registered owner of the vessel matched a driver’s license found in the wallet of one of the victim’s pockets.  Witness statements confirmed that both subjects launched the vessel at Sawpit boat ramp earlier that morning around 1030 hours and stated that they were going fishing by the bridge. Witnesses also observed the 2 subjects actively catching fish just prior to the incident. An unknown event led to both subjects entering the water and being found unresponsive by kayak fisherman in the area.
On the boating accident report, under the “vessel” tab, the "accident type" and "what contributed to the accident" on this boating accident report is listed as "other". This is due to not knowing what factor(s) led the two subjects to enter the water.
The medical examiner reports list both subjects cause of death as drowning. It lists the manner of death for both subjects as accidental.
FWC Investigations will be completing the boating accident investigation. VICTIM 1:Cause of Death: Drowning Manner of Death: Accidental; VICTIM 2:Cause of Death: Drowning Manner of Death: Accidental


BARDID: FL-2023-0575
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-11-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:53:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW
NearestCityTown: HOLLYWOOD
County: BROWARD
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
RedactedNarrative:
What: Boating Accident
Where: Hollywood FL, 33019
When: 11/01/2023 at approximately 1745 hours
	On November 2, 2023, at approximately 1110 hours Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), was on patrol in a marked patrol vehicle when I arrived on scene to a boating accident that occurred on November 1, 2023, at approximately 1745 hours. The accident involved a vessel displaying Florida registration. The owner of the vessel was identified by driver’s license.
	OWNER 1’s vessel was moored at the dock. OWNER 1’s vessel was facing north when a vessel traveling north on the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW) created enough wake to cause OWNER 1’s vessel to make contact with a dock piling. The point of contact was on the starboard side towards the bow of OWNER 1’s vessel. The contact caused OWNER 1’s side rail to be damaged (See photos). The vessel that caused the wake and damage to OWNER 1’s vessel is unable to be identified. After examination of the incident, I determined the damage to OWNER 1’s vessel to be over $2,000. I took multiple photos of the damage and left the scene without further incident.


BARDID: FL-2023-0576
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-12-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:48:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Gulf of Mexico
NearestCityTown: ENGLEWOOD
County: CHARLOTTE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Equipment failure
AccidentCause2: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
EquipmentFailure: Auxiliary
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Sinking
RedactedNarrative:
The vessel operator was cruising offshore when the vessel engine shut off.  The vessel was taking on water for unknown reasons and the engine would not re-start.  The vessel eventually sunk and OP1 was able to climb aboard another nearby vessel.

I met with OP1, on December 3 at approximately 11:00am.  He explained to me that he was out cruising in his boat when the engine shut off.  He stated that he could not restart the engine and noticed that the vessel was taking on water.  He stated that the vessel sunk quickly, but his friends were nearby in their vessel and were able to come pick him up and get him safely back to shore.


BARDID: FL-2023-0577
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-12-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:15:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: GULF OF MEXICO
NearestCityTown: MARCO ISLAND
County: COLLIER
WaterConditions: Rough
HazardousWaters: Y
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Two male subjects on PWC in 5ft waves hit a wave and fall off left rear side. Subject in water hit by vessel thrown by wave. Broken wrist and hip.
I interviewed the operator of the vessel, He stated the following:
He and his brother, had rented the vessel (V1) at approximately 10:00am and drove it around to the gulf side of Marco Island. The waves grew to approximately 5ft tall, causing difficulties during the trip. Going over one of the waves they came back down onto a second wave causing them to be thrown off the rear left side of the PWC. The wave then threw the PWC on top of PAX 1. PAX 1 had difficulty getting back on and only complained of minor pain. OP1 tried driving them around the corner of Tigertail for protection from the waves but couldn’t make it, forcing them to beach the PWC. At that time, he called EMS for PAX 1 as the pain was intensifying and he was having difficulty walking. Someone took the vessel back to the dock to prevent it from sinking. He said the accident took place at approximately 1:15pm.
I interviewed the owner of the vessel and livery, and she stated they received a call that both OP1 and PAX 1 had been flipped and were beaching the boat. She stated the brothers reported a hurt wrist and leg but were unaware of the severity of the injuries. She also stated they brought the boat back to the dock to prevent the vessel from sinking in the waves.; PAX 1:SUBJECT FRACTURED RIGHT WRIST AND RIGHT HIP


BARDID: FL-2023-0578
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-10-22 00:00:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Biscayne Bay
NearestCityTown: KEY BISCAYNE
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel was heading eastbound inside of Biscayne channel at an unknown rate of speed. Operator advised; the vessel suddenly experienced mechanical and electrical issues that caused the vessel steering to veer to the left of the channel. He tried to pull back on the throttle but, the vessel continued forward in gear and struck the steel navigational aid marker (Red # 18). PAX 1 was the only other occupant on board.

Minor injuries were sustained to OP1 from the incident.

Nothing further.  
 
OP1: Sustained minor injures including: contusion to forehead and back of head, small lacerations to left arm near wrist and elbow, small laceration to left leg near shin. Did not seek any medical treatment.


BARDID: FL-2023-0579
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-10-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:25:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: GULF STATE WATERS
NearestCityTown: KEY WEST
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On 10/01/2023 Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) was on duty, in uniform. We responded to for a call of a vessel hit and run.
	Once on scene, the reporting party began showing me damage to the vessels involved in the incident. While conducting a boating accident investigation, I was alerted that the operator and occupant of the striking vessel was on scene when we arrived on scene. After a brief search of the area it was determined that neither individuals remained on scene. 
	It was later determined through witness statements and video taken at the time of the incident, there were two individuals on board the striking vessel. The operator was OP1 and the occupant was. OP1 was operating a 24’ Proline and the struck vessels were a 26’ Sportsman (V2) and a 27' Concept (V3) . The struck vessels were unoccupied and docked at the Garrison Bight Marina dock at the time of the incident. 
	The striking vessel suffered no apparent damages. The striking vessel did however have paint/gelcoat transfer on the bow eye and the anchor overhanging from the pulpit. The struck vessehad damage to the port side approximately midship including cracks in the gelcoat and fiberglass. The captain’s chair also suffered a damaged arm, the cushion had been broken off and the metal arm itself was extremely bent. The concept had minimal cosmetic scuffs. 
	On 10/04/2023 at approximately, 1700 hours we went to OP1’s most recent address listed in Driver And Vehicle Information Database (DAVID). The individuals in the residence informed me there was nobody matching that name that lived at the residence. I successfully was able to contact OP1 by phone and arranged to meet at her updated residence. Once I met with OP1, I was able to conclude the boating accident investigation. 
	At the conclusion of the boating accident investigation, I informed OP1 that I was moving forward with a criminal investigation. I read OP1 Miranda warning verbatim from my agency issued card, OP1 consented to answer questions. Post Miranda warning interview revealed OP1 was aware of the boating incident with damage. OP1 stated that the damage was approximately $3000. OP1 did not notify any law enforcement agency to inform them of the incident. Florida State Statute 327.30(2) requires the operator to without delay, by the quickest means available give notice of the accident to one of the following agencies: the Division of Law Enforcement of the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission; the sheriff of the county within which the accident occurred; or the police chief of the municipality within which the accident occurred, if applicable. 
	On 10/04/2023, I issued OP1 criminal Uniform Boating Citation (UBC) (V764971) for violation of failing to report a boating accident. 
	F.S.S 327.30(5) - It is unlawful for a person operating a vessel involved in an accident or injury to leave the scene of the accident or injury without giving all possible aid to all persons involved and making a reasonable effort to locate the owner or persons affected and subsequently complying with and notifying the appropriate law enforcement official as required under this section. Any person who violates this subsection with respect to an accident resulting in personal injury commits a felony of the third degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082, s. 775.083, or s. 775.084. Any person who violates this subsection with respect to an accident resulting in property damage only commits a misdemeanor of the second degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082 or s. 775.083.


BARDID: FL-2023-0580
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Biscayne Bay just West of Miam
NearestCityTown: MIAMI
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Choppy
CongestedWaters: Y
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Congested waters
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 and Vessel 2 were cruising side by side at an estimated speed of 30 miles per hour with Vessel 2 slightly ahead and to the right of Vessel 1. 
Vessel 2 slowed down and changed direction to the left to avoid a personal watercraft that was crossing in front of her. Vessel 1 crashed into the port side of Vessel 2 and its operator, knocking its operator into the water. Operator of Vessel 2 was transported to Ryder Trauma Center for treatment of internal injuries. 
I then made contact with the striking PWC operator, OP1, at the Marathon Fuel Dock. OP1 stated he was operating a PWC alongside his girlfriend, OP2, who was operating a different PWC with a juvenile, VICTIM, seated behind her. OP1 stated they were cruising side by side with OP2 slightly ahead of him at an estimated speed of 30 miles per hour and approximately 30 feet apart when another PWC crossed from right to left in front of OP2. OP1 stated that OP2 slowed down and turned to the left to avoid a collision with the crossing PWC. OP1 stated that he didn't have enough time to react to avoid a collision and crashed into the port side of OP2's PWC, striking OP2 in her torso and VICTIM in his left leg. 
VICTIM stated that he and OP2 were both ejected from their PWC into the water. VICTIM had swelling in his left ankle and left knee but was not transported to a hospital. VICTIM drew a diagram of his recollection of the accident and I have included it with this report. ; 
VICTIM was struck on his lower left leg by the striking PWC and had swelling in his left ankle and left knee. He was not transported to a hospital for treatment. ; 
OP2 was struck in her ribs on her left side by a personal watercraft at an estimated speed of 30 miles per hour. She was transported to Ryder Trauma Center by City of Miami Fire Rescue and admitted for treatment. Staff at Ryder Trauma Center advised Officers that OP2 had a partially collapsed lung.


BARDID: FL-2023-0581
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-11-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:12:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Atlantic
NearestCityTown: KEY WEST
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Rough
HazardousWaters: Y
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On 11/21/2023 Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) was informed that a boating accident had occurred in Key West. I relocated to the Lower Keys Medical Center and made contact with the victim. 
On 11/21/2023 Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) was informed that a boating accident had occurred in Key West. I relocated to the Lower Keys Medical Center and made contact with the victim. The victim did not have identification at the time of treatment.
I was unable to locate the male operator of the PWC.
VICTIM provided a written statement. VICTIM stated that she was a passenger on a rented personal water craft (PWC). VICTIM stated that as the PWC was traveling at approximately 20 mile per hour it crested a large wave and went airborne. VICTIM stated that she was ejected from the PWC. VICTIM stated that she came back down and landed on the PCW making contact with her lower right leg. I was informed by Lower Keys Medical Center staff that VICTIM had a broken leg (Right Fibula).
VICTIM stated that operator of the PWC received pre-ride training. VICTIM stated that the conditions on the water were very rough and that they should have been operating the PWC at a slower speed. VICTIM suffered a broken right Fibula just above the ankle joint.


BARDID: FL-2023-0583
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-12-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:35:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: St Johns River
NearestCityTown: JACKSONVILLE
County: DUVAL
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Equipment failure
AccidentCause3: Operator inexperience
EquipmentFailure: Sail dismasting
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
RedactedNarrative:
OP1 was operating Georgia vessel, heading southwest on the St Johns River and struck the Main St and Acosta Bridge.

The vessel was traveling southwest in the St Johns River enroute to Green Cove Springs. The owner/ operator struck the bridge with the mast. It came down with the rigging. The vessel then drifted and rested on the Acosta Bridge. JSO moved the vessel and tied it up to the city dock between the Main St and Acosta Bridge. There were no injuries.

Officers gave me the vessel and owner/ operator information and said that OP1 told them that he thought he was on the Intracoastal Waterway and that he  would  have clearance under the bridges.


BARDID: FL-2023-0584
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-11-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:51:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: FLORIDA BAY - BARLEY BASIN
NearestCityTown: ISLAMORADA
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Equipment failure
EquipmentFailure: Auxiliary
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (non-fuel)
RedactedNarrative:
On November 20, 2023, a 38 foot sailing vessel was at anchor on the bayside of Islamorada, Florida. At approximately 7:55 PM, an axillary generator located above deck on the bow of the vessel caught fire while the owner of the vessel was troubleshooting an issue with it. The owner of the vessel suffered second and third degree burns to his leg and foot. Three other occupants were on board and no other injuries were reported. The fire was extinguished with onboard fire extinguishers and with the assistance of a good samaritan who brought another extinguisher over. The injured person was transported to the mariners hospital and subsequently transported to HCA Florida Kendall Hospital Burn Unit. 
VICTIM: second and third degree burns to right foot  second degree burns to lower left leg


BARDID: FL-2023-0585
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-12-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:00:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Key West Bight/Conch Harbour M
NearestCityTown: KEY WEST
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Shift
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (non-fuel)
AccidentEvent2: Collision with fixed object
RedactedNarrative:
On 12/01/2023  Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), was conducting routine patrol in a marked FWC vehicle. I was contacted by FWC dispatch and informed that a vessel was on fire at the Conch Harbor Marina in Key West. I responded to the location at approximately 9:00 PM.
When I arrived I observed Key West Fire Department (KWFD) and Key West Police Department had responded as well. I observed a 60' cabin motor boat at rest against the sea wall. KWFD personnel were actively attempting to extinguish the fire.
I identified the owner of the vessel. Three other individuals were onboard at the time of the accident. I obtained written statements from all 4 individuals.
I then obtained digital images of the vessel. KWFD Fire Marshall escorted me onto the vessel and identified what he believed to be the origin of the electrical fire; The generator room at the stern of the vessel had extensive fire damage. In the main cabin of the vessel I observed a stack of documents. A search of these documents revealed an expired Florida registration which allowed me to identify the vessel as a 60' Riva brand motor yacht. I obtained digital images of the interior of the vessel.
I then returned to the dock and spoke with the vessel owner. OP1 informed me that as he was piloting the vessel around Ft. Zachary Taylor State Park the vessel began to respond poorly to steering input. OP1 stated that as he entered Key West Bight he lost the ability to shift from forward into neutral and reverse. OP1 stated that approached the dock and attempted to slow the vessel by shutting the engines off but the vessel still impacted the sea wall with it's bow. I observed little to no damage to the bow of the vessel not to the sea wall. I estimate that the vessel was traveling at a very slow rate of speed at the time of the impact.
I determine that the proximate cause of the accident was mechanical failure due to an electrical fire in the generator room of the vessel.


BARDID: FL-2023-0586
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-06-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:56:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Tamiami
NearestCityTown: TAMIAMI
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On 6/30/2023, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Officer  observed a 44-foot Searay going through the Tamiami River. The Searay struck a 63-foot Bertram. The struck Bertram was docked behind Glasstech Corp for repair. There was no one on board the Bertram, and the occupants on board the Searay reported no injuries. The Searay had damage to the starboard side swim platform the Benetan had damage near the portside exhaust.


BARDID: FL-2023-0587
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-12-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:00:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Tsala Apopka Chain of Lakes
NearestCityTown: INVERNESS
County: CITRUS
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with commercial vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Airboat vs Airboat Collision Inverness, Minor Injuries reported
Accident report is as follows:  
	Vessel 1, an 18 foot tour airboat was being operated in the area of the Tsala Apopka Chain of Lakes, in a narrow canal north of E Gospel Island Rd and N Edinburgh Dr in Inverness FL. According to video from the boat and witness statements, V1 turned east into a narrow canal with high grass on both sides and began to operate at a speed of approximately 10-20mph toward a bend with restricted visibility in the canal. V2, a 12 foot airboat was being operated by OP2, in the opposite direction as V1, heading west toward the main canal at a speed of approximately 10-20mph. As V1 and V2 came to the curve in the canal and came within sight of one another, both operators attempted to avoid the collision by turning to their starboard. However, due to the speed both vessels were travelling and the limited time to act due to the restricted visibility, they collided. From Vessel 1, PAX 1 was ejected from the vessel and into the water, while PAX 2 was ejected onto V2. From Vessel 2, both passengers were ejected onto Vessel 1. After the collision, OP1 called the operator of the airboat tour company and brought another airboat in order to take the tour clients back to land. The family then dropped off additional passenger and PAX 2 at their home in Inverness before driving themselves to Citrus Memorial Hospital, where they called Citrus County Sheriffs Office. OP1 then assisted OP2 in pulling his damaged airboat back to his truck and trailer. ; 
VICTIM 1: Bruising to left thigh. Subject left to emergency room after initial interview for further diagnosis and treatment. ; 
VICTIM 2 :Bruising to right wrist and right side of cheekbone. Subject interviewed at Citrus Memorial Emergency Room.


BARDID: FL-2023-0588
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-11-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:20:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: intracoastal waterway
NearestCityTown: PALM BEACH SHORES
County: PALM BEACH
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Weather
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Collision with fixed object
RedactedNarrative:
On November 16, 2023 a boating incident occurred at Cannonsport Marina, Palm Beach Shore, West Palm Beach, Fl. The incident involved OP1 loosing control of his vessel while leaving the fuel dock, due to the strong wind and tidal current and lack of vessel handling inexperience. This caused him to strike a docked vessel and the dock to Cannonsport Marina. There was fiberglass damage to both vessels. There was also damage to the dock box and damage to the power pedestal at the dock.


BARDID: FL-2023-0589
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-12-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:40:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: manatee pocket
NearestCityTown: STUART
County: MARTIN
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 lost mechanical power and drifted into vessel 2 where there was damage done to the bow from vessel 1 T-top rod holders.
Vessel 1s operator was towed off vessel 2 by a Jet ride employee who was unable to get any information from the operator.  When I responded to the Manatee Marina in the Manatee pocket, I was met by vessel 2s manager. I was informed that people were able to identify the operator of striking vessel 1.
 I traveled where I met OP1 there and introduced myself. I then explained that I was there in reference to a collision between two vessels the morning before. OP1 explained that he was operating his vessel when his engine died and then collided with vessel 2 after drifting. He also mentioned that he did not observe damage, so he left and made no effort to get in contact with the owner of the vessel. The damage I observed that occurred to vessel 2 was concurrent with the story told by both the Jet ride employee and OP1.


BARDID: FL-2023-0590
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-12-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 02:40:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: icw / south causeway
NearestCityTown: NEW SMYRNA BEACH
County: VOLUSIA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Missing or inadequate navigation aids
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was heading South within the ICW near Chicken Island in New Smyrna Beach.  The vessel struck an unmarked piling causing it to capsize.  Operator and occupant (vessel owner) were picked up by good Samaritan and taken to shore.


BARDID: FL-2023-0591
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-11-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:00:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: PEACE RIVER
NearestCityTown: ARCADIA
County: DESOTO
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentEvent3: Falls overboard
RedactedNarrative:
On November 26, 2023, at approximately 2:00 PM, a 22 foot pontoon was traveling south on the Peace River at approximately 20 MPH. A 7-foot standup PWC was traveling east at approximately 20 MPH. The pontoon and PWC collided with the pontoon’s forward starboard rail hitting the port side of the PWC and the occupants left hip. The PWC occupant fell into to the water. The operator of the PWC suffered a 4 inch laceration to his left hip and received 5 staples. 
On November 26, 2023, at approximately 2:00 PM, OP2 was operating a 7 foot stand up personal watercraft on the Peace River near Cow Island. OP2 told me the following,
•	He was attempting to cross the main part of the river (west to east) to get to river tributaries on the east side of the river
•	He was going approximately 20 MPH
•	He was the only one on the PWC
•	A pontoon boat hit his PWC on the port side
•	He fell into the water
•	He had on a PFD
•	He did not realized he was injured till he returned to shore a while later
•	Pontoon operator tried to exchange information but OP2 did not accept 
•	He suffered a laceration to his left hip 
•	He self transported to Shore Point hospital in Port Charlotte
•	He received 5 staples 
•	He did not look left or right before crossing the river
•	The hull of the PWC is compromised resulting in about $15,000 worth of damage; OP2 had a 4 inch laceration to his left hip, he received 5 staples from Shore Point Hospital in Port Charlotte.


BARDID: FL-2023-0592
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-08-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 08:50:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Manatee River
NearestCityTown: BRADENTON
County: MANATEE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel vs. 3 Docked Unoccupied Vessels.
Vessel 1 was traveling northbound between docks “A” and “B” within the Twin Dolphin Marina. The port side of vessel 1 struck the bow of vessel 2 which was docked at slip. Vessel 1 then struck vessel 3’s bow with it’s port side which was docked at slip. Vessel 1 continued traveling north between the docks “A” and “B” and struck vessel 4’s bow with it’s port side which was docked in slip.
Occupant of vessel 1 received a laceration to the middle finger of her right hand and went to a medical facility where she was treated and received two stitches.  ; Victim received and laceration to the middle finger of her right hand. Victim was transported to a medical facility where she received two stiches.


BARDID: FL-2023-0593
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-12-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:00:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: The Atlantic Ocean
NearestCityTown: NEW SMYRNA BEACH
County: VOLUSIA
WaterConditions: Rough
HazardousWaters: Y
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
AccidentCause2: Equipment failure
MachineryFailure: Steering
EquipmentFailure: Auxiliary
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
RedactedNarrative:
Subject owner of a 29ft sailboat vessel was found beached along the Canaveral Seashores a quater of a mile just North of lot #2. He stated at approximtaely 9 O'Clock pm on 12/13/14, he lost control of his vessel as he was navigating from New Symrna Beach area heading towards the Bahamas. He stated that his engine all of a sudden shut off which caused his vessel to drift along the beach.


BARDID: FL-2023-0594
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-11-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Clarke
NearestCityTown: WEST PALM BEACH
County: PALM BEACH
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
RedactedNarrative:
The accident occurred in lake Clarke where the lake meets a residential dock.

The Operator of the impacting PWC and his daughter/occupant were operating on Lake Clarke when Victim accidentally hit the throttle causing OP1 to not be able to avoid collision and make impact with the dock.

The bow of the PWC struck the dock causing signifigant damage to the dock. The top and starboard side of the bow of the PWC and also the steering control area was damaged. The impact caused a laceration and swelling to Victim's lip. Victim was taken to  St. Mary's hospital in West Palm Beach for treatment and discharged after. This injury was determined not to be an SBI.; Victim: swolen and cut upper lip


BARDID: FL-2023-0595
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-11-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:20:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Government cut
NearestCityTown: MIAMI
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
V1 struck V2 on its port side at a slow rate of speed while traveling northeast towards Miami Beach Marina. 
	At the time of the incident V2 was idling outside of Miami Beach Marina, while V1 was traveling Northeast in government cut and heading straight for V2’s port side. OP1 admitted that he was distracted while operating V1 because his helm door was pushed open by the wind and, as he turned back around, he realized he was about to crash into V1. OP2 placed V2 in reverse when he realized that V1 was about to hit him. Also, OP1 tried to reverse as well but he was too late and struck the port side of V2 at minimal speed with the starboard side bow of his vessel.


BARDID: FL-2023-0597
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-11-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:08:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Government Cut
NearestCityTown: MIAMI BEACH
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Falls overboard
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was being towed by documented vessel. V2 hit the towline which subsequently caught engine of V2, where V1 then collided with V2, causing V2 to roll to the starboard side, and eventually capsized.
V1 was unoccupied and being towed by documented vessel  and was heading eastbound at approximately 7.5 kts in Government Cut, adjacent to Miami Beach Marina. V2 was heading towards Miami Beach Marina and navigated around the stern of towing vessel, hitting the towline which subsequently caught engine of V2. This caused V2 to come to a stop in motion, where V1 then collided with V2, causing V2 to roll to the starboard side, and eventually capsized. Four occupants on board V2 ended up in the water before they were able to swim to the hull of the capsized boat where they were found by and rescued by United States Coast Guard (USCG). The occupants were transported to the USCG Miami sector station where they were assessed by Fire Rescue. None of the occupants were taken to the hospital.


BARDID: FL-2023-0598
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-12-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:05:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Biscayne Bay
NearestCityTown: MIAMI
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Rough
HazardousWaters: Y
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
RedactedNarrative:
On 12/13/2023  at approximately 1805 a vessel struck the northwestern section of the Dodge Island Bridge Fender System causing property damage to the fender system and damage to the vessel. No injuries. 
FWC arrived by water to the location at 2330 hours. The captain came down from the bridge and met us on the deck. He identified himself as the captain/operator. OP1 stated He was operating the V1 southbound in the ICW just north of the Dodge Island Bridge. OP1 also stated, while operating, he noticed the Virgin Cruise Line Cruise-Ship the "Scarlet Lady" which was docked on the seawall just north of the Dodge Island Bridge's eastern side, had its bow and stern thrusters activated. OP1 stated by the time he was at idle when he noticed the thrusters had pushed the V1 into the fender system of the Dodge Island Bridge. The V1 struck the fender system head-on with its bow and partially on its starboard side bow. The vessel sustained minor damages (scratches on bow and starboardside bow) although a portion of the fender system of the bridge was broken away. I then asked OP1 if he would provide a Sworn Written Statement, to which he complied (see attached). I provided OP1 with the case number for the report and obtained all necessary information from him.


BARDID: FL-2023-0599
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-11-19 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:27:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: icw
NearestCityTown: WEST PALM BEACH
County: PALM BEACH
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Rental vessel struck a moored sailboat causing damage.  No injuries reported.
On November 19, 2023, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission was dispatched to a vessel hit and run incident. The location was Intracoastal Waterway, near city docks in West Palm Beach. Incident was reported by a witness. He told me that a younger, slender, white male, who was operating a vessel rented hit a moored sailing vessel and left.  Witness told me, he was yelling toward the vessel to come back, but with no result.  He told me, he had a video of the vessel.  However, after review, I was unable to verify the incident, registration of the vessel, or identity of the operator.  
On November 24, owner of the struck vessel, contacted me.  He told me, his vessel suffered damages to the bow, just above the water line, as well as lacerations and strand breakage to anchor’s rod (he lost approximately 12 feet of chain during emergency splice to it, to secure ground tackle integrity).
On December 12, I spoke with general manager of rental livery.  He told me, after speaking with West Palm Beach employees and reviewing boat reports, one of his vessels was likely involved in the incident.  He told me that vessel rented on November 19 returned damaged.  When OP1 was confronted about the damages by employees, he ignored it and walked away. Damages to the rental vessel were to the bimini top.  Damages to the starboard rub rail were also noted on vessel report from previous rental. No other damages were reported.
I reached out to OP1 via telephone.  He declined to comment and denied that incident occurred.


BARDID: FL-2023-0600
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-11-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:00:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: lake Minnehaha
NearestCityTown: CLERMONT
County: LAKE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On 11/24/2023 Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) was assigned a vessel incident that had occurred the day prior (11/23/2023) on Lake Minnehaha in Clermont. The caller stated that he and his wife were involved in a vessel incident with no injuries on Thanksgiving Day while operating separate vessels. The reporting party was operating his personal watercraft (V1) and collided with his own pontoon boat (V2) which was being operated by his wife.  V2 was in neutral as V1 approached at approximately 20mph and collided with the starboard bow of V2. V1 ramped over the front starboard bow of V2 and returned to the water.


BARDID: FL-2023-0601
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-08-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:48:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Private Lake
NearestCityTown: FORT MYERS
County: LEE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentEvent1: Person departed vessel
CoordinatesConfidence: C
RedactedNarrative:
On August 23rd, 2023 between the hours of 1800 and 1900, a single vessel incident occurred on Lake Como a man made private freshwater lake in the Miromar Lakes community adjacent to Florida Gulf Coast University, Lee County, FL. with 13 occupants on board V1. V1 was off and adrift with the wind and water current. The 13 occupants were frequently entering, exiting V1 recreationally swimming in the lake around V1. The victim entered the water from V1's port side bow quarter by doing a back roll over the gunwale. Victim was seen resurfacing and swimming towards V1 and touching the port side before going underwater again. Victim did not resurface and became missing. The remaining occupants attempted to locate victim before calling 911. 
A multi agency search and rescue operation was conducted looking for the victim. On August 24th, 2023 the victim was located by FWC on the lake floor and recovered by the Lee County Sheriff's office dive team. San Carlos Fire Rescue pronounced the victim deceased at 1112 hours.
Alcohol is listed as a contributing factor based on the information received from the Lee County Sheriff detectives' interviews of the occupants and operator of V1. All of them stated the deceased had been consuming alcohol prior to drowning. Lee County did not find the operator to be impaired. 
Lee County Sheriff's Office is the lead agency in the death investigation. 
FWC is lead in the boating incident investigation. Victim was recovered deceased.   Cause of death: Pending ME report  Manner of death: Pending ME report


BARDID: FL-2023-0602
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-11-19 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:47:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: intracoastal waterway
NearestCityTown: PALM COAST
County: FLAGLER
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 a 36-foot sailboat white in color which was being operated by the owner at MATANZAS RIVER (ICW) LIGHT MARKER 109. While operating her vessel, she put the vessel on autopilot to tend to her dingy at the back of the vessel. When she was tending to her dingy her vessel struck a dock at a residential home.


BARDID: FL-2023-0603
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-08-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:30:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Ocean / Atlantic
NearestCityTown: KEY BISCAYNE
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentEvent2: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent3: Falls overboard
RedactedNarrative:
On 08/26/2023 at approximately 0930 The 23’ Maverick boat works bearing registration number (V02) was said to have been heading south at approximately 25 MPH, ¼ mile east of the Key of Biscayne when the operator stated that he was decelerating the vessel to a near stop when the 17’ Mako (V01) struck them in the stern. The operator of V01 stated that he was following behind V02 at 25 MPH when he noticed it slow down. OP1 stated he attempted to turn the wheel to starboard when he slipped and fell into the bottom of the vessel causing it to continue forward into V02 knocking the occupant/owner of vessel V02 into the water. Victim stated that he had pain in his shoulders but refused treatment at the time of the incident. 
The operators of both vessels involved completed written statements and photographs of both vessels involved were captured and are attached to the report.
Body worn camera footage was captured and is available upon request.


BARDID: FL-2023-0604
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-12-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:15:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Indian River Lagoon
NearestCityTown: FORT PIERCE
County: SAINT LUCIE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
V1 entered the Fort Pierce City Marina, heading in a westerly direction, and docked at the marina fuel dock.
V1 upon leaving the dock, attempted to maneuver and turn around to exit the marina, east bound.  However, the vessel unable to make the turn in time, drifted westerly and struck a moored vessel.


BARDID: FL-2023-0605
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-11-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:37:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW
NearestCityTown: PALM BEACH GARDENS
County: PALM BEACH
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Equipment failure
EquipmentFailure: Auxiliary
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (non-fuel)
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel caught fire likely due to faulty deck light. Fire was extinguished by a good Samaritan before Fire Department arrived.  No injuries.


BARDID: FL-2023-0606
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-11-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:49:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Canal
NearestCityTown: UNINCORPORATED
County: OSCEOLA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person struck by propeller
RedactedNarrative:
V1 while traveling northeast on the Hatchineha Canal veer to it's starboard side due to the operator reached at the port side rear of the boat to fix V1 equipment, while holding the telescopic stick of the engine. 

V1 then struck the bank of the canal (east side) ejecting operator to the stern. Operator fell over the 15 HP engine where his clothe got caught on the prop. and suffered laceration to his leg. The operator also received a laceration to the head from an unknown source.  

V1 was inoperable after impact due to the operators clothe stopping the engine and V1 been on dry ground. Victim: Laceration to the head - received about 7 staples Laceration to leg and hip


BARDID: FL-2023-0607
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-12-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:20:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: intra costal waterway
NearestCityTown: JENSEN BEACH
County: MARTIN
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Electrical
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (non-fuel)
RedactedNarrative:
On 12/24/23 a 28ft sail vessel that was anchored at the NW corner of the Jensen Beach Causeway in Martin County caught fire due to an electrical short. The fire was extinguished and there was damage to the stern berthing area of the vessel. The lone occupant was treated at the hospital for smoke inhalation and released. Subject treated for smoke inhalation from fire, treated and released from Martin North Cleveland Clinic.


BARDID: FL-2023-0608
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-10-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:00:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Kissimmee River
NearestCityTown: LAKE WALES
County: POLK
WaterConditions: Calm
CongestedWaters: Y
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Congested waters
AccidentCause3: Restricted vision
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Grounding
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On October 15, 2023, at approximately 1140 hours Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) Officers responded to a double vessel incident that took place on the Kissimmee River, located in Polk County. Two subjects were onboard a 2004 13’ Florida Homemade Airboat (V1) that was traveling northeast on plane. Multiple subjects were onboard a 2021, 23’ Diamondback Airboat (V2) that was traveling south on plane. Both unknowingly approached the other from opposing directions while navigating a blind bend. V1’s bow collided with the ground on the East side of the river. The passenger of V1 suffered injuries to the face and head and was cleared by EMS at Grape Hammock Marina. V2 proceed back to the marina.; VICTIM: Female ejected from seat upon vessel collison with ground. See photos.


BARDID: FL-2023-0609
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-11-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:15:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Black Water Sound
NearestCityTown: KEY LARGO
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On November 11, 2023, at approximately 1515 hours, OP1 was operating an 11 ft Jet Ski, hereafter referred to as V-1. At the same time, a 10 ft Jet ski, hereafter referred to as V-2, was operating in the same vicinity. V-2 was occupied by OP2 and PAX 2. Both vessels were cruising at approximately 20 MPH in Blackwater Sound, Key Largo, approximately 200-300 yards from the shoreline  at Reef House Resort. 
V-1 approached the port side of V-2 at approximately 15-20 MPH. As V-1 approached V-2 OP1 attempted to turn V-1 to his port side, he then unintentionally accelerated the Jet Ski and crashed into the port side  of V-2 causing all occupants to be ejected. All occupants were recovered by Good Sam that was within the area of the accident. All occupants from V-1 and V-2 were brought to shore where OP2 & PAX 2 were transported by Emergency Medical Services for their injuries.; 
PAX 2 sustained a compound fracture to the lower left leg. PAX 2 was transported via ambulance to Mariners Hospital where he was then transported via helicopter to Kendall Regional Medical Center in Miami.; 
OP2 sustained a compound fracture to the lower left leg. He also sustained a large laceration to the lower left leg. OP2 also sustained a broken pelvis. OP2 was transported via ambulance to Mariners Hospital where he was then transported via helicopter to Kendall Regional Medical Center in Miami.


BARDID: FL-2023-0610
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-12-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:36:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: swamp
NearestCityTown: INVERNESS
County: CITRUS
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Restricted vision
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person struck by propeller
RedactedNarrative:
On 12-2-2023 at Approximately 14:45 hours there was a collision between two vessels in the vicinity of Flying Eagle marsh. The location of the incident was approximately one mile west of the area commonly known as Hotdog Island. A metal "John Boat" style vessel collided with a air boat while both occupying the same trial, traveling in opposing directions. The collision resulted in the passenger of the John Boat being thrown into the air boats cage and prop. VICTIM made contact with the air boats prop resulting in significant damage to his left hand. VICTIM was transported to Ocala Regional Hospital via life Flight; VICTIM sustained a major laceration through his left hand above his ring finger that caused substantial damage to bones and soft tissue. There was also a large laceration across his left wrist.  VICTIM had several minor lacerations to his left leg as well.; OP1 sustained a approximately 1'' laceration to the inner portion of his left leg. OP1 had it wrapped in a piece of fabric. OP1 refused medical treatment.


BARDID: FL-2023-0611
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-12-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:51:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Gulf of Mexico, Destin Pass
NearestCityTown: DESTIN
County: OKALOOSA
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent3: Sinking
RedactedNarrative:
On December 4, 2023, at approximately 1800 hours, I responded to a call reference a disabled vessel, possibly taking on water that struck the Destin Jetty while attempting to enter the Destin Pass. The operator and his two dogs onboard the 41’ Hunter Marine Corp sailboat were rescued by Coast Guard personnel and taken to Coast Guard Station Destin with no injuries. The vessel, which struck the West Jetty on the Gulf side approximately 30 yards from the end of the Jetty, took on water and eventually sank. The vessel now rests, fully submerged, at the end of the West Jetty, still on the Gulf side.


BARDID: FL-2023-0612
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-12-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:24:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Miami River
NearestCityTown: MIAMI
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Hull failure
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Sinking
RedactedNarrative:
On December 2, 2023, I was on water patrol and heard a call over VHF channel 16 regarding a vessel taking on water in the Miami River. I responded and arrived within approximatly 10 minutes to find the vessel sunken near the mouth of the river. There were no injuries and the sunken vessel was recovered by Fast Response. 
On December 28, 2023, I spoke to OP1 via phone to obtain more information about this incident. OP1 stated the following:
•	The vessel has already been repaired and costed approximately $20,000 to repair. 
•	The vessel sunk due to water intrusion from the engine bracket. 
•	OP1 has over 100 hours of boating experience, including over 100 hours of experience on this vessel type.
•	OP1 does not have any formal boating education. 
All events occurred in Miami-Dade County, Florida.


BARDID: FL-2023-0613
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-12-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:00:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW
NearestCityTown: PALM COAST
County: FLAGLER
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Single vessel S4B. V1, operated by OP1, drove south on the ICW just south of Fox Cut Day Beacon green "1".  V1 maneauvered away from their friend’s house’s dock after the conclusion of the boat parade, and steered south. V1 accelerated to get on plane and short time later crashed into the rocks on the west side of the Intracoastal Waterway, just north of the Waterfront Park. OP1 estimated he was traveling at approximately twenty-five Mph and estimated he had only traveled one quarter to one half mile before the crash.; Victim suffered Fractured L2 Vertebrea and the attached ribs. No surgery required. Injuries will heal on their own in a few months.

Based on the detailed narrative it appears to be a fall as a result of the impact.


BARDID: FL-2023-0614
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-12-31 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW at Manatee Ave Causeway
NearestCityTown: BRADENTON BEACH
County: MANATEE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentEvent2: Collision with fixed object
RedactedNarrative:
On 12/31/2023 at approximately 5:20pm, I, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) Officer Specialist, received a call from our Orlando Regional Communications Center (ORCC) regarding a single vessel boat accident which had occurred near Kingfish Boat Ramp in Manatee County. Holmes Beach Police Department had responded by land and requested our presence.  All three occupants were accounted for, and one was being evaluated by EMS for lacerations and a possible head injury.
(added from detailed narrative: Both OP1 and PAX 1 stated that they had been out all day.  They had gone up to Paradise Key in Pinellas County to hang out with friends.  After spending a couple hours there, they came back down and stopped by The Bridge Tender Inn Dockside & Tiki Bar.  According to OP1’s original statement, the line was too long, so they didn’t stay.  They then left the docks and proceeded north back towards Kingfish Boat Ramp.  OP1 stated VICTIM was seated to his right, while PAX 1 was to his left.  As they approached the Manatee Avenue West Bridge from the south, another vessel was allegedly passing under the bridge through the channel.  OP1 decided to pass under the bridge approximately two bridge-spans to the west of the main channel to avoid this oncoming vessel.  The occupants’ statements claim that VICTIM slipped or fell from the helm seat and while falling, pulled OP1 from the steering wheel.  It is unclear from the statements and interviews what caused VICTIM to fall, or if the vessel had already started losing control as it passed beneath the bridge. 
With both OP1 and VICTIM away from the helm, PAX 1 tried to correct the pathway of the vessel.  OP1 quickly got back up to the steering wheel but was unable to keep the vessel from immediately striking one of the bridge piling supports under the span at a speed of approximately 20mph.  None of the occupants were thrown from the vessel, however VICTIM did suffer laceration injuries to her right brow-line and bridge of her nose from collisions inside the vessel.  At this point, a vessel passing by stopped to assist.  One of the occupants of this vessel boarded the damaged vessel and helped drive the vessel to the nearby Kingfish Boat Ramp while OP1 and PAX 1 tended to VICTIM’s injuries.  No information was provided on the subject who assisted, and he left the scene before law enforcement arrived.); VICTIM:I proceeded to Blake Memorial Hospital where Officers had completed obtaining a sworn written statement from VICTIM.  VICTIM’s mother and father were with her at the hospital, and her mother transcribed the statement while VICTIM told her what happened.  VICTIM read over the statement and made any corrections that needed to be made.  I thanked VICTIM and her parents and provided them with the Boat Accident Report number and my business card should they have any other information for me.  VICTIM’s injuries were documented via photograph where appropriate and included several contusions to her left foot, left arm, right thigh, chest, and the two lacerations to her face (one above her right eye/brow and one to the bridge of her nose).


BARDID: FL-2023-0615
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-12-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 07:27:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: gulf of mexico
NearestCityTown: BIG PINE KEY
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On December 23, 2023, OP1 was operating his vessel in Bahia Honda Channel, with two other occupants on board.  The small power vessel began taking on water from waves coming over the gunnel.  The vessel capsized and the three subjects entered the water.  United states Coast Guard rescued the individuals and transported them to Bahia Honda State Park Marina.


BARDID: FL-2023-0616
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-09-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:15:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Peace River
NearestCityTown: PUNTA GORDA
County: CHARLOTTE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
CoordinatesConfidence: C
RedactedNarrative:
On September 30, 2023, at approximately 1615 hours, a single vessel allision occurred at the Fishing Pier in Punta Gorda, Florida. The vessel involved was a 11-foot Personal Watercraft - (V1) operated by one adult male with one adult female passenger. V1 was traveling east in the Peace River at a high rate of speed. The operator had an illegal blood alcohol level at the time of the incident when he drove V1 into the Fishing Pier. Both occupants were ejected from the vessel. They were both found floating unconscious in the water and brought to shore. They were both transported to Gulf Coast Medical Center. The female passenger was released with minor injuries while the operator later died due to injures sustained from the impact.; Right temporal fracture with a right parietal intraparenchymal hemorrhage and cuts and brusing located all over body


BARDID: FL-2023-0617
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-12-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:32:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: INDIAN RIVER
NearestCityTown: TITUSVILLE
County: BREVARD
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent3: Sinking
RedactedNarrative:
On December 12, 2023, I, FWC (Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission) Officer Specialist responded to a boating accident on the Indian River near Titusville Marina, Brevard County.  The vessel, a motorized canoe, took on water as the result of strong water currents.  The vessel became swamped and as a result, the operator and other occupant, were ejected into the water.  The vessel went missing intitally for a short period.  No injuries to the occupants were sustained.

Later that day, the vessel was recovered and removed from the water for servicing.


BARDID: FL-2023-0619
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-12-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:33:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: marina
NearestCityTown: MARCO ISLAND
County: COLLIER
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On December 13th, 2023 Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Division of Law Enforcement (FWC) was on-duty, conducting law enforcement patrol in Collier County, State of Florida. 
I received a call in reference to a minor boating accident involving two vessels at the dock.  Upon arrival both owners were on scene.
Due to the owner stating he believed that there was more than 2,000 dollars worth of damage I conducted the vessel accident report.
V1 was a 1987/ALBIN Operated by OP1. 
V2 was a 1999/MPC docked with no person on vessel. 
While V2 was tied off to dock in slip, V1 Backed into the slip next to it. Due to wind (around 15kts with gusts of 25kts at the time of the accident) when the incident occured they were unable to secure a line on the dock.V1 then drifted into V2 causing the corner of the starboard stern of V1 to make contact with the port side hull of V2.
V1 had blue paint transfer on the rub rail where it made contact with the port side hull of V2.
V2 had 3 spots where V1 had made contact with the port side hull. There was a spot from the corner contact that had punched light damage to fiberglass and paint. Second contact looked like paint damage to bottom of hull from V1 dive platform. Third contact spot seemed to be paint transfer.
Contact between the two vessels seemed to be with vessel not in gear with just wind as a factor for collision. After initial contact OP1 stated he was able to used line hook to push off V2 and get line on dock to secure the vessel.
OWNER OF VESSEL V02 stated he estimated the damage at 2,500 dollars.
No injuries reported from the accident.


BARDID: FL-2023-0620
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-11-19 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:00:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Intracoastal Waterway
NearestCityTown: FORT PIERCE
County: SAINT LUCIE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Sudden medical condition
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
CoordinatesConfidence: C
RedactedNarrative:
On Sunday 11/19/23 at approximately 12:00 hours OP1 was operating a jet ski in the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW) with his wife as a passenger. OP1 made a slow speed turn, lost balance, and along with his wife fell off the jet ski. The jet ski flipped over and was upside down in the water. OP1’s Brother-in-Law was with them on a separate jet ski. He was able to get PAX 1 on his jet ski, hold on to OP1, and towed him to shore. On the way to shore OP1 lost consciousness. Once on shore CPR was administered on OP1. 911 was called, St. Lucie Fire Rescue arrived, and transported OP1 to HCA Lawnwood Hospital. OP1 arrived at the hospital at 12:36 hours and was pronounced dead at 12:40 hours.
OP1 fell the water while turning the jet ski. He panicked in the water and lost consciousness.  ME's preliminary report stated: Cause of death: Natural Cotributing factors: Hypertensive Cardiovascular Disease


BARDID: FL-2023-0622
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2023-12-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 08:22:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: INLET
NearestCityTown: PORT ORANGE
County: VOLUSIA
WaterConditions: Rough
HazardousWaters: Y
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Poor
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
RedactedNarrative:
I was on routine patrol, when I received a call from dispatch about a vessel that had capsized on Disappearing Island. When I arrived on scene, there was a vessel that had capsized on the island. I called the owner of the vessel and he stated that he had paid a third party to move the vessel for him. On this day that the vessel was being moved, the weather was particulary bad. It was raining and quite windy. Visibility was poor. 
According to the vessel operator the vessel was traveling through the ICW and then made its turn to the east to start leaving the Inlet, when it ran aground onto the shallow part of the island. He attempted to back off but the wind was keeping him planted onto the sand bar. After numerous attempts, he was unable to move the boat with the engine power. He called Sea Tow to come pull the boat but they were unsuccessful, due to the weather conditions. Due to th constant wind and waves, the keel snapped and broke. Operator 1 stated, he then called coast guard to help him off of the sinking vessel. Coast Guard came and picked him up from the vessel.
Vessel was totalled out by insurance. Unknown amount


BARDID: FL-2023-0623
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-08-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:45:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Manatee River
NearestCityTown: PALMETTO
County: MANATEE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Throttle
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
CoordinatesConfidence: C
RedactedNarrative:
On August 26, 2023, at approximately 1745 hours, a single vessel allision occurred in Cuts Edge Harbor Marina in Manatee County, Florida. The vessel involved was a white 20-foot Bayliner, (V1) operated by one adult male with one adult female passenger. V1 was pulling into a slip at the marina when the vessel experienced a mechanical issue with the throttle. The vessel slammed into a dock at the marina and the female passenger at the bow of the vessel, became lodged between the dock and the vessel. She was taken to the hospital and later died due to complications from her injuries sustained during the allision.; Victim became lodged between the vessel and dock. She broke her femur and went into surgery to repair the injuries. On 08/27/2023 at approximately 0502 Victim died while in surgery due to complications from the incident.


BARDID: FL-2023-0624
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-12-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:00:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Tampa Bay
NearestCityTown: TAMPA
County: HILLSBOROUGH
WaterConditions: Calm
CongestedWaters: Y
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Congested waters
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Single vessel accident, contact with wake. 
(copied from detailed narrative: Around dusk, they decided to go to the Skyway to view the lights. While observing the lights, they came into contact with the wake of a large ship heading to Port Manatee (appx GPS: N 27.62950100, W 082.63596600). In the process of managing the wake two individuals both fell inside of the vessel. 
Emergency medical services were declined at the time, but a follow on December 13th indicated VICTIM 2 had sustained compression fractures of the L1 and two herniated discs. VICTIM 1 later went to seek medical attention, but had no major injuries other than severe bruising. VICTIM 2 is being treated for her injuries.
I obtained statements from VICTIM 2 and OP1. I also spoke to the other passengers, who corroborated the story received from both VICTIM 2 and OP1.); VICTIM 1:bruising, lower back VICTIM 2:Compression fracture, L1. Two herniated discs.


BARDID: FL-2023-0625
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-12-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:30:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW
NearestCityTown: BOCA RATON
County: PALM BEACH
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentCause3: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Steering
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
See Detailed Narrative
(added from detailed narrative: On December 3, 2023, at approximately 2030 hours, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), was dispatched to a delayed Hit and Run Boat Accident (S3B) in Palm Beach County, the reporting party advised that the incident occurred at approximately 1830 hours. I made contact with the Reporting Party, who was also the operator of Vessel 2 (V2). V2 is a 22-foot Pathfinder bearing Florida Registration. OP2 advised me that no one was injured during the incident and that he would be staying the night in Delray Beach, and I could see the boat on the trailer the next morning at his home to take pictures and take the report.
	On December 4, 2023, at approximately 1100 hours, I met with OP2 at his home in Davie. OP2 provided me with a sworn written statement with his account of the incident the night before as well as a list of people on his boat. OP2’s statement stated that he was involved in a boating accident underneath the Camino Real Bridge in Boca Raton. I took pictures of V2 and talked with OP2’s younger brother, who was also on the boat during the incident, he gave me a similar verbal statement of what happened during the incident. OP2 provided me with videos from the incident, but they only showed footage from after the incident occurred. There was some damage to V2s gelcoat on its starboard side (see photos).
	At approximately 1200 hours, I met with the Registered Owner of Vessel 1 (V1), a 22-foot Triumph, at his home in Pompano Beach. OP1 provided me with a sworn written statement that an accident never occurred. He told me he lost steering, and his vessel came close to V2 but never actually hit. He told me the occupants of V2 were being loud and threatening him. He did not feel safe stopping to talk to the occupants and operator of V2. I took pictures of V1 and there are some scrapes in the hull on the port side bow, where the operator of V2 stated they hit. But the damage does not match the damage I saw on V2. There was no black rub rail or white paint transfer on the hull of V1 (see photos).


BARDID: FL-2023-0626
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-12-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:20:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Conine
NearestCityTown: WINTER HAVEN
County: POLK
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
(copied from detailed narrative: On December 9th, 2023, at approximately 11:20am, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) received a call from the Sanford Regional Communications Center (dispatch) regarding a vessel accident on Lake Conine, in Winter Haven, Florida. Dispatch informed me two jet skis collided in Lake Conine and there were no serious injuries. Dispatch also advised the subjects involved were waiting for my arrival at the boat ramp.
At approximately 12:00pm, I arrived at the Lake Conine Boat ramp and observed two personal watercraft (V2 and V1) that were loaded onto their trailers. I also observed two Hispanic males standing near the watercraft on the shore. I announced myself as law enforcement and confirmed there were no injuries. During my investigation, I interviewed both subjects separately to determine the cause of the vessel accident. 
OP1 stated the following: 
•	He knew OP2 personally from riding together with him.
•	OP1 was in the center of the lake, riding his PWC in a figure-eight style motion.
•	When exiting his figure-eight, he was unaware OP2 was watching him at such a close distance.
•	When he realized OP2 was so close, he attempted to avoid collision but was unsuccessful.
•	OP2 was traveling under 10 miles an hour, while OP1 was traveling close to 20 miles an hour.
•	OP1’s PWC struck the rear port side of OP2’s PWC.
OP2 stated the following:
•	He was cruising around the western end of Lake Conine when he observed OP1 riding in a figure-eight pattern in the center of the lake. 
•	He traveled near OP1 to watch him operate his PWC.
•	OP1 was operating in a figure-eight and was unaware of OP2’s location.
•	When OP1 exited his figure-eight, OP1 come out of his figure-eight pattern running on plane in OP2’s direction.
•	Both operators attempted to avoid collision but were unsuccessful. 
•	OP1’s PWC struck the rear port side of OP2’s PWC.)


BARDID: FL-2023-0627
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-12-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:30:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Intracoastal Waterway
NearestCityTown: MIAMI
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentEvent1: Collision with commercial vessel
RedactedNarrative:
V1 was travelling South in ICW, V2 was travelling North in ICW being towed/pushed ahead by V3. V1 was temporarily on autopilot without a proper lookout. V1 collided bow to bow with V2.
(added from detailed narrative: I spoke to the owner and operator of V1 and he said that he was travelling at slow speed South in the ICW approaching channel marker 33 when he needed to use the restroom. He set the vessels steering on autopilot and asked his passenger to maintain lookout while he was temporarily away from the helm. OP1 went downstairs to the restroom and while he was inside, he felt the vessel stop abruptly and heard the collision. He came back upstairs to find that his vessel had collided head-on with V2, and he quickly took control of the helm. The initial collision with the crane caused damage to the upper station, knocking down a bimini top enclosure, part of the windshield, and a mast with radar and lights. The secondary collision with the steel barge caused significant fiberglass damage to the exterior of the bow below the anchor pulpit down to approximately 2 feet above the waterline. After the collision, V1 turned to port and its starboard side was resting against the bow of the barge, causing minor damage to the teak handrail before the vessels separated.
	On December 21st, I went to speak to the operator and crew of V2 and V3. The operator said that he was operating the tugboat and was pushing the crane barge to their construction project on the East 79th Street Bridge. Due to the size of the tugboat and barge, his vessel was constrained by draft and restricted in its ability to maneuver. Operator 3 was travelling North in the ICW at slow speed. He saw V1 ahead in the distance coming towards him, and began to slow his speed even more and began to sound his horn to alert the people on V1. As they got closer, OP3 put the tugboat in reverse and brought the vessel almost to a stop, while continuing to sound his horn. He and his crew were able to see that there was nobody at the helm in control of V1, and it collided with the crane and the bow of the barge. One of the crew quickly called law enforcement to report the collision.)


BARDID: FL-2023-0628
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-09-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:21:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: BISCAYNE BAY
NearestCityTown: CORAL GABLES
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
AccidentCause2: Sharp turn
MachineryFailure: Engine
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On September 8, 2023, at approximately 10:50 AM, FWC was notified by Miami-Dade Police Department (MDPD) of a single vessel accident with injuries that occurred in Biscayne Bay, near Matheson Hammock Boat Ramp.  The two occupants were both ejected from the vessel.  They were both transported to Jackson Memorial Hospital South.  One was unconscious, had a head injury, and was in critical condition.  The second was conscious and had an injury to his left shoulder.  V1 was partially submerged.
(Added from ISR: At approximately 10:21 AM, the vessel was approximately 4 miles southeast of Matheson Hammock Park, traveling between 108 to 110 MPH.  V1 made an abrupt turn to port (left) ejecting both the operator and occupant. The vessel continued to turn to port, decelerate, until it came to a final stop.  The vessel took on water until it was partially submerged in a near vertical position.  The engines were touching the sea bottom and the bow was the only part of the vessel remaining above water. V1 was traveling Southeast at 100-110 MPH, with the engines operating near their maximum RPM range.  The port engine’s lower unit seized, locking the propeller.  This created drag on the port side with the starboard engine still providing near maximum thrust.  This resulted in a hard turn to port (left) while still traveling at a high rate of speed, between 85-90 MPH.  V1 turned approximately 180 degrees while rapidly decelerating, until it came to rest as the transom dug into the water.  The violent twisting in the turn caused the vessel’s fiberglass hull and cap to flex against each other.  This resulted in the fiberglass damage, as well as the separation of the hull and cap.
When the transom dug into the water both occupants were ejected into the water.  OP1’s body struck the port engine’s cowling, causing some of his injuries.  PAX 1 was injured as his body skipped across the water.
I have concluded that although speed was a contributing factor, the cause of the accident was the mechanical failure of the port engine lower unit. ); PAX 1:Expected to fully recover. OP1 was found underwater, uncouncious and unresponsive.  He was reportedly revived twice.  He was unconcious/coma for approximately a month.  He is currently in rehabilitation to regain physical and mental capabilities.


BARDID: FL-2023-0629
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-12-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 02:00:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Miami Beach Marina
NearestCityTown: MIAMI BEACH
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Choppy
HazardousWaters: Y
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On 12.9.2023, documented vessel V2 was attempting to dock in the Miami-Beach Marina in Miami-Dade, Florida. The starboard side bow of the documented vessel made contact with the port side bow of Florida registered vessel V1. The impact caused damage to the starboard side of documented vessel V2, and railing damage. The railing of Florida registered vessel V1 was damage during the incident. The operator of the documented vessel V2 was the only one present at the time of the incident. The accident was later reported to FWC on 12.15.2023.


BARDID: FL-2023-0630
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-12-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:30:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW Near Jewfish Key
NearestCityTown: SARASOTA
County: SARASOTA
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
RedactedNarrative:
On 12/29/2023 at approximately 6:30pm, I received a call from our dispatch center regarding a single vessel boat accident which had allegedly occurred near Jewfish Key in Manatee County.  Longboat Key Police Department was on-scene at Cannon's Marina on Longboat Key from which the vessel had been rented.  Longboat Key Police Department Sergeant advised they got involved due to a civil dispute that had arisen between the renter/operator and the Marina staff, as a result of the accident.  Longboat Key Police documented all parties involved, photographed the damage to the vessel, and provided me with all the pertinent information regarding the accident for follow-up investigation.  I concluded my investigation after meeting with the operator/occupant on 12/31/23 at their vacation residence.   
(copied from detailed narrative: On 12/31/2023 at approximately 1:00pm, I met with the vessel operator, OP1 and his wife at their vacation residence on Siesta Key.  I explained to both subjects that I needed more information to complete the boating accident report, and then would switch the investigation over to address any criminal infractions or citations that needed to be addressed.  Both subjects were cooperative and provided me with the information required to complete the boating accident report.  At this point, I read both subjects their Miranda Rights from my agency issued Miranda Card.  Both subjects stated they understood each of their rights and would continue to speak with me.
I asked the subjects for an accurate location of where the accident occurred, and OP1 pulled up a picture of the bridge on his Maps application on his cell phone and showed me the bridge he struck was the Boulevard of the Presidents bridge near St. Armands Circle.  This was different from the information provided in the attached LKPD report.  OP1 maintained his account that he was traveling at a slow speed when the T-top of the vessel struck the bridge.  Both subjects thought they had enough clearance to make it under the bridge and were mistaken.  The extensive damage to the vessel appears to indicate a faster speed was involved, and when asked about this, OP1 stated that he thought there may have been damage that he did not notice prior to renting the vessel.  When specifically asked if he had noted any damage to the vessel prior to departing the Marina with marina staff, OP1 said, “No.”  )


BARDID: FL-2023-0631
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-12-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: RIVER
NearestCityTown: FORT MYERS
County: LEE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
RedactedNarrative:
A single 34' cabin motorboat was heading south in the Caloosahatchee River when the operator became disoriented and noticed that he was navigating the wrong channel and not the ICW. The operator quickly changed course, but struck a rocky bottom and punctured the hull near the port side prop shaft.


BARDID: FL-2023-0632
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-12-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:00:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Gulf of Mexico
NearestCityTown: HOLMES BEACH
County: MANATEE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Poor
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause3: Restricted vision
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Synopsis:
At approximately 1400 hours, on December 3rd, 2023, Vessel 1 (V1) and Vessel 2 (V2) were both underway approximately half of a mile west of Bean Point in Manatee County. Visibility was poor due to fog. V1 was heading east bound at approximately twenty miles per hour. V2 was heading south at approximately 5 miles per hour. V1 and V2 collided, with V2’s bow making contact with V1’s port side bow. No serious injuries were reported, and no one involved sought medical treatment immediately after the collision.; Operator 1 contacted me one week after the collision and informed me that his Dr. diagnosed him with a bruised sternum and a cracked rib.


BARDID: FL-2023-0633
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-12-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:47:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Port Everglades Inlet
NearestCityTown: FT. LAUDERDALE
County: BROWARD
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
What: Boating Accident
Where: Intracoastal Waterway (ICW) and Port Everglades Inlet
When: December 29, 2023 at approximately 1100hrs
	On December 29, 2023 at approximately 1100hrs, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, were on routine water patrol in Broward county. As we were entering Port Everglades inlet, we observed two vessels stopped in the inlet, and due to the positioning of the vessels and dialogue taking place between the captains, we realized a boating accident had just occurred. We then approached the two vessels to gather information regarding the accident. Upon approaching the vessels, the captain of each vessel as well as bystanders confirmed that an accident had taken place. 
	Vessel 1 was a 33’ 1988 Blue Nortech. The operator of this vessel OP1. Vessel 2 was a 65’ 2017 White Yacht. The operator of this vessel was OP2. 
	After we collected all of the identifying information for the vessels and the operators, we then separated the two parties and began an investigation into how the two vessels had collided. Based on the description of the event from the two operators and the damage on the vessels, it was concluded that the accident took place as follows: 
Vessel 1 was headed south bound and Vessel 2 was headed north bound on the ICW at Port Everglades Inlet. Vessel 1 intended to exit the inlet, heading east. However, both vessels were approximately parallel when Vessel 1 attempted to head east. Due to its premature turn, Vessel 1 struck Vessel 2 at the rear port side of Vessel 2. Vessel 1 made initial contact on its bow on the port side. Vessel 1 then attempted to straighten its course which caused its port side to drag along the rear port side of Vessel 2. Both vessels were operating at approximately idle speed. There were no injuries.
Based on the conclusion of our investigation, OP1 was issued a Uniform Boating Citation for Violation of Navigation Rules: Failure to avoid a collision. I explained the information on the citation to OP1 and obtained his signature on the court copy of the citation. OP1 received his copy of the citation. 
Both parties left the scene without further incident. Photographs were taken of the damage on both vessels. Body worn camera was used.


BARDID: FL-2023-0634
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-12-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:30:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: MARINA
NearestCityTown: FORT PIERCE
County: SAINT LUCIE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Steering
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On December 11th, 2023, at approximately 5:30 PM Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), was dispatched to a boating incident at Fort Pierce City Marina. Upon arrival, I encountered vessel one operator, OP1, and vessel two occupant, at the Fort Pierce City Marina Fuel Dock. No parties were injured. Damage was evident on the starboard side of vessel one and the bow pulpit of vessel two. 
While interviewing OP1 about the incident, OP1 advised that his wife and him were leaving the fuel dock when they lost control of the vessel’s steering and crashed into the neighboring vessel. OP1 explained that he was removing his vessel from the dock by bowing up to the west dock piling of the fuel dock, front end of vessel to the dock pile. After breaking away from the dock and heading underway, OP1 noticed his close proximity to the moored vessels that were adjacent east of the fuel dock and attempted to correct his direction of travel through steering. However, OP1 advised that while attempting this method, his steering wheel became alarming easy to turn, like if he had lost steering all together. At this time, OP1 advised he put the vessel into neutral then reverse to prevent himself from hitting vessel two, but was unsuccessful due to the prevailing winds. 
OP1 informed that the starboard side of vessel one had struck the bow of vessel two. OP1 vessel damage includes damage to the aft rub rail, one window broken, and scraps to the fiberglass.


BARDID: FL-2023-0635
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-12-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:13:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW
NearestCityTown: CLEARWATER
County: PINELLAS
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
RedactedNarrative:
ON MONDAY, DECEMBER 4 2023, AT 1813 HRS DURING THE HOURS OF DARDNESS, IN THE ICW NEAR ICW MARKER #10 V1 CRASHED INTO ICW MARKER NUMBER 10  AND LEFT THE SCENE.  NO INJURIES IN THIS CRASH.
ANOTHER CAPTAIN REPORTED THE CRASH ON MARINE RADIO CHANNEL 16.  HE IDENTIFIED THE VESSEL AS BEING A WHITE CENTER CONSOLE STYLE VESSEL WITH BRIGHT WHITE LIGHTS ON IT.  
THE CLEARWATER MARINE VESSEL WAS IN THE GULF OF MEXICO AT THE TIME NEAR CLEARWATER PASS.  I OBSERVED A VESSEL FITTING THIS DESCRIPTION.  I MADE A VESSEL STOP ON THE VESSEL.  I COMPLETED A SAFETY CHECK.  THE VESSEL WAS MISSING FLARES.
I ASKED CAPT. IF HE HAD BEEN IN A CRASH AND IF HE HAD HIT A MARKER.  HE STATED THAT HE DID.


BARDID: FL-2023-0636
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-11-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:30:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: BISCAYNE BAY
NearestCityTown: CUTLER BAY
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentEvent2: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
OPERATOR OF VESSEL #1 ADVISED HE WAS ATTEMPTING TO DOCK HIS VESSEL IN HIS BOAT SLIP WHEN HE TWISTED HIS ANKLE AND FELL DOWN.  WHILE FALLING DOWN HE ACCIDENTALLY ENGAGED THE THROTTLES FORWARD, CAUSING HIM TO IMPACT VESSEL #2.

VESSEL #2 WAS UNOCCUPIED AND DOCKED AT SLIP.


BARDID: FL-2023-0637
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-12-31 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:04:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: TAMPA BAY
NearestCityTown: ST PETERSBURG
County: PINELLAS
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Collision with fixed object
RedactedNarrative:
VESSEL 1 WAS ATTEMPTING TO DOCK WHILE VESSEL 2 WAS ALREADY DOCKED AND UNOCCUPIED.  VESSEL 1 STRUCK THE STARBOARD SIDE OF VESSEL2 WITH THE STARBOARD SIDE OF VESSEL 1 BEFORE STRIKING THE DOCK WITH THE BOW OF VESSEL ONE.  THE INICIDENT CAUSED DAMAGE TO THE STARBOARD SIDES OF BOTH VESSEL 1 AND VESSEL 2, AS WELL AS THE DOCK AND THE BOW OF VESSEL1.


BARDID: FL-2023-0638
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-12-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:06:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: OCEAN
NearestCityTown: KEY BISCAYNE
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Very rough
HazardousWaters: Y
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Sinking
RedactedNarrative:
VESSEL #1 WAS ANCHORED THREE MILES EAST OF GOVERNMENT CUT WHEN IT STARTED TO TAKE ON WATER. OPERATOR #1 ADVISED WHEN HE REALIZED THE BOAT WAS TAKING ON WATER HE CUT THE ANCHOR ROPE AND TRIED TO START HIS ENGINE TO MOVE BUT THE VESSEL STARTED TO SINK AND CAPSIZED.


BARDID: FL-2023-0639
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-09-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 23:00:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Biscayne Bay
NearestCityTown: MIAMI
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Poor
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
RedactedNarrative:
This is a single vessel accident. V1 was traveling in the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW)  near red channel marker 20.  V1 and victim struck red ICW channel marker #20 and the victim was ejected from the vessel.  A search for the victim was conducted by FWC, MDPD, USCG, and N. Bay Village PD. On 09-24-23 at approximately 1100 hrs, the victim was located underwater, deceased and was subsequently recovered by MDPD and FWC.

Victim had blunt force trauma to the back of the head, multiple skull fractures, fracture at the base of the skull, ruptured brain stem, fractures in ribs 1-3 located at the front left of the chest, abrasions at the back of left shoulder, left lung laceration, and left shoulder was separated.


BARDID: FL-2023-0640
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-12-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:30:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Okeechobee
NearestCityTown: MOORE HAVEN
County: GLADES
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
AccidentCause3: Restricted vision
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
On 12/29/23, at approximately 09:30AM, there was a boating accident on Lake Okeechobee with an airboat and a bass boat. 
(copied from detail narrative: Accident Details
Pre-Collision
 On 12/29/2023, OP1 and PAX 1 were duck hunting on Lake Okeechobee. Between 9-9:30AM, they were heading back to the ramp and attempting to get back onto an air boat trail on the southeast end of the Monkey Box. 
OP2 and passengers were fishing a tournament on Lake Okeechobee. They were driving southeast in a trail going approximately 20MPH. OP2 stated that he needed to keep that speed to not hit bottom in a shallow area. 
Collision
	V1 collided with the port side bow of V2 as it was coming onto a trail. The trail had high cattails on both sides. 
Post-Collision
	Each vessel checked to make sure the other was okay. Water had to be pumped out of the airboat before V1 could leave. VICTIM had an injury to his head, and they headed back to the ramp to get medical attention. ); Victim suffered an injury to his head. He was treated at Raulerson Hospital in Okeechobee. He was released that day with no issues.


BARDID: FL-2023-0641
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-12-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:53:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Nixon Sandbar
NearestCityTown: MIAMI
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Improper anchoring
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
V2 attempted to anchor, then drifted and collided into V1. 

(added from detail narrative: On December 28, 2023 at approximately 1530 hour, in the vicinity of Nixon sandbar, V2 attempted to anchor within 100 yards of V1, who was already anchored. V2 started drifting into V1, attempted to adjust but drifted into V1. V1 and V2 both sustained damage. )

Nothing in the detailed narrative, but the sworn statements and photos show damage to the bow and port side of the vessel. It appears to be fiberglass damage as well as damage to the anchor pulpit and gear.


BARDID: FL-2023-0642
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-09-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:12:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: EAST RIVER CUT-OFF
NearestCityTown: APALACHICOLA
County: FRANKLIN
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
RedactedNarrative:
On 9/9/2023, V1 traveled into the East River Cut-Off from the East River and was headed towards Saint Marks River, which is located in Franklin County, FL.  At approximately 1612 hours, V1 was traveling in a southerly direction on a portion of the East River Cut-Off when it started to pass another vessel traveling in the same direction.  

V1's course took it in close proximity to the southern shoreline where some overhanging trees and branches were extending out into and over the waterway.  Operator was identified by witnesses as the operator of the vessel at the time of the accident.  As a result of traveling into the overhanging trees and branches, Operator was struck in the head causing significant head and facial injuries.

In addition to Operator operating the vessel, there was one other occupant on board who was sitting in a passenger seat towards the rear of the vessel.  Occupant was also struck in the head by the overhanging trees and branches which caused severe injuries.  The witnesses who observed the accident knew the occupants of V1 and stopped to render aid.  Due the seriousness of the injuries and neither the operator or occupant were able to drive the boat.  The witnesses got on board the accident vessel and drove it to Bay City Lodge located just outside of Apalachicola, FL.  Once they arrived at Bay City Lodge, Occupant was pronounced deceased by Franklin County EMS Paramedic at approximately 1644 hours eastern time.  Operator was transported to Ascension Sacred Heart in Panama City, FL. and admitted into ICU for treatment of his injuries.  According to his attorney, Operator was subsequently transferred to Shands Hospital in Gainesville, FL. for further treatment of his injuries.

This boating accident report (BAR) was submitted without additional data which will be included in the investigation report upon it's completion (ISR # 051410.)  This report also does not include a final amount of investigative time and resource data as of the submission date.


BARDID: FL-2023-0643
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-09-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Harris
NearestCityTown: TAVARES
County: LAKE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Person departed vessel
CoordinatesConfidence: C
RedactedNarrative:
On 9/9/23 at approximately 1700hrs, a single vessel incident occurred on Lake Harris south of the Dead River.  

A 58yr old male occupant of a pontoon boat entered the water to join his wife who was already in the water and did not resurface.  The vessel was drifting with the motor off at the time the victim entered the water.  The victim’s body was later located and recovered by Lake County Sheriff’s Office.  Sworn statements were gathered from the witnesses and operator of the vessel,  The incident is still under investigation at this time.


BARDID: FL-2023-0644
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-10-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:30:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: ATLANTIC STATE
NearestCityTown: KEY WEST
County: MONROE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
CoordinatesConfidence: C
RedactedNarrative:
V1 TRAVELS NORTH THRU SAFE HARBOR CHANNEL AT NIGHT ON PLANE
V1 STRIKES USCG DAYBEACON GREEN '5' ON PORT BOW
V1 OCCUPANT (SITTING ON PORT GUNWALE)  IS STRUCK BY DAYBEACON RESULTING IN FATAL INJURIES.

Victim1 fell to the deck of V1 after allision. Victim1 suffered hematomas/bruising on her left wrist. Was taken to Lower Keys Medical Center via ambulance. Treated and discharged that same night. No injury beyond first aid. 

Victim2 had Multiple Blunt Force Injuries. Manner of Death: Accident Evidence of Injury:  Head and Neck: 	A 1 ¼ x 3/8-inch red abrasion is in the left cheek. A 5 x2 inch area of lacerations and repeating linear red abrasions is in the left side of the face. A fracture of the right side of the base of the skull that extends up into the Sella turcica is seen. Mild subarachnoid hemorrhage is in the base of the brain.   Torso:	 	Multiple bilateral rib fractures are seen. A 3 x 3-inch area of multicolored bruises is in the superior aspect of the left side of the chest. Multicolored bruising extends along the entire left side of the torso. A 1 ¼ x 1-inch red abrasion is in the left inguinal crease. A 2 ¾ x 1 ¼ inch area of red abrasions is in the superior aspect of the left shoulder.   Extremities: 	A 6 x 6-inch patterned red-purple bruise is in the medial aspect of the upper right extremity. A 5 x 6-inch area of repeating linear red abrasions is in the lateral aspect of the upper left extremity.  A 6 x 3-inch area of red abrasions and red-brown bruising extend along the dorsal surface of the left hand and forearm. Multiple palpable fractures are in the left arm.


BARDID: FL-2023-0646
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-09-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:55:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Bay
NearestCityTown: CUTLER BAY
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
CoordinatesConfidence: C
RedactedNarrative:
On Tuesday, September 26, 2023, at approximately 1:55 PM, OP1, BOAT OWNER and PAX 1 were conducting a sea trial on BOAT OWNER’s 2018 39’ Contender (V1). The three individuals went underway with OP1 at the helm. BOAT OWNER, with the help of OP1, was showing the vessel to PAX 1 who was a potential buyer for V1.  After exiting Black Point channel, they proceeded to head North at a high rate of speed when OP1 lost control of V1, and everyone was ejected. Shortly after a Good Samaritan rescued all three individuals out of the water. OP1 was unconscious and unresponsive. Miami-Dade Marine Patrol arrived and began administering first aid, All individuals were transported to Jackson South Medical Center where OP1 was pronounced deceased.  ; BOAT OWNER:BOAT OWNER sustained multiple fractured ribs, bruising and punctured lung on right side of his body. which were a results from falling inside the boat before being ejected. ; OP1,:After Reviewing the Medical Examiners report, please see the following injuries OP1 sustained.  1. Cerebral edema (1780 grams) 2. Contusions and lacerations of the left temporal lobe 3. Linear hemorrhages of left parietal lobe white matter 4. Intraparenchymal hemorrhage of midbrain 5. Minute recent left subdural hemorrhage 6. Scalpular and subgaleal hemorrhage 7. Dense hemorrhage of anterior neck musculature and soft tissue 8. Dense hemorrhage of posterior neck musculature 9. Ligamentous instability of the atlanto-occipital and C1-C2 joints 10. Thoracic spinal cord epidural hemorrhage 11. Laceration of the scalp 12. Abrasions, and contusions of the extremities 13. Fluid within sphenoid sinus 14. Heavy lungs 15. Cardiomegaly (420 grams) with left ventricular hypertrophy 16. Coronary atherosclerosis 17. Nephrosclerosis  the cause of death was Blunt Force Injuries contributed by Terminal Submersion in water.


BARDID: FL-2023-0647
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-11-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:30:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Caloosahatachee River
NearestCityTown: ALVA
County: LEE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
CoordinatesConfidence: C
RedactedNarrative:
On November 26, 2023, at approximately 1730 hours, a single vessel incident occurred in the Caloosahatchee River in Alva, Florida. The vessel involved was a 2008 15-foot Florida Homemade Vessel (V1). V1 was occupied by two adult males. For an unknown reason, one male passenger was ejected into the water and was struck by the vessel’s propeller. The operator loaded V1 and returned to his residence and approximately 3 hours after the incident call 911. The body of the missing boater was located nearly 36 hours after the incident.; Occupant was located floating on the North side of the Caloosahatachee River. He had propellar injury to the head and hands.


BARDID: FL-2023-0648
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-05-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:45:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Ida
County: PALM BEACH
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
CoordinatesConfidence: C
RedactedNarrative:
V1 struck a fixed dock. Operator was transported by Palm Beach Fire Rescue to Delray Medical Center, where he was pronounced deceased. The occupant was transported by Delray Fire Rescue to Bethesda Hospital (East), and was treated for minor injuries and released. V1 and trailer were seized and taken to Jupiter Evidence Compound and submitted as evidence at 1942.

Operator:Succumbed to multiple blunt force injuries and submersion in water.;

Occupant:Was transported to hospital for bruising on arm and general check over since she was a minor.


BARDID: FL-2023-0649
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-12-31 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:00:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: CANAL
NearestCityTown: PUNTA GORDA
County: CHARLOTTE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Restricted vision
AccidentEvent1: Collision with commercial vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On December 31, 2023, a large cabin vessel collided with a construction barge in a residential canal in the Punta Gorda area. Several occupants on board the cabin vessel were injured. The injured individuals were treated for minor injuries at a local hospital and released. 

(per officer on 3/7, operarators vision was obstructed by passanger); VICTIM 2 sustained contusions from the collision and did not receve treatment beyond first aid. ; VICTIM 1: sustained a small laceration above her right eyebrow. VICTIM 1 was treated and released at Suncoast hospital.   ; VICTIM 3 sustained a head injury and multiple contusions.VICTIM 3 was treated at the Suncoast hospital and released.


BARDID: FL-2023-0650
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-12-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:00:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: atlantic ocean
NearestCityTown: ST. AUGUSTINE
County: SAINT JOHNS
WaterConditions: Rough
HazardousWaters: Y
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
CoordinatesConfidence: C
RedactedNarrative:
On December 23, 2023, at approximately 1000 hours, Subject was paddling his 20-foot racing canoe off St. Augustine Inlet in the Atlantic Ocean. He was paddling with two others, each on their own canoe. Operator was seen falling out of his canoe approximately ¾ of a mile east of the inlet mouth and was able to get back on. 

Sometime after, the other two subjects with Operator looked back and saw Operator’s canoe capsized but did see him. The two subjects paddling with Operator searched approximately twenty minutes for him before returning to shore to call 911. Operator was found deceased by Good Samaritans on December 26, 2023, on Ponte Vedra Beach, approximately 7 miles north of where he was last seen.; OPERATOR’s cause of death was accidental drowning


BARDID: FL-2023-0651
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-10-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:42:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Biscayne Bay
NearestCityTown: MIAMI
County: MIAMI-DADE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
RedactedNarrative:
Sunday, October 22nd, 2023, at approximately 1840 hours V1 and V2 were cruising southbound near Pace Picnic Island when V1 abruptly changed direction and crashed into V2. V2 operator and occupant were injured and transported to Ryder Trauma Center. V2 occupant was declared deceased at the hospital. V2 operator was treated for his injuries and was in stable condition. V1 operator was uninjured. Both personal watercrafts (PWC) were taken before law enforcement arrived. On Sunday, December 3rd, 2023, V1 and V2 were identified in the same general area and seized. Deceased: Blunt force injuries of head, neck, torso, right upper extremity, and lower extremities ; V2operator:BROKEN RIGHT LEG


BARDID: FL-2023-0652
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-12-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:00:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: ST. JOHNS RIVER
NearestCityTown: ST. AUGUSTINE
County: SAINT JOHNS
WaterConditions: Rough
HazardousWaters: Y
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Poor
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: People on gunwale, bow, or transom
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
CoordinatesConfidence: C
RedactedNarrative:
On December 15, 2023, at approximately 1300 hours, a single vessel incident occurred on the St. Johns River in St. Augustine, St. Johns County, Florida. The vessel was occupied by two adult males traveling on the St. Johns River. The victim fell overboard while the vessel was in motion. The victim was unable to stay afloat while the operator maneuvered the vessel in an attempt to render aid. The victim was subsequently located deceased in the water. The victim’s wife (next of kin) was notified by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC).

Victim was found no visible signs of trauma. District 23 Medical Examiners Office listed the cause of death as accidental drowning.


BARDID: FL-2023-0657
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-12-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:18:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Blackwater River
NearestCityTown: Milton
County: Santa Rosa
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
RedactedNarrative:
On December 9, 2023, at approximately 0843, two people departed on the Blackwater River, on two separate kayaks. Shortly after their departure witness, one person observed Operator1 fall off the kayak he was on, into the water and not resurface. Operator1 was not wearing a PFD at the time. Witness contacted 911 at approximately 0844. SRCSO arrived at approximately 0851, EMS arrived and recovered Operator1 by vessel. At 0916 EMS Supervisor pronounced Operator1 deceased.Witness stated looked like a seizure.


BARDID: FL-2023-1000
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2023-06-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 03:07:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Biscayne Bay
NearestCityTown: Miami
County: Miami
WaterConditions: Unknown
Wind: Light
Visibility: Unknown
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with commercial vessel
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
CoordinatesConfidence: C
RedactedNarrative:
A recreational boat and small passenger ferry vessel collided in Miami harbor.

The passenger ferry had 3 crewmembers onboard and 0 passengers.  Shortly after the vessel entered the channel, the operator noticed a small vessel heading east in Government cut at a high rate of speed 100 years off the port bow.  The commercial operator slowed.  The recreational vessel collided with the bow of the commercial vessel, broke apart and sank to a depth of 50 feet with 2 people onboard.  The commercial vessel crew recovered one person floating in the water; the person was semi-conscious, without clothes from the wait downward and had multiple injuries.  The other person was recovered deceased 45 minutes later.  The ME report indicated signs of head trauma and drowning.

The recreational boat operator was at fault for speed and navigation rules in a crossing situation.


BARDID: FL-2023-1001
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-01-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:00:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Gulf
NearestCityTown: Key West
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Unknown
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
RedactedNarrative:
According to information from the Coast Guard, two intoxicated people were trying to board a vessel rafted to another vessel when one fell overboard.  The survivor untied a dingy and tried to recover the missing person but the dinghy’s engine failed to start.  He remained in the disabled vessel until it became grounded on Ft. Zachary Taylor.  It is unknown whether the deceased fell overboard from the sailboat or the dinghy.


BARDID: FL-2023-1002
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2023-03-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:00:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Tampa Bay
NearestCityTown: Tampa
County: Pinellas
WaterConditions: Unknown
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Unknown
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
RedactedNarrative:
According to information from the Coast Guard, a vessel was a total loss after capsizing.  Four people were recovered without injuries.


BARDID: FL-2023-1003
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-12-19 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:14:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Inlet
NearestCityTown: Surfside
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Unknown
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Sinking
RedactedNarrative:
According to the Coast Guard, a vessel sustained significant damage after taking on water.  Two people were recovered alive after being in the water for an hour.


BARDID: FL-2023-1004
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-06-18 00:00:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Clinch
County: Polk
WaterConditions: Unknown
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Unknown
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Sharp turn
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
RedactedNarrative:
According to a news media report, two people were thrown off a PWC after a sharp turn.  The occupant was wearing a PFD and was able to swim back to the vessel but the operator was recovered deceased; he wasn’t wearing a PFD.


BARDID: FL-2023-1006
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-05-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 08:00:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Gulf of Mexico
NearestCityTown: Egmont Key
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Unknown
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Unseen water hazard
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent3: Capsizing
RedactedNarrative:
According to information from the Coast Guard, a vessel sustained significant damage after hitting something underwater which caused a 2 x 1 ft breach.  The vessel took on water and capsized 40 miles west of Egmont Key. Seven people were rescued and reported to be in good health.  An EPIRB was used.


BARDID: FL-2023-1007
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-09-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 00:30:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Eloise
NearestCityTown: Winterhaven
County: Polk
WaterConditions: Unknown
Wind: Light
Visibility: Unknown
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
RedactedNarrative:
According to a news media report, an operator died after crashing into a cypress tree near the north shore of Lake Eloise after midnight.


BARDID: FL-2023-1008
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2023-10-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:35:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: New River
NearestCityTown: Fort Lauderdale
WaterConditions: Unknown
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Unknown
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (unknown origin)
RedactedNarrative:
According to a news media report, a vessel was a total loss after catching on fire at the Yacht Harbor Marina.  No one was onboard.


BARDID: FL-2023-1009
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-10-18 00:00:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Biscayne Bay
NearestCityTown: Homestead
WaterConditions: Unknown
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Unknown
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent3: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
According to information from the Coast Guard, two people became injured after a vessel crashed into a channel market ejecting three people into the water.  The vessel took on water and sank.


BARDID: FL-2023-1010
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2023-09-15 00:00:00
State: FL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Old Tampa Bay
NearestCityTown: Tampa
WaterConditions: Unknown
Wind: Light
Visibility: Unknown
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
RedactedNarrative:
According to a news media report, a vessel was a total loss after capsizing near the Gandy Bridge.  Two people were rescued by the Coast Guard.


BARDID: GA-2023-0002
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-01-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:20:00
State: GA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Other
NearestCityTown: BOWDON
County: CARROLL
WaterConditions: Calm
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Improper loading
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
CoordinatesConfidence: C
RedactedNarrative:
On 1/10/2023 at approximately 1135 hours, I, Game Warden with the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, received a call from GSP Cartersville about a Drowning on a watershed lake in Bowdon, Georgia. Cpl. and I notified Sgt. about the incident. He arrived on scene while Cpl. and I picked up our patrol boat. Upon arriving on scene, Sgt. notified us that Victim, a 16-year-old white male, had drowned.  

Victim was kayaking with Subject1 when they decided to swap kayaks. Subject1 stated that Victim turned around and started to mess with the kayak when it flipped. Victim Swam to Subject1’s kayak and pulled down, causing it to flip. Subject1 and Victim started swimming to shore when Victim panicked and grabbed onto Subject1, pulling him under. Subject1 was forced to push Victim away and swam to shore. 

Cpl. and I launched the patrol boat in the water at 1225 hours along with Carroll County Fire Departments’ boat. We located the two kayaks capsized on the far side of the lake and started to look for Victim with side scan sonar. GSP Aviation arrived on scene, patrolled the area by helicopter, and found a pair of boots floating on the East end of the lake.  Search efforts continued until GWFC arrived with the sector scan. Sgt. and GWFC stayed on the bank with the monitor while Cpl., GW, and I were in the boat with the sector scan unit. Using sector scan, we were able to locate Victim at 1920 hours in 8 feet of water. GSP dive team was able to find and recover him at 1930 hours. Carroll County Sheriff’s Department handled the death notification, and the Carroll County Coroner’s office took possession of the body.


BARDID: GA-2023-0003
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-01-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
State: GA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Altamaha River
NearestCityTown: VIDALIA
County: TOOMBS
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: Y
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On January 8th, 2023, at approximately 17:00 hours GWFC and myself (GW) received a call from GSP dispatch that there was a boating incident at Gray’s landing on the Altamaha River in Toombs County. 
	We arrived at the scene at Gray’s landing at approximately 18:00 hour and spoke with witness who observed the boat incident. She stated that she observed three vessels. The three vessels were one blue, one red, and one white.  She said they were running at a high rate of speed abreast of each other on the Altamaha River heading downriver towards Dean’s landing. She heard a loud noise and observed the blue vessel floating and the operator floating as well. I then got a written statement from her.  After speaking with Witness, I found that the Operator/owner of the blue vessel had been taken to the hospital by EMS.
	I went to find the blue vessel (1990 Make- Allison Model-Allison craft with a 200 HP Mercury) which was located at a private dock. There I made contact with Operator’s brother and I asked if he took control of the vessel. He said he did and was leaving it there because they could not locate Operator’s truck keys. He then said he was going to the hospital. I told him I would need to speak with him there. I then took photos of the damage on the blue craft. This consisted of cracks in the front of the bow, the rub rail being pulled out from the bow, and the throttle control was broken. We then left the scene to head to the Hospital to speak with Operator and Operator’s brother.
	We arrived at the Vidalia Hospital in Toombs County at approximately 19:04 hours where we spoke to Operator’s attending physician. The physician told us Operator had many contusions and has fluid in his lungs (Near drowning). He told us he would stay there or be transferred to a trauma center. I then found Operator’s brother and spoke with him. He stated they were traveling downriver toward Dean’s landing on the Altamaha River.  He said it was the white vessel then him operating the red vessel then his brother was behind in the blue Allison. He then stated he didn’t see his brother behind him and stopped and observed the blue Allison floating and his brother Operator floating. I asked Operator’s brother if his brother Operator was wearing a Life Jacket. He stated yes. We met with him to take photos of the life jacket and clothes that were in the back of Operator’s brother’s truck. 
	We then spoke with the operator of the white vessel. He stated he had no idea what happened because he made it back to Dean’s landing before getting a call from Operator’s brother.
	At this time, it is undetermined what happened to the blue Allison to cause the operator to be ejected from the vessel. The three vessels were traveling downriver on the Altamaha river at a high rate of speed to Dean’s landings in Toombs county. When they got to Gray’s landing something undetermined happened to the blue vessel and ejected Operator out of the vessel. He was wearing his life jacket (A Lifeline) but it had gotten ripped off of him upon impact with the water. He was then transferred by EMS to the hospital.


BARDID: GA-2023-0004
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2023-02-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:00:00
State: GA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Seminole
NearestCityTown: BAINBRIDGE
County: DECATUR
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: Y
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Unseen water hazard
AccidentEvent1: Collision with floating object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
On February 13, 2023, at approximately 7:25 P.M. I received a call from the Decatur County Sheriff’s Department. Subject stated a vessel struck some type of debris in the water on the Flint River and was taking on water. He stated the operators boat made it to shore of the river before the vessel could sink.  Subject said the operator and occupant were standing on the river shore with the vessel uninjured.


Upon my arrival at the location of the vessel, I asked the operator to explain what happened. Operator stated he was traveling south. Operator said just before he got to the Dothan Road Bridge, down from Elberta Crate, his vessel struck some type of debris in the river. I asked Operator if he saw what he struck and he advised he did not. Operator stated after his vessel struck the debris it started taking on water. Operator stated he made it to the shore before the vessel could sank. Operator and his friends pumped some of the water out of the vessel. They winched it up on the riverbank so it would not float away. As they pulled the vessel up on the riverbank there was a noticeable four foot long, six-inch-wide hole in the hull underneath the port side of the vessel, due to hitting the debris.


After speaking with Operator, I spoke to the occupant of the vessel. I asked Occupant to explain what happened.  Occupant stated they were headed south and just before the bridge they struck something in the river. I asked if he saw what they struck in the river and Occupant said he did not see anything. After collecting all their information from Operator and Occupant, Operator stated they would get the vessel to the Earl Maye Boat Basin the next day. I photographed the damage to the vessel on February 19, 2023, at Operator residence. While taking photos of the damage. I asked Operator if he was going to repair his vessel. Operator stated he took the vessel to a fiberglass shop, and they said it could not be repaired due to where the damage was located.


BARDID: GA-2023-0005
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-03-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:30:00
State: GA
NameOfBodyOfWater: OSSABAW SOUND
NearestCityTown: SAVANNAH
County: CHATHAM
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: Y
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent3: Capsizing
RedactedNarrative:
On March 23, 2023 I, Game Warden received a call in reference to a boating incident that occurred the previous day at approximately 1730 hours. A 59 year old male named was operating an auxiliary sailboat traveling in from offshore in the North Channel of Ossabaw Sound. Operator was using his chart plotter, but was off the channel slightly and ran aground. Operator called the Coast Guard immediately to ask for assistance then began taking on water. He called the Coast Guard again to inform them that he was taking on water. The vessel rolled on its side and he was able to stay aboard the vessel by timing his jump with the roll of the vessel. The Coast Guard was able to rescue Operator. Operator refused medical treatment and was fine. 

Operator left Skull Creek Marina in Hilton Head, Sc and was traveling offshore heading towards Florida to put his boat in storage. He came into Ossabaw Sound because it was starting to get late and wanted to anchor inshore for the night. After running aground the vessel capsized and the Coast Guard marked its location. Operator has since been able to get in touch with his insurance company and they filed a claim and worked with Sea Tow in Savannah in order to get the vessel out of the water.


BARDID: GA-2023-0006
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-03-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:50:00
State: GA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Lanier
NearestCityTown: GAINESVILLE
County: HALL
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Missing or inadequate navigation aids
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
RedactedNarrative:
On 03/15/2023 around 1750 hours, Operator, was traveling south bound in his bass boat on the Chattahoochee River near Clarks Bridge when he collided with a steel cable submerged underwater. After the collision, Operator noticed he was hung around the cable with his lower unit of the boat motor. Operator untangled the cable and continued to the boat ramp to examine the damage. Operator did get an estimate for the motor to be repaired and it was estimated to have $6,150.00 worth of damage. 

Operator stated he made contact with Olympic Park due to the cable being attached to the property at this location. Both parties have spoken about the incident and Operator has received a partial payment from Olympic Park Venue. 

GW spoke with the president of the Olympic Park and he stated there was no damage to the cable. GW spoke with the manager,  and he stated the cable was not damaged as well.


BARDID: GA-2023-0007
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-04-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:45:00
State: GA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Lanier
NearestCityTown: GAINESVILLE
County: HALL
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On 04/15/2023 at approximately 1555 hours, I, Game Warden was dispatched to a boating incident near Laurel Park. Upon arrival, I spoke with the victim. Victim was cruising through the Chattahoochee River channel just north of Laurel Park. Victim stated he had placed his tube inside the vessel and the wind caught the tube blowing it out. As the tube left the stern, the rope that was attached to the tube, wrapped around Victim's left leg and pulled him away from the operator's seat. 

Victim hit his head and he did sustain a laceration to his forehead. Victim's left leg was severely bruised from the hip to the knee. Hall County Fire and EMS arrived at the Laurel Park boat ramp and transported Victim to Northeast Georgia Medical Center in Gainesville for further treatment. The boat motor did have damage on the callan from Victim colliding with it.


BARDID: GA-2023-0008
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-05-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:18:00
State: GA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Lanier
NearestCityTown: GAINESVILLE
County: HALL
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On 05/14/2023 at approximately 1618 hours, I, Game Warden responded to a boating incident that occurred on Lake Lanier in the Chattahoochee River. Upon arrival at the victim's house, I spoke with the son and daughter-in-law who both stated they were heading in from the rain whenever the boat hit a wake which resulted in Victim hitting the back of his head on the gunwale on the port side of the boat. Victim sustained a laceration to the back of his head. The family made it back to their house and met Hall County EMS and Fire. Victim was transported to Northeast Georgia Medical Center for his injury. I spoke with Victim at the hospital and he stated the boat hit a wake which caused him to hit his head on the side of the boat. No damage was observed on the vessel.


BARDID: GA-2023-0010
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-05-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:25:00
State: GA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Lanier
NearestCityTown: FLOWERY BRANCH
County: HALL
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On May 20, 2023 at approximately 16:20 hours, Corporal, and I, Game Warden with the Georgia Department of Natural Resources Law Enforcement Division were patrolling Lake Lanier by vessel near Van Pugh North Park when Cpl. was notified of a boating incident involving two PWC’s with an injury. The area the incident occurred is known as Holiday Marina in the Hall County portion of Lake Lanier. 

Cpl. and I arrived on scene at approximately 16:25 hours and were first on scene. When we arrived, the two PWC’s had drifted to just inside the “No Wake Zone” of the Marina. The two vessels involved were a Blue in color 2000 Bombardier PWC (vessel 1) with a Georgia Registration and a Red in color Yamaha FX Cruiser SVHO PWC with a Georgia Registration (vessel 2). 

When we arrived, operator of V2 was sitting on the Blue PWC with Operator1 (Operator of V1). Operator2 informed us that he needed a tourniquet, and I helped him onto our vessel to take him to shore. Before taking Operator2 back to shore, Corporal told Operator1 to follow us to the gas dock in his PWC.  We got back to shore and handed Operator2 over to Hall County Paramedics and noticed that Operator1 was not with us at the gas dock. We went back to the scene to check if he was still there.  We only found the people who had initially helped at the crash scene. We then obtained witness statements from those that were at the scene at the docks immediately adjacent to the crash scene where V2 was tied up. 

Cpl. then received a call from Sergeant and Game Warden, also with the Georgia Department of Natural Resources Law Enforcement Division, saying Operator1 had gone back to Burton Mill Boat ramp and was taking his PWC out of the water when they arrived. Cpl. and I then traveled to the Burton Mill Boat ramp and I ran SFST’s on Operator1 with negative results.  

When Sgt. asked Operator1 what happened he said Operator2 spun around in front of him and he collided with Operator2.   witness with the Army Corps of Engineers stated that prior to the crash he witnessed Operator1 doing donuts approximately 30 feet from the courtesy dock, clearly within the marked no wake zone. It was later discovered that his kill switch lanyard was also not properly attached to his person. Witness issued Operator1 a verbal warning and the no wake zone and kill switch lanyard purposes were explained to him. We released Operator1 pending further investigation and seized V1 and V2 and brought them back to the DNR facility at Aqualand for evidence storage.

On May 23, 2023 at approximately 1430 hours, Sgt. met with Operator2 at North East Georgia Medical Center to interview him about what happened.  Operator2 informed Sgt. that he was headed towards the no wake zone of Holiday Marina and had come down to near idle speed facing in a southward direction. It was at this moment that he heard an engine near him, so he looked back and saw V1 headed straight towards him. In an effort to get out of the way, Operator2 turned V2 to it’s starboard side, towards the North, to try and get out of the way. V2 didn't make it out of the way in time as V1 struck V2’s starboard side at an approximate 135 degree angle. The collision caused Operator2’s right leg to be broken below his knee. 

It is my opinion based on physical evidence and witness statements obtained through investigation that V1 was traveling at a high rate of speed at the time of the incident.  V1 was either too close behind V2 or the operator of V1, Operator1 was inattentive to what was in front of him.  This reckless operation of V1 led to it colliding with V2.  Additionally, Operator1 had never completed a boater education course as required by state law.

This report is a true and accurate statement bas


BARDID: GA-2023-0011
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-02-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:30:00
State: GA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Seminole
NearestCityTown: DONALSONVILLE
County: SEMINOLE
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
On February 24th, 2023, at approximately 5:50 PM I was informed of bass boat actively sinking close to the bank of Lake Seminole near the Seminole State Park entrance. When I arrived on scene, I observed a vessel partially pulled up onto the bank with the stern (rear) of the boat under water. There were three individuals standing around the boat and I spoke with Operator who informed me that he was the operator of the 1999 Astro bass boat.

	Operator stated that he and his friend were traveling home from the Rays Lake area of Lake Seminole and had just came through the electric Carp Gate. As they approached the highway 253 bridge Operator accelerated the vessel and attempted to pass underneath it. During the acceleration Operator lost control of the vessel and struck one of the bridge pilings. At that time the vessel began taking on water and both, who were not wearing PFDs (life jackets) at the time, exited the vessel and began to swim the vessel towards the bank. Once they made it to shore, they were able to pull the bow (front) of the vessel on to land to keep it from fully submerging.

	I asked Operator if he or occupant were injured at all, and he stated that they were not. I then began a boating safety inspection and asked Operator to Provide me with 2 PFDs, a throwable PFD, and a fire extinguisher. Operator was able to provide two Coast Guard approved life jackets but was not able to locate a throwable PFD or a fire Extinguisher. I asked Operator if he possessed a Boating Safety Certification and he stated that he had never taken Boater Safety.

	Citations were issued to Operator for failure to meet boater education requirements and operating within 100' of an object above idle speed.

	The following day on February 25th, 2023, Operator along with the owner of the vessel were able to pump enough water out of the boat and use the trolling motor to operate the vessel to the nearest landing at Seminole State Park, where they loaded the vessel onto its trailer. Once the vessel was out of the water, I was able to photograph the damage to the hull which consisted of several large cracks in the fiberglass on the rear starboard (right) side. 


BARDID: GA-2023-0012
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-06-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:50:00
State: GA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Seminole
NearestCityTown: BAINBRIDGE
County: DECATUR
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: Y
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent3: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On June 11th, 2023, at approximately 5:55 PM, Corporal and I were patrolling Lake Seminole near the Bainbridge Boat Basin when we were flagged down by occupants of a bass tracker pontoon boat under the north train trestle. As we approached the vessel, we observed substantial damage to the front of the boat, and it appeared that the vessel had struck the piling of the train trestle head on. I saw that two adult females were laying on the deck while two adult males and two juvenile females tried to render aid. 

	As we pulled alongside the vessel, I asked how many people were injured and Operator stated that both of the adult females were injured. Victim1 complained that her arm was broken and was holding it tightly against her body. Victim2 stated that she had hit her head and that she could not stand and did not know if she could stand. I immediately communicated to dispatch that an EMS unit was needed and asked them to meet us at Bainbridge Marina. Cpl. and I then assisted Victim2 and Victim1 onto our patrol vessel and transported them to the Marina and assisted in transferring them from our vessel to EMS personnel at the landing. 

	Cpl. remained with the injured females and Sergeant and I returned to the scene of the boating incident to continue the investigation. The vessel, although damaged, was still stable and floating upright and Sgt. and I decided to tow it back to the Bainbridge Boat Basin so that it would not become a hazard for other boaters. The two juveniles and Occupant1 boarded our patrol vessel while Operator, who stated he was the operator, remained on board the pontoon boat to steer the vessel while being towed. While in route to the Boat Basin I asked Occupant1 to provide a written statement about the incident. His statement is as follows: 

	"Occupant2 and myself were riding tube. I thought we were going to hit the trees when he (Operator) was turning us around, so I pulled me and Occupant2 off the tube and into water. When I surfaced, I saw the boat against piling and only Occupant3 standing. I started to swim to the boat and realized Operator was in the water. He got in the boat before me and was checking on the ladies. When I got on the boat, both women were in the floor. We started checking on them and that’s when the Game Wardens showed up"

	Once at the Boat Basin I asked Operator to provide a written statement on the incident and a description of where the passengers on board the vessel were seated at the time of the crash (see attached statement for diagram). He provided the following:

	"I was driving with the tube behind me and when I turned around and the pole was there. It threw me out of the boat, so I swam back to the boat and climbed on and found mom (Victim2) was hurt and so was victim. I checked the girls and helped mom and then we waved down marine patrol."

	I advised Operator that his boat would be transported to and stored in our boat house at Seminole State Park until the completion of the boating incident report and he stated that was fine. Corporal and Game Warden completed an inventory sheet on the vessel before placing it in storage.

	Both Victim1 and Victim2 were transported to Tallahassee Memorial Hospital for treatment. Victim2 suffered only minor scrapes on her head and soreness from the wreck. She was discharged from the Tallahassee Memorial Hospital after receiving a tetanus vaccination. Victim1 suffered a broken humerus, which required surgery. She had a bracket and several screws placed to correct the break before being discharged the following day. (pictures of X-Rays provided by Victim1 are attached.

	Operator was issued one citation for the 100-foot law violation and I released his vessel to him on June 20th, 2023.


BARDID: GA-2023-0013
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-06-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:00:00
State: GA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Satilla River
NearestCityTown: ATKINSON
County: BRANTLEY
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: Y
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
CoordinatesConfidence: C
RedactedNarrative:
On the evening of 6/30/23, Sgt received a call of a vessel incident at warner's landing on the Satilla River in Brantley County. Game Wardens responded. It was discovered that Operator had fell off the PWC while operating and came up once, then went under and was not seen again. The wife and son were asked questions about what happened, with the son being an eye witness. 

Son said that Operator was across the river on the PWC, while Son was standing on the dock. He saw Operator hit the throttle and the PWC turned violently, throwing Operator off of it. Operator was not wearing a PFD, and began floating down river. Then Son realized Operator began to struggle to stay above water and jumped in after him. When Son came back up from diving in, he looked for Operator again just down river and was unable to locate him. He then swam to the disabled PWC, as the kill switch had been removed from Operator falling in, and climbed up on it and continued to look for Operator. He floated down river a ways until he came upon subject1, who towed him back to the dock at the residence, in which the family then called 911. Operator was wearing green shorts and a long sleeve shirt. 

After speaking with Subject1, he said that he had saw Operator putting the jet ski in at warner's landing and seemed intoxicated at the time, as he helped push the PWC off the ramp as Operator was on it. He also said that Son was acting like he was in shock, getting only a few words out of him about his father falling off and is missing in the river.

Sgt. also spoke with the wife who mentioned the same story as Son, as she was told by him, being the only eyewitness. She had mentioned that she had argued with Operator earlier about putting the PWC into the water and him operating it, as he had been drinking some that day. Come to find out later, she had mentioned to others that Operator had many more alcoholic drinks than described to Sgt at the time of the interview. She confirmed the outfit that Operator had on at the time as well. 

One vessel was used on the night of 6/30 to attempt to locate the individual, with no success. The search was called off at midnight, with the search again resuming at 0700 hours the next day. Game Wardens conducted the patrols, along with Brantley EMS, and Wayne County EMS. DNR aviation is coming this afternoon to assist.

On the morning of 7/2/23, the body was discovered about a quarter mile down river from where he was last seen going under the water. It was discovered by Wayne County EMA, and assisted by DNR vessels.


BARDID: GA-2023-0016
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-05-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:00:00
State: GA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Seminole
NearestCityTown: BAINBRIDGE
County: DECATUR
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: Y
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with floating object
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
RedactedNarrative:
On May 7, 2023, at approximately 14:15 hours, I was notified of a boating incident that had occurred on the Flint River in Bainbridge.  It was reported that it was a single vessel incident with injuries, and that the vessel was being towed in by another vessel to the Earle May Boat Basin.  

Corporal responded to the Boat Basin along with Decatur County First Responders.  Once the operator of the vessel arrived at the Boat Basin, it was found that the passenger had suffered an injury to his back and shoulder from a prop strike.  

Operator1 stated he was traveling north on the Flint River in Bainbridge when he noticed what looked to be a stick floating in the river.  As he approached closer, he noticed it was a large log floating and was not able to avoid the log.  

The foot of the outboard motor struck the log causing the motor to become unattached from the vessel and flip into the stern of the vessel, and the prop of the motor struck victim on the right side of his back causing injury.  Operator1 was unharmed, and the vessel had no damage other than needing the motor to be remounted.  Victim was transported to Memorial Hospital and Manor for treatment. 

	Cpl. went to Memorial Hospital to get a statement from Victim and to get the medical release forms filled out and signed by Victim.  Victim’s statement matched the statement Operator1 had given.  On May 8, 2023, I went to Memorial Hospital to get the medical records for Victim.  See attachments in the report for medical records and pictures.  Victim was treated for his injuries and released from the hospital on the evening of the incident.


BARDID: GA-2023-0017
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-05-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:30:00
State: GA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Satilla River
NearestCityTown: WAYCROSS
County: WARE
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: Y
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Grounding
RedactedNarrative:
operator operated a 1436 aluminum John boat in the Satilla River upstream from the GA Hwy 158 boat landing. The boat had a 25 horsepower 4 stroke motor. When Subject let off the throttle, The boat  began taking water over the transom. The boat began to sink. Subject was able to make it to a dry spot on the bank and remained there until daylight. Subject started walking out of the river bottoms and was located by a Ware County deputy. Subject got checked out by Ware EMS, and was released with no injuries.
The boat and motor are estimated to be valued at $3500


BARDID: GA-2023-0018
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-05-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:00:00
State: GA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Lanier
NearestCityTown: GAINESVILLE
County: HALL
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On May 25, 2023 at approximately 20:00 hours, Corporal and I, Game Warden with the Georgia Department of Natural Resources Law Enforcement Division received a call from a Sheriff's Deputy about someone they had just pulled over.  The person they pulled over informed them that they were on the way to the hospital because of a pwc accident on Lake Lanier. I arrived at the Emergency room at Northeast Georgia Medical Center at approximately 20:30 hours and interviewed the Victim. The victim informed me that she was riding on the back of a PWC and didn’t know what happened. I was able to meet with the people that brought her to the hospital. They informed Cpl. and I that they did not know the other operator well at all and didn’t know his last name. After more questioning, Operator1 admitted that he did know who the other operator was but was told to lie about who they were.

After obtaining written witness statements from Operator1 (operator of V1), Corporal and I went to operator of V2’s house to obtain a witness statement and to question him further. Witnesses stated that operator of V1 was following operator of V2 around a bend. The victim lost her grip and fell into the water as operator of V1 was coming around the bend behind them and struck the victim with V1 while she was in the water. Operator of V2 came around and got her out of the water and operator of V1 and V2 went back to the boat ramp and operator of V1 and his passenger took the victim to the hospital while operator of V2 put V1 and V2 back on the trailer.

After speaking with the victims father, she might require some minor cosmetic surgery, but the victim is expected to be okay.

	Operator of V1, was issued 3 citations. The citations include: Reckless Operation of a Vessel or Other Water Device, Failure To Meet Boating Education Requirements, and Interference With Performance of a Rangers Duties. 
	Operator of V2, was issued 2 citations. The citations include: Failure To Meet Boating Education Requirements, and Operating Vessel With Expired Registration.


BARDID: GA-2023-0019
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-06-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:05:00
State: GA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Suwanee River
NearestCityTown: FARGO
County: CLINCH
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: Y
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Restricted vision
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
RedactedNarrative:
At approximately 1740hrs on June 25, 2023 Corporal was notified of a boating incident that occurred on the Suwannee River in Fargo, Georgia. The incident was described to be a two vessel collision; however, injuries and damage were unknown. 

Enforcement arrived at the scene at approximately 1820hrs. One of the vessel operators was still at the scene, this was 17 year old. Victim refused EMS and had minor cuts and bruises across his back and right shoulder. 

Victim explained the collision as him traveling downriver in his tiller steer vessel at approximately 15mph. Victim said he approached a right hand turn in the river hugging the right side of the river going around a blind curve. When he began around the curve he stated that a boat with a young female driver was approaching him quickly. In an act to attempt to avoid a collision Victim made a sharp left hand turn. Upon doing so the females boat went on top of his boat and ejected him. 

Victim said the male passenger in the females boat took over driving after the collision. They stayed in the area, but did not assist him in anyway of getting back to or back into his boat. 

The male and female belonging to the other vessel had already left the scene when Game Wardens arrived. Clinch County Deputy conducted a traffic stop shortly after the call came out on this subject. Deputy received all of the information and relayed that to Game Wardens. 

Sgt. and GW went to the residence to interview the male and female involved in the incident. Subject1 stated that 12 year old Operator1 was the driver of the stick steer vessel at the time of the collision, but she was only driving about 7mph. Subject1 stated that the other boat was traveling at a high rate of speed around the blind curve striking them almost head on with little to no reaction time for either vessel. He stated that Victim, the other operator was ejected and that they stayed with him for around 15 minutes talking to make sure he was fine. 

Operator1 was also interviewed and stated that the other vessel was traveling very fast and they did not see each other in time to react. She states that she believes the front of her boat went over the top of the other boat. 

Minor injuries and minor damage was sustained to either vessel during this incident. Photos of both vessels, photos of injuries, and statements were obtained at the scene.


BARDID: GA-2023-0020
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-06-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:27:00
State: GA
NameOfBodyOfWater: FLINT RIVER WMA
NearestCityTown: BAINBRIDGE
County: DECATUR
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: Y
HazardousWaters: Y
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
RedactedNarrative:
At approximately 11:25 a.m. on June 9, 2023, Game Warden was notified of a boating incident that occurred on the Flint River in Decatur County, just south of the Mitchell County line. It was determined that the 18-foot Crownline contained 6 passengers and the operator was traveling approximately 30 mph when it struck several large rocks ejecting one of the 7 passengers and causing extensive damage to the foot on the motor rendering it inoperable. There was also minor damage to the fiberglass hull. 

One of the occupants, a 55-year-old female, was thrown from the vessel and was able to re-board without injury. GW, Sgt. responded by vessel and transported the passengers, including 3 juveniles, to a nearby landing. I transported the 55-year-old female and another occupant to the Bainbridge Boat Basin to retrieve their vehicle and boat trailer. The vessel was taken to a repair shop before I was able to take photographs. Photographs of the damage where provided on June 16, 2023 at 6:06 p.m.
	On June 10, 2023, I met with the operator and issued him a citation for operating a vessel with insufficient PFDs and a warning for operating a vessel without registration.


BARDID: GA-2023-0022
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2023-05-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
State: GA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Saint Catherine's Sound
NearestCityTown: RICEBORO
County: LIBERTY
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: Y
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Falls overboard
RedactedNarrative:
On 05/03/2023 I, Game Warden with the GA Department of Natural Resources Law Enforcement Division (GA DNR LED) was notified by Game Warden about a boating incident that occurred off St. Catherine sound on 05/02/2023.

     Contact information was given to me from Game Warden who got the information from Coast Guard sector Charleston. I called, and interviewed him on 05/03/2023 to gather information on what happened leading up to the vessel sinking. Operator1 said he and his fiancé were 2.5 miles from shore near buoy #7 in St. Catherine Sound. 

They were traveling down the coast from New England. He was operating his vessel from the upper level when he noticed the boat was struggling to move forward. When he looked down at the main deck, he noticed the vessel was taking on water. Operator1 called mayday to the Coast Guard before deploying the emergency dingy. 

Operator1 put on his life jacket after realizing the boat was sinking.  Coast Guard responded via helicopter. and Game Warden arrived to rescue both persons, and the pet dog. Operator1 described the weather as seas 2-6 ft and winds from 15-25 mph. The vessel he was operating was a 2014 Aquila catamaran that was 48 feet named Pisces. It had two inboard engines that produced a total hp of 660. 

The estimated speed before the boat sank was less than 10 mph. Operator1 refused to provide insurance policy number and did not know the vessel document number. Operator1 said that the vessel was totaled, and he estimated damage was $500,000. 

     On 5/8/2023 I spoke with the other occupant on board the vessel. Occupant said they were heading into the channel to anchor for the day. She was on the upper deck when she heard an alarm go off. When she looked down at the main deck, she could see water getting into the vessel. Operator1 called mayday on a Garmin device to the Coast Guard. Occupant who was already wearing her life jacket tried to enter the emergency dingy. She said they waited for approximately, 20-25 minutes for the Coast Guard to arrive. Occupant said the weather was windy and high waves. While trying to get in the dingy it flipped over onto her striking her back. The force from the dingy hitting her caused 5 broken ribs and a collapsed lung. Occupant was admitted into the hospital for three days.


BARDID: GA-2023-0023
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-04-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:42:00
State: GA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Savannah River
NearestCityTown: SAVANNAH
County: CHATHAM
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: Y
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Equipment failure
EquipmentFailure: Auxiliary
OtherEquipmentFailure: mooring lines
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On April 22, 2023 at approximately 1342 hours, I, Game Warden received a call in reference to a vessel that broke loose in the Savannah River. Vessel 2 was tied up approximately 200 ft West of the Yacht named Pinguinito (Vessel 1).

 Vessel 2 broke loose from a dock off of River Street as the occupants were enjoying River Street. The vessel went with an outgoing current going down stream and went bow to bow with the pinguinito then spun around and the stern hit the yacht and continued flowing down stream where the boat crew was able to attempt to secure it. 

The owner of Vessel 2 stated that his lines appeared to have been cut and is claiming no damage to his vessel but the owner of vessel 1 is claiming $5200 worth of damage. There were no occupants on Vessel 2 and no injuries to anyone involved. Upon examining pictures of the lines, I was unable to determine if the vessel's lines were cut or if the vessel broke loose.


BARDID: GA-2023-0024
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-04-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:30:00
State: GA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Bull River
NearestCityTown: SAVANNAH
County: CHATHAM
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: Y
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
"On 04/23/2023, Marine patrol responded to a call about an injured person at the Savannah Boathouse. Upon arrival, Victim was being treated by EMS. Operator1 stated that she was driving the boat, with Victim, (mother) as a passenger, in the St. Augustine Creek. As they were making their way around a curve, she observed a large charter boat traveling in the opposite direction. 

Operator1 stated that she took the turn wide to keep a safe distance. She then stated that she saw a very large wake behind the vessel and hit it before she could avoid it. When she made contact with the wake, it caused her boat to rise and fall rapidly, throwing Victim up and then slamming her into the seat causing possible injury to her back. 

The boat also shut off and could not be restarted. Operator1 called the Savannah Boathouse who in turn called EMS and sent a boat to tow them to the marina. Victim was transported to St Joseph's Hospital for treatment, The Marina staff stated that the impact caused the battery to disconnect. There was no other damage caused. Operator1 stated that she believed the charter boat "Bella" was now docked at the Bull River Marina."

I, Game Warden received this statement from Chatham County Marine Patrol officer. Due to the complainant seeking medical attention a report was done by the GA department of natura resources.

Operator1 also stated that she was unsure if she came off the throttle or not.


BARDID: GA-2023-0025
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-06-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:40:00
State: GA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Other
NearestCityTown: TYBEE ISLAND
County: CHATHAM
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: Y
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Equipment failure
EquipmentFailure: Auxiliary
OtherEquipmentFailure: lithium battery
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (non-fuel)
RedactedNarrative:
On 06/05/2023 I, Game Warden was on a water patrol in Chatham County when I received a phone call from Chatham County Marine Patrol Officer in reference to a vessel that was on fire in Chimmney Creek in Chatham County. I was informed that nobody was injured or thrown into the water. Officer1 was already in route to the incident by land and I was going to respond by water, but would be unable to get into the creek being that it was low tide. Officer1 was able to get onscene and the fire was already put out. He was able to collect information for me.

	The owner of the vessel was on the vessel working on updating the chart plotter while the vessel was at his dock and as he was updating the chart plotter he was charging his battery. Owner stepped away from the vessel for approximately 10-15 minutes and his neighbor came over and informed Owner that his vessel was on fire. Owner's neighbor was able to get the fire department out and the fire department put the fire out. Officer1 received the call an hour after the fire began. The vessel is a total loss. Owner could not determine exactly what could have started the fire but says that it could be the lithium batteries that he put in there for the trolling motor. Nobody was injured and the vessel burned almost to the water line, but is not sinking and Owner is getting his vessel out of the water. I spoke with owner and he was able to confirm the information that I received.


BARDID: GA-2023-0026
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-06-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 08:30:00
State: GA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Savannah River
NearestCityTown: TYBEE ISLAND
County: CHATHAM
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: Y
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
On June 18th, 2023 at 1030 hours Corporal with The Georgia Department of Natural Resources Law Enforcement Division, spoke with the Coast Guard regarding a 27 foot vessel striking the Georgia Side of the North Jetties in the Savannah River at 0830 hours that morning. 

The operator was a 23 year old male who was out with 4 other family members. Operator1 was going east in the Savannah River and was unfamiliar with the waterways in the area when he veered off too far to the left striking the North Jetties. 

The vessel crossed over the jetties onto the South Carolina side and began taking on water. The family was able to get on the jetties until they were rescued by two fisherman who heard them asking for assistance on channel 16. They were on the fisherman's vessel until the Coast Guard arrived. One of the daughters was 16 years of age and was sent to Memorial Hospital for a check up and it was determined that she has a strained neck. The vessel was floated by sea tow and is out of the water. Chatham County Marine Patrol responded and was able to take pictures of the vessel as it was in the water. Victim was not admitted to the hospital.

	I, Game Warden with the Georgia Department of Natural Resources Law Enforcement Division, spoke with the owner of the vessel which was the operator's father. Father explained everything that occurred as it happened and I was able to collect information for report purposes. I checked to see if his son had a valid boater's safety course and he did not. When I questioned the father and the son about it, they were unsure if he had taken one or not, but did not believe that Operator1 had taken one. On June 19th, 2023 I met the both Operator1 and father and gathered more information. I then had them write witness statements. I issued Operator1 a citation for failure to meet boating education requirements.


