# ReleasableAccidents

BARDID: IL-2023-0130
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 02:40:00
State: IL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Michigan
NearestCityTown: Chicago
County: Cook
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause3: Drug
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent3: Capsizing
CoordinatesConfidence: C
RedactedNarrative:
This Investigation is still pending and the information provided in this narrative is just a summary of the events that occurred. Any additional information will documented in a Field Report.  

On 07/28/2023 at approximately 7:20AM, I, Conservation Police Officer, was notified by IDNR Captain via email of a boat incident that occurred on Lake Michigan - Chicago. I arrived at the Chicago Marine Safety Station at approximately 9:00AM and gathered information regarding the incident. I was provided the Chicago Marine Safety Activity Report, Chicago Police Original Case Incident Report, Chicago''s Event History Table (5 Pages), and Chicago''s Service Call. I arrived at Northwestern Memorial Hospital at approximately 9:55AM to interview the occupants of the boat incident, CPOT went to Stroger Hospital to interview the other victims there. 

I first interviewed three people. I was advised by all 3 that Operator was the owner/operator of the boat at the time of the crash and they were leaving the Play Pen to go back to Diversey Harbor before striking the breakwall. No boat information could be confirmed at this time. CPO and I video and audio recorded the interview with Operator at the hospital, read him miranda. Operator''s attorney was present and he did not make a statement. I read Operator the Traffic Crash Warning to Motorist and provided him with a copy. I advised him of his requirement of filing a Boat Accident Report and advised where the form can be located.   

Chicago Police Dispatch Event History Table states it received a 9-1-1 call on 07/28/2023 at 2:42AM from a female caller, caller advised she was involved in a boat accident and was transferred to the Chicago Fire Department (CFD), and the caller hung-up before speaking with them. At 3:26AM, Dispatch received another phone call, caller stated her white boat crashed in the lake close to the Drake hotel near the break wall, U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) and CPD Marine Unit(CPDMU) was notified. At 3:28AM, CPD Dispatch left a voicemail for the Department of Natural Resources at our Chicago Office location.

CPDMU Marine Safety Activity Report - Event#: 01621 Stated the following: 
On 07/28/2023 at 3:27AM, CPDMU - RESOURCE Boat received notification of an overturned vessel near 1000 N. Lake Shore Drive - Chicago - Lake Michigan.  Marine Unit Headquarters (MUHQ) received a call of people stranded on the breakwall after their boat sank. MUHQ located one of the occupants through MUHQ cameras, the occupant was trying to swim to shore from the breakwall. 

MUHQ directed resource to the occupant trying to swim to shore. MO entered the water and rescued them and turned them over to CFD. Resource proceeded to the breakwall to search for the other occupants. CFD advised they removed 5 people from the east breakwall, and an occupant was still missing from the overturned vessel. They stated it was a female wearing a white shirt. RESOURCE conducted a search of the breakwall and located an overturned vessel approximately a half mile from the Chicago Harbor Lighthouse. RESOURCE conducted a search of the area with negative results for the missing occupant. Search and tow operations were limited due to serve weather. Per CFD the rescued occupants were taken to Northwestern Memorial Hospital and John H. Stroger, Jr. Hospital. CFD advised they deployed divers and located the missing female who was pinned near the stern of the vessel on the breakwall. She was unable to be recovered due to the position of the vessel and severe weather conditions.


BARDID: IL-2023-0131
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-08-19 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:00:00
State: IL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Michigan
NearestCityTown: Chicago
County: Cook
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause3: Weather
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1=Green Boat
Vessel 2=Red Boat

On August 19th, 2023 at approximately 4:00 PM, Vessel 1, V1 Operator, was traveling west in the fairway between dock C and D in DuSable Harbor. In an attempt enter slip C-XX stern first, V1 Operator approached the stern of Vessel 2 (owned by V2 Owner) which was docked in D-XX. V1 Operator stated to the Chicago Marine Unit that he had his hand on the throttle. He explained he slipped and caused the throttle to move forward, thus his vessel approached vessel 2 at a high rate of speed. 

Vessel 1''s anchor came into contact with Vessel 2''s stern. When this occurred, the bow of vessel 2 made contact with the wooden dock. This caused scratches and paint damage. Only one individual was on board vessel 2 at the time of collision, but the vessel was not operating. Each party involved refused medical attention. Vessel 1 owner was attempted to be contacted within 3 days of the incident, but no response was ever given. 


On October 4th, 2023, I received an email from owner of vessel 2, which contained the cost of repair at Crowley''s Yacht Yard, the cost of materials from Chicago Marine Canvas, a towing bill from Great Lake Towing, and an invoice from V2 Owner in relation to transport costs. The amount from all bills totaled is $69,450.65. The following receipts are attached. A copy of the Chicago Police Department''s Marine Unit Prelimary Boat Accident Report which was taken on the day of this incident has also been included.

Great Lakes Marine Service LLC Towing: $1,687.50
Chicago Marine Canvas: 2,490.61
Crowley''s Yacht Yard: $64,332.54
Invoice for transport from V2 Owner: $940.00

END OF NARRATIVE----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


BARDID: IL-2023-0132
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-09-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:37:00
State: IL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Fox River
NearestCityTown: McHenry
County: McHenry
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent3: Capsizing
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
RedactedNarrative:
Boat traveling northbound along the Fox River, just south of the Snuggery Restaurant in McHenry on September 30, 2023, at approximately 7:37pm.  

According to witnesses, the operator was traveling at a high rate of speed then abruptly turned around in a figure S type fashion before hitting the western shoreline at an approximate 90 degree angle, causing the boat to become airborne before striking the ground approximately 60 feet from the initial shoreline impact.  

Estimated speed of the boat upon impact was 40-50mph.   Both occupants were ejected from the boat and the boat apparently rolled over, causing the entire top portion of the boat to become separated from the hull.  The female occupant was pinned underneath the hull and died on scene.  The male operator was transported to Advocate Condell Medical in Libertyville were he later died.


BARDID: IL-2023-0133
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-08-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:30:00
State: IL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Michigan
NearestCityTown: Winthrop Harbor
County: Lake
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Equipment failure
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause3: Weather
EquipmentFailure: Sail dismasting
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Collision with fixed object
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 could not demast his sail and attempted to dock boat with sails still up.  A gust of wind came through and the operator of Vessel 1 lost control and struck Vessel 2, which was docked and unoccupied.  Vessel 1 struck the dock several more times and after approximately 20 minutes, moved into it''s assigned slip.


BARDID: IL-2023-0135
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-06-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:00:00
State: IL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Pistakee Lake
NearestCityTown: Fox Lake
County: Lake
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Electrical
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
RedactedNarrative:
Operator of vessel #1 stated he and his passenger left docks at Famous Freddy''s at 11:00pm on 6/2/23 to go home.  The passenger tripped and fell walking back to midships. Driver was helping passenger and lost control of boat and struck the unknown shore station just north of Freddy''s.  Said his lanyard was attached and should of shut off the motor but did not.  Driver saw significant damage to boat and went directly home.  No injuries.


BARDID: IL-2023-0136
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-06-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 07:12:00
State: IL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Pistakee Lake
NearestCityTown: Fox Lake
County: Lake
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause3: Excessive speed
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
RedactedNarrative:
U1 and U2 were traveling Eastbound on Pistakee Lake, north of Queen Island.  Both units were headed towards Ben Watts marina.  U2 was ahead of U1 in or around a 1:00 or 2:00 position relative to U1.  U2 began to alter course to port as U1 was preparing to pass U2.  U1 failed to yield to U2 and struck U2''s port side across the bow.  U1''s hull snagged and removed the cleat from U2 which tore into the fiberglass hull of U1, causing an appropriate 4ft hole in the starbard side of the vessell.  A passenger of U2 was ejected from the vessel on impact and sustained minor injuries, she was treated on scene.  U1 was cited Improper Overtaking.

U2 had hull damage on left side docking cleat torn off one compartment cover torn off. Damage to left side of hull.


BARDID: IL-2023-0137
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:00:00
State: IL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Twin Lakes
NearestCityTown: Paris
County: Edgar
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentCause3: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
CoordinatesConfidence: C
RedactedNarrative:
On 07/15/2023, at approximately 4:00 PM, two individuals were out testing driving their Jet-Skis near the east boat ramp at Twin Lakes in Paris, IL. 

As both OPERATOR2 and OPERATOR1 were underway, OPERATOR1 was following approximately 10-15 yards behind OPERATOR2, took a right turn heading south out of OPERATOR2S wake getting splashed in the face with water and when he looked up he observed OPERATOR2 make a sharp right turn heading west, resulting in OPERATOR1 smashing into OPERATOR2 ejecting both from their personal watercrafts. 

A bystander who was fishing, could hear OPERATOR2 screaming in pain across the lake. He rushed over to render aid to both OPERATOR2 and OPERATOR1, helped them to shore, calling 911 and applying a makeshift tourniquet out of a T-Shirt to OPERATOR2S leg.  

OPERATOR2 was transported by way of helicopter to Carle Hospital in Urbana, Illinois, sustaining a compound fracture to his leg. 

OPERATOR1 was transported to the local Paris Community Hospital due to minor injuries sustained to his mouth and right hip area. 

At approximately 7:30 PM, myself and CPO met with OPERATOR1 at the Paris Community Hospital to interview him and retrieve written statements. 

Vessel 1, who was being driven by OPERATOR1 was the "Stand on" Vessel, as vessel 2, being drove by OPERATOR2 was the "Give Way" vessel. 

On 07/24/23, at approximately 3:51 PM, I contacted Carle hospital in Urbana, IL, in regards to the condition of OPERATOR2 as they stated he was pronounced deceased at approximately 12:51 AM, on 07/24/23.

On 08/08/2023, at approximately 10:30 AM, I gathered medical records from Paris Community Hospital / Medical Records Department in regards to OPERATOR1 on 07/15/2023. 
- OPERATOR1 never received a Panel Drug Test, as well as, a Serum Alcohol Test

On 08/08/2023, at approximately 1:00 PM, I gathered all medical records from Carle Foundation Hospital / Medical Records Department in Champiagn, IL, in regards to OPERATOR2.
- OPERATOR2 never received a Panel Drug Test, as well as, a Serum Alcohol Test


OPERATOR2 CAUSE OF DEATH: VIA MEDICAL RECORDS DEPARTMENT / CARLE HOSPITAL
- Multi Organ Failure 
- Circulatory Collapse
- Severe Bowel Ischemia 


Medical records regarding OPERATOR2 have been placed into District 11 evidence facility.


Statements are attached to Field Report # 2023-3-627-006BX


BARDID: IL-2023-0138
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-09-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:00:00
State: IL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Mississippi River
NearestCityTown: Grafton
County: Calhoun
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Disclosure: During the active investigation, a PWC parked at Grafton Harbor was identified as Vessel 1. I (Sgt. 1) later discovered the PWC was operated by an acquaintance to the individuals involved. I made contact with the operator of Vessel 1 and arranged to properly document the PWC involved. The following narrative consists of minor changes strictly pertaining to damage accrued to Vessel 1:

At 6:19 PM on September 2, 2023, I (SGT. 1), was dispatched to a personal injury boat accident on the Mississippi River upstream of Grafton. At approximately 6:51 PM, I arrived on scene. The on scene investigation was recorded on my Department issued in-car camera. A copy of the recording is available upon request. The victim and operator of Vessel 1, V1 Operator, was air lifted to Mercy Hospital in St. Louis with a compound fracture to his left leg.  I conducted interviews on scene with the operator of Vessel 2 and Witness. All afformentioned individuals are acquaintances and were operating as a group. I concluded the following:

While individually operating their PWCs on the Mississippi River approximately 1/2 mile downstream of Island 521, V1 Operator swiftly maneuvered his PWC in close proximity to another PWC. After making the turn, V1 Operator continued northbound at an estimated speed of 5-10 MPH. V2 Operator was traveling downstream at an estimate speed of 25 MPH. V1 Operator's attention was focused on another PWC. V2 Operator was unable to avoid the collision. V1 Operator was ejected from the PWC and sustained injury. V2 Operator was uninjured. V1 Operator and V2 Operator' PWCs each sustained significant damage to the hull. V1 Operator was assisted onto another watercraft and transported to Grafton where EMS arrived on scene and ultimately airlifted him from the scene. Medical personel described V1 Operator admitting to consuming alcohol and the odor of alcohol was detected on his breath.

CPO 2 responded to Mercy Hospital to assist with the inevstigation. I assisted V2 Operator with securing his PWC from the river. Closer inspection revealed substantial damage to V2 Operator's PWC. I discovered no immediately obvious damage to V1 Operator's PWC. See attached photographs. 

I relocated to Mercy Hospital. CPO 2 concluded an interview with V1 Operator. V1 Operator's explanation of the incident was consist with interviews conducted on scene. We observed no indicators of alcohol impairment. I provided V1 Operator with a Boat Accident Report before clearing the scene. 

The cause of accident was determined to be operator inattention. Missouri registration was displayed on each PWC. Both operators have applied for a transfer of title. No enforcement action was taken.


BARDID: IN-2023-0001
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-03-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:53:00
State: IN
NameOfBodyOfWater: Goose Creek
NearestCityTown: Patriot
County: Switzerland
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Improper loading
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
RedactedNarrative:
On march 26, 2023 at approximately 1405 hours, i, indiana conservation officer (ico), overheard radio traffic from the switzerland county sheriff's office ddspatch relating to a person missing in the water at the patriot, indiana boat ramp.            
           
I contacted off-duty ico diver by telephone.  ICO1 advised he would be en route but his eta was approximately an hour and a half.  I also contacted ico2 and had him get a boat en route to the scene.  I then proceeded to the boat ramp from vevay, indiana and arrived at approximately 1420 hours.  Upon my arrival, i observed a capsized personal watercraft (pwc) floating in goose creek approximately 90 feet east of the boat ramp.  Switzerland county deputy was on scene interviewing the surviving passenger, who was being treated for hypothermia in a switzerland county ems ambulance.  

Switzerland county deputy briefed me on the incident.  Deputy1 advised a male and female entered the water after the pwc they were on capsized.  Deputy1 said the male victim was missing in the water and the female made it out of the water and was in the ambulance being treated for hypothermia.  Deputy1 also introduced me to subject who claimed to be friends of the victims and the owner of the pwc involved in this incident.                                                                               
                 
Fire and rescue diver arrived on scene and entered goose creek where the surviving victim.  Diver recovered the body of victim approximately fifteen feet from the end of the southern-most boat dock on goose creek in approximately six feet of water.  Victim was immediately administered cpr and other life saving measures by the switzerland county ems.  Deputy1 previously requested med-evac (air methods) who arrived at 1516 hours and flew victim to university of cincinnati hospital in cincinnati, ohio.  Cardiac death was recorded for victim at the university of cincinnati hospital after the rewarming of his body core temperature reached 95 degrees fahrenheit (see hamilton county coroner's report attached).               
                
I then interviewed the owner of the pwc and friend of victim, who was at the boat ramp.  I asked owner for his driver's license and he said his driver's license was suspended, therefore, not in his possession.  Owner said because his driver's license was suspended, he did not operate the pwc or his chevrolet z71 suv, except for backing it down the boat ramp to launch his pwc.  He further claimed he operated his vehicle again from the boat ramp to the parking area.  owner said he purchased the yamaha pwc the day prior to this incident from an individual.   Owner stated person had it advertised on facebook.  Owner said he, victim and victim's girlfriend arrived at the boat ramp earlier this afternoon to test drive his newly purchased pwc.     
       
Owner stated after they arrived at the boat ramp, he backed the trailer with the pwc down the boat ramp while victim waited on the ramp.  Owner said after the pwc was backed into the water, victim got onto the pwc and operated it to the end of the boat dock where girlfriend waited to board the pwc.  Owner said he then drove his vehicle, that was towing the empty pwc trailer, to the parking lot area and parked.  Owner said he walked toward the boat dock to watch victim test drive the pwc.  Owner said he then heard victim and girlfriend yelling for help.  

Owner said he then ran to the boat dock and saw that the pwc was capsized with victim and girlfriend in the water near the end of the southern-most boat dock in goose creek.  Owner said he then attempted to reach them by laying down on the dock and extending his arm to them but they were just out of reach. 

 Owner said he then called 911 while at the same time attempting to locate anything around the boat ramp area that he could extend to them and pull them to safety (see attached 911 call audio).            
Owner said he located a log and again attempted to reach them by going to the end of the dock and extending the log to them, however, he still could not reach them with the log.  Owner said he then went to his vehicle and retrieved a set of jumper cables.  Owner said he returned to the end of the dock where victim and girlfriend were still treading water, near the end of the dock.   Owner said he held one end of the jumper cables and threw the other end to girlfriend.   Owner said girlfriend held on to the jumper cables and he pulled her to the dock and alongside the dock to the shoreline.  Owner stated as he was returning to the end of the dock to rescue victim he sank beneath the surface of the water.  Owner stated he did not have pfds (personal flotation devices) in his possession.  Owner also advised that neither victim nor girlfriend were wearing pfds when they boarded his pwc.  Owner advised that there was no alcohol or drug use prior to this incident.  
               
I attempted to interview girlfriend while she was recovering from hypothermia in the switzerland county ems ambulance, however, due to her condition she was unable to articulate the events leading up to the capsizing of the pwc and i decided to interview her at a later time.      
          
At 1905 hours i received a phone call from the grandmother of victim and his legal guardian until he became an adult.  Grandmother said victim could not swim.  She further advised that she had received information from girlfriend's mother, that indicated owner was not truthful about the events leading up to the capsizing of the pwc and subsequent drowning of victim.  

Grandmother added owner had a suspended driver's license and he operated the pwc on goose creek prior to it being operated by victim.  This is contrary to what owner informed me in my interview with him immediately following the drowning.   

Grandmother also said owner, not victim, drove his chevrolet z71 suv to the patriot boat ramp prior to the drowning.  This is also contrary to what owner informed me during my interview with him.  During that interview owner said since his driver's license was suspended, he had victim drive his chevrolet z71 suv from the girlfriend residence in patriot to the patriot boat ramp.  Grandmother felt that owner should be charged with those violations, and that owner should be criminally charged with the death of her grandson, victim.  Grandmother also sent me a series of video recordings that owner reportedly recorded and sent to girlfriend's cell phone. This video footage allegedly shows victim operating the pwc on goose creek prior to the drowning.  Grandmother also sent a series of text messages advising victim had diminished mental capacity, was incapable of making sound decisions and that owner had knowledge of those (see attached text messages, emails and video recordings from Grandmother). 
              
On april 1, 2023 i interviewed owner for a second time and this interview was audio recorded. To assist the reader, the following is a synopsis of certain pertinent information.  This synopsis is not intended to be verbatim or a transcript.  For additional detailed information refer to the audio recording.


BARDID: IN-2023-0002
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-05-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:20:00
State: IN
NameOfBodyOfWater: White River
NearestCityTown: Indianapolis
County: Marion
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Improper loading
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
RedactedNarrative:
Prelude:   
On may 11th, 2023 i responded to a boat accident with reports of a possible victim in the water in indianapolis, in. It was later determined that the victim drowned as a result of falling into the water.  
      
Details of investigation/ incident:  
        on may 11th, 2023, while on routine patrol in marion county, i indiana conservation received information from ico dispatch about a boat accident that occurred on the white river. The initial call came in from marion county dispatch at 7:20pm of a boat accident with two people in the water with a possible drowning. Ico dispatch advised that indianapolis fire department and indianapolis metropolitan police department were already on scene. Ico dispatch also advised the location to be 2006 white river parkway. I patrolled lights and sirens to the scene. Upon arrival, i advised ico dispatch that i was on scene. I then made contact with officer with impd. Officer gave a summary of what happened. Officer was accompanied by one of the victims. After speaking with officer, i spoke with subject1 about the incident to gather more information.  

Subject1 advised that he had been fishing on the white river all day and that his friend had called him multiple times earlier that day. Subject1 also stated that victim had been asking him to take him out on his boat fishing. Subject1 then informed me that he ignored victim's phone calls about taking him on the boat out of apprehension. Subject1 informed me that victim had very little experience in being on boats. Subject1 also informed me that his lack of experience is why he had not taken him out on the boat prior. Subject1 then stated that after ignoring several of victim's phone calls, that he reluctantly answered the phone and agreed to take victim out on his boat.   

Subject1 stated that when victim arrived that he came back to the shore to pick him up. Subject1 then stated that victim entered his boat and sat facing the stern of the boat facing towards him. Subject1 stated that as they launched from the shore and were underway that a splash of water came over the front of the boat, causing victim to stand up in the boat. 

Subject1 informed me that the water coming over the front of the boat startled victim. Subject1 stated because of victim standing up it caused a severe shift in weight in the boat causing him to lose his balance and causing the boat to flip over. 

Subject1 states that as the boat flipped over, that he was able to swim back to the boat and climb on the bottom of the boat. He states that victim had fallen too far away from him and the boat. Subject1 advised that he attempted to throw his anchor rope floating nearby towards victim, but it wasn't long enough to reach him. Subject1 then stated that he continued to throw the rope towards victim until his anchor got stuck and he was unable to retrieve anymore rope. Subject1 stated that victim was panicking in the water and that he struggled to stay afloat. Subject1 states that victim struggled for approximately 10 minutes before he went underwater.   

 after speaking with subject1, i observed ifd dive personnel on scene near the water's edge actively searching for victim, who at this point had been in the water for approximately 45 minutes. At 7:45pm ifd dive personnel recovered victim approximately 40 feet away from the bank in 7-10 feet of water. Ifd personnel on scene brought victim onto the bank and began life saving efforts to bring him back. After performing chest compressions and defibrillations, victim was transported to eskenazi health where he was later pronounced deceased.  

After victim was transferred to hospital, i began to document the scene with photographs and gathered gps coordinates. I then made contact with a second witness on scene. I asked subject2 what happened and what had he saw. Subject2 advised that he is currently homeless and that he was sitting outside of his camper trailer underneath the west street bridge when he observed subject1 fishing from his boat. 

Subject2 then stated that he went inside to lay down. Subject2 states that approximately 30 minutes later he observed through his blinds victim getting into subject1's boat. Subject2 stated that he laid back down for a moment, then he heard what he believed someone say “oh!” And that caused him to look back out of his blinds.   
Subject2 advised that he saw victim stand up suddenly and the boat flip soon after. Subject2 stated that he rushed out to the water's edge to try and help, he stated that he ran into the water approximately knee deep before the bank dropped off suddenly. Subject2 stated that he attempted to talk victim to shore but victim was unable to comprehend what he was saying. Subject2 states that victim was panicking on the surface of the water in front of him and that he was hardly staying on the surface. Subject2 states that he attempted to reach victim but he was too far off the bank to reach him.  
 
Subject2 then states that another bystander came to try and help with a long stick, he states that he and the bystander attempted to get the stick to victim. Subject2 stated that victim in his panic was able to grab the stick for a moment but he broke the stick. Subject2 stated that after victim broke the stick that he stopped splashing in the water and slowly sank beneath the surface of the water. 
  
After speaking with subject2 and getting his statement i spoke with a third witness. Subject3 stated that she and her three sons were fishing nearby, when she observed out the corner of her eye a boat flipping over in the water near the bridge. Subject3 stated that her oldest son ran down to try and help victim who was in distress in the water. Subject3 states that her son grabbed a large stick and attempted to get it to victim. She stated that the stick was just barely long enough to reach victim. Subject3 stated that she observed the stick as it got closer to victim that it snapped and that's when she saw victim go underwater.  

After speaking with all the witnesses on scene, i observed ifd personnel towing in subject1's boat. When they got to shore, i documented the boat bearing registration with additional photographs. I spoke with the ifd personnel who recovered the boat, and they stated the boat was caught on something in the water and that they had a hard time dislodging the boat.  

Later that evening i spoke with the coroner who gave her preliminary ruling of the drowning to be accidental.  
As of 5/19/2023 i am waiting for the marion county coroner's report.  
   
No charges will be filed. No further actions required.


BARDID: IN-2023-0003
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-05-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:00:00
State: IN
NameOfBodyOfWater: Dogwood Lake
WaterConditions: Unknown
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Unknown
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Hull failure
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
RedactedNarrative:
ON THURSDAY MAY 18TH 2023 I (INDIANA CONSERVATION OFFICER 1) WAS DISPATCHED TO DOGWOOD LAKE AT GLENDALE FISH AND WILDLIFE AREA.   I ARRIVED AROUND 3:30 PM AND SAW A BRIGGEMANS TOWING TRUCK BACKED UP THE WATER.  THERE WAS A BOAT NEXT TO THE TOW TRUCK THAT WAS ON A TRAILER.      
 
THE INSIDE OF THE BOAT WAS WET AND THERE WAS AQUATIC VEGETATION INSIDE OF IT.  A DOOR TO THE LIVE WELL, A DOOR TO A STORAGE COMPARTMENT AND A PASSENGER SEAT CUSHION WERE MISSING.      
 
THE BLUE BOAT WAS MADE BY STRATOS AND HAD AN INDIANA REGISTRATION NUMBER.  A HULL IDENTIFICATION NUMBER WAS LISTED.  
 
THE TRAILER WAS GRAY IN COLOR AND ALSO MADE BY STRATOS. IT  HAD A PLATE NUMBER AND HAD A VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION NUMBER.      
 
I SPOKE WITH TWO SUBJECTS AT THE RAMP THAT WERE IN THE BOAT WHEN IT CAPSIZED.  THE OPERATOR WAS IDENTIFIED AS OPERATOR AND THE PASSENGER AS PASSENGER.  BOTH MEN WERE STAYING AT CAMPSITE AND WE MOVED TO THAT LOCATION TO TALK ABOUT THE ACCIDENT.   
 
ACCORDING TO OPERATOR AND PASSENGER THEY WERE HEADING TO A COVE ON DOGWOOD LAKE NEAR THE CAMPGROUND AND WERE NAVIGATING THOUGH TREE STUMPS.  AT ONE POINT THEY HIT A STUMP AND GOT STUCK ON IT FOR A SHORT TIME.  AFTER HITTING THE STUMP THEY NOTICED THE BOAT SEEMED TO BE TAKING ON WATER AND SITTING LOWER IN THE WATER THAN BEFORE.    
 
PASSENGER MOVED TO THE FRONT OF THE BOAT BECAUSE THE BACK OF THE BOAT WAS GETTING TO CLOSE TO THE WATER LINE.  WHEN HE DID THIS THE BOAT CAPSIZED AND BOTH MEN WENT INTO THE WATER.  BOATS THAT WERE NEARBY CAME TO ASSIST AND GOT BOTH MEN TO SAFETY AND TOWED THE CAPSIZED BOAT TO THE RAMP.    
 
WHILE SPEAKING TO THE WRECKER DRIVER HE MENTIONED THERE APPEARED TO BE DAMAGE TO THE BOTTOM OF THE BOAT BEFORE THEY ROLLED IT OVER.  I CRAWLED UNDERNEATH THE OPERATOR BOAT AND COULD SEE PAINT THAT WAS BUBBLED AND WHAT LOOKED TO BE RUST.  IT WAS APPARENT THE BOAT HAD BEEN WORKED ON BEFORE AND THE HULL WAS NOT IN ITS ORIGINAL CONDITION.  OPERATOR ADVISED HE HAS OWNED THE BOAT FOR ABOUT FOUR YEARS AND DID NOT HAVE ANY WORK DONE TO IT AT THAT LOCATION.   
 
THE ACCIDENT HAPPENED AROUND 2:00 PM AND BY THE DESCRIPTION FROM OPERATOR IN STATE PARCEL NUMBER 14-17-02-400-012.000-007.  THIS LOCATION IS SOUTHWEST OF THE COVE THAT PROVIDES ACCESS TO THE CAMPGROUND.  OPERATOR ALSO EXPLAINED THAT HE LOST A CELL PHONE AND THREE FISHING POLES IN THE ACCIDENT.  BOTH MEN ADVISED THERE DID NOT APPEAR TO BE ANY FUEL LEAKAGE AND DID NOT SEE ANY TYPE OF SHEEN ON THE WATER.   


BARDID: IN-2023-0004
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2023-05-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:28:00
State: IN
NameOfBodyOfWater: St Joseph River
NearestCityTown: Osceola
County: St Joseph
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Unknown
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Restricted vision
AccidentCause3: Excessive speed
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Grounding
AccidentEvent3: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
DETAILS OF INVESTIGATION/INCIDENT:             
(MAY 10, 2023, AT 5:28 PM)          
I, INDIANA CONSERVATION OFFICER (ICO) 1, WAS ON PATROL IN MARSHALL COUNTY WITH ICO CORPORAL 2 AND RECEIVED INFORMATION FROM THE DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES DISPATCH ABOUT A BOAT ACCIDENT ON THE ST JOSEPH RIVER IN ST JOSEPH COUNTY.  I ARRIVED ON SCENE AT APPROXIMATELY 6:25 PM.         
           
THE OPERATOR WAS ALREADY TRANSPORTED TO ELKHART GENERAL HOSPITAL. I MET WITH THE PROPERTY OWNER. PROPERTY OWNER DID NOT WITNESS THE ACCIDENT OCCUR BUT SHOWED ME WHERE THE VESSEL WAS ON HIS PROPERTY. OPERATOR'S VESSEL, A 2022 MANITOU AURORA, HAD COLLIDED WITH PROPERTY OWNER'S SEA WALL AND CONTINUED ONWARD INTO AND WAS RESTING ON THE WOODEN DOCK AND EMPTY BOAT LIFT. THE VESSEL HAD STRUCTURAL DAMAGE TO THE PORT SIDE PONTOON AND MIDDLE PONTOON. THE PORT SIDE PONTOON HAD A LARGE HOLE WHERE IT STRUCK THE SEA WALL, AND DAMAGE TO THE BOAT'S RAILING AROUND THE MAIN SEATING AREA. OTHER PROPERTY DAMAGE OCCURRED TO THE WOODEN DOCK, SEA WALL, AND THE BOAT LIFT INCURRED HEAVY DAMAGE. PHOTOGRAPHS WERE TAKEN AT THE SCENE, AND I EXPLAINED TO PROPERTY OWNER HOW TO RECEIVE THE ACCIDENT REPORT FOR INSURANCE PURPOSES. CPL 2 AND I LEFT THE SCENE TO INTERVIEW OPERATOR AT THE HOSPITAL.         
           
CPL 2 AND I ARRIVED AT THE HOSPITAL AT APPROXIMATELY 7:08 PM WHERE WE MET WITH OPERATOR'S BOYFRIEND. HE ARRIVED ON SCENE SHORTLY AFTER THE CRASH AND WAS ABLE TO SPEAK TO OPERATOR BEFORE SHE WAS TAKEN TO THE HOSPITAL. BOYFRIEND EXPLAINED TO CPL 2 AND I THAT OPERATOR WAS TRAVELING WEST TO WYLAND'S MARINA TO PICK HIM UP. OPERATOR ENCOUNTERED NUMEROUS BASS BOATS COMING TOWARDS HER AT A HIGH RATE OF SPEED AND SHE SWERVED TO THE LEFT TO AVOID A HEAD ON COLLISION.         
           
CPL 2 AND I MET WITH OPERATOR'S DAUGHTER WHO WAS AT THE HOSPITAL. DAUGHTER WAS NOT PRESENT FOR THE ACCIDENT BUT WAS AT THE HOSPITAL AS OPERATOR'S POWER OF ATTORNEY. DAUGHTER EXPLAINED TO CPL 2 AND I THAT HER MOTHER HAD UNDERGONE A PROCEDURE ABOUT 3 YEARS AGO THAT COMPLICATED HER MENTAL CONDITION. DAUGHTER EXPLAINED THAT OPERATOR WAS ON MEDICATION FOR ANXIETY, DEPRESSION, AND ATTENTION-DEFICIT/HYPERACTIVITY DISORDER.        
           
CPL 2 ATTEMPTED TO INTERVIEW OPERATOR, BUT OPERATOR COULD NOT REMEMBER SPECIFICS TO THE ACCIDENT. OPERATOR WAS IN AN UNKNOWN ALTERED STATE OF MIND FROM THE ACCIDENT AND COULD ONLY REMEMBER THAT THERE WERE A LOT OF BOATS COMING TOWARDS HER FAST. OPERATOR WAS BEING TREATED FOR MULTIPLE CONTUSIONS AND A LACERATION TO HER LEFT FOREARM. CPL 2 WAS ABLE TO ADMINISTER A PORTABLE BREATH TEST (PBT) TO OPERATOR. OPERATOR'S TEST REVEALED THAT HER BREATH ALCOHOL CONTENT (BAC) WAS .018 (BAC), WHERE THE LEGAL LIMIT TO OPERATE A BOAT IS .08 (BAC).        
           
DUE TO OPERATOR'S ALTERED STATE OF MIND, CPL 2 AND I EXPLAINED TO DAUGHTER HOW TO RECEIVE THE ACCIDENT REPORT AND THAT OPERATOR'S VESSEL WILL STILL NEED TO BE REMOVED FROM THE PROPERTY.      
   
(MAY 12, 2023 AT 10:30 AM)  
I MET WITH OPERATOR AT HER RESIDENCE. OPERATOR STATED THAT SHE WAS TRAVELING WESTBOUND ON THE ST JOSEPH RIVER TO MEET BOYFRIEND AT WYLAND'S MARINA WHEN SHE SAW A LOT OF FISHING STYLE BOATS COMING TOWARDS HER.  SHE SAID SHE SAW NUMEROUS BOATS WITH THEIR BOWS RAISED AND FEARED THAT THEY WOULD NOT BE ABLE TO SHE HER.  WHEN THEY GOT CLOSER, SHE SWERVED TO THE LEFT (SOUTH) AND THE LAST THING SHE REMEMBERED WAS THE MEDICS CHECKING HER BEFORE SHE LEFT FOR THE HOSPITAL. OPERATOR STATED THAT SHE WAS TREATED FOR A LACERATION TO LEFT FOREARM, BRUISES ON BOTH LEGS, BACK, AND HEAD.


BARDID: IN-2023-0006
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2023-04-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 07:00:00
State: IN
NameOfBodyOfWater: Monroe Reservoir
NearestCityTown: Bloomington
County: Monroe
WaterConditions: Unknown
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Unknown
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Sinking
RedactedNarrative:
Prelude:  
        I was informed of a sunken jet ski in Allen's Creek on Monroe Reservoir. After searching the approximate location given, I have not been able to locate the jet ski. Personal information was gathered, and a report taken.  
Involved Persons:  
        Operator. 
        Owner 1, Witness. 
        Owner 2, interviewed. 
Details of Investigation/Incident: 
        On April 19th, 2023, I was notified of a jet ski that had sank on April 15th, 2023, in the Allen's Creek area of Monroe Reservoir. (It should be noted that emergency response was not required, and District 6 was working a double drowning on Monroe Reservoir over the course of several days) The jet ski was described as a 2014 blue and green, EME Micro Freeride, stand up jet ski. The caller, Witness, notified ICO Central Dispatch of the incident when it occurred and was advised to mark the location using GPS coordinates. After speaking to Witness's father, Owner 2, I learned that he had been in contact with MCM towing shortly after the incident. MCM had failed to locate or recover the jet ski. I was informed that a friend of Owner's, Operator, had been operating the jet ski at the time of the incident. 
        Upon interviewing Operator and Witness individually, both described the same area where the jet ski went down. Operator stated the jet ski stopped starting at one point when he was approximately 60 yards from the boat. Operator stated he started “swimming it back” when it began to take on water. He explained that he was trying to tie it off to the boat when it sank. He stated that he was approximately 25 to 35 yards from shore between two signs, one of which read “No-Camping”.  
        At the time of the incident, the jet ski had not been registered with the BMV or insured. The Owner's as well as MCM towing and Marine Operations Specialist, have utilized SONAR in an attempt to locate the jet ski. I have also utilized SONAR with a District 6 patrol boat but have been unsuccessful in locating the jet ski.   
        No further action taken. 
Attachments: 
        Photos of jet ski and title. 
Current Disposition: 
        This report submitted to ICO District 6 Command for approval on  May 15th, 2023.


BARDID: IN-2023-0007
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2023-04-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:58:00
State: IN
NameOfBodyOfWater: Patoka Reservoir
NearestCityTown: Celestine
County: Dubois
WaterConditions: Very rough
HazardousWaters: Y
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent3: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
ON SATURDAY APRIL 22, 2023, AT 6:58PM EST, I WAS CONTACTED BY WITNESS 2 WHO OWNS A HOUSEBOAT AT PATOKA RESERVOIR'S HOOSIER HILLS MARINA LOCATED IN CELESTINE, INDIANA.  SHE WAS CURRENTLY WITNESSING A HOUSEBOAT SINK OFF THE END OF DOCK.

SHE SENT ME A PICTURE OF THE VESSEL'S STERN ALMOST UNDERWATER
.
BY 7:05PM, I RECEIVED A SECOND PHOTOGRAPH OF THE HOUSEBOAT COMPLETELY SUNK WITH ONLY THE PORT BOW STICKING UP OUT OF THE WATER AT A FORTY-FIVE-DEGREE LISTING TO THE STARBOARD SIDE APPROXIMATELY TWENTY YARDS OFF THE FAR SHORE ACROSS FROM THE MARINA.

THE SINKING VESSEL'S OPERATOR WAS RESCUED BY THREE OTHER HOUSEBOAT CUSTOMERS AT THE MARINA: WITNESS 3, WITNESS 1, AND WITNESS 5.  WITNESS 5 TRANSPORTED OPERATOR SAFELY TO THE SHORE.

I WAS OFF-DUTY AND IMMEDIATELY RESPONDED FROM MY RESIDENCE TO THE SCENE ARRIVING AROUND 7:30 PM EST.

WHILE IN ROUTE I NOTIFIED HOOSIER HILLS MARINA OWNER WHO LIVES AT THE MARINA TO ASSESS THE SITUATION.  MARINA OWNER CONFIRMED THE VESSEL WAS SUNKEN AND ALL THE OCCUPANTS WERE SAFE AND ACCOUNTED FOR.  HE ALSO LOOKED AT THE SCENE AND DID NOT NOTE ANY ENVIRONMENTAL SPILLS OR LEAKAGE.

I MEET PATOKA RESERVOIR MANAGER, ASSISTANT MANAGERS 1 AND 2 ON SCENE.
WE CONFIRMED OURSELVES THAT THE HOUSEBOAT WAS NOT LEAKING ANY FLUIDS AND THAT ALL OCCUPANTS WERE SAFE AND ACCOUNTED FOR.

I LOCATED THE SUNKEN VESSEL'S OWNER/ OPERATOR, ON WITNESSES 2 & 4'S HOUSEBOAT.  OPERATOR AND HIS GIRLFRIEND WERE OFFERED MEDICAL ASSISTANCE WHICH THEY DENIED.  GIRLFRIEND'S FEET WERE A LITTLE COLD.  THE WITNESSES 2 & 4'S OFFERED HER A BLANKET FOR HER LOWER EXTREMITIES. 

WE INTERVIEWED OPERATOR AND GIRLFRIEND ON WITNESSES 2 & 4'S HOUSEBOAT.

OPERATOR STATED HE PURCHASED THE 1968 34FOOT BY 12FOOT NAUTALINE HOUSEBOAT IN KENTUCKY LAST MONTH.  OPERATOR'S GIRLFRIEND CONFIRMED THEY LAUNCHED THE HOUSEBOAT AROUND APRIL18/19, DRIVING THE HOUSEBOAT TO THEIR RENTAL SLIP AT THE MARINA. (AN 80FT SLIP WITH FINGER PIERS ON BOTH SIDES)

GIRLFRIEND EXPLAINED THE HOUSEBOAT RECENTLY HAD A MARINE SURVEY DONE ON IT JUST PRIOR TO THE PURCHASE AND THE BOAT WAS IN GREAT SHAPE.  OPERATOR NOTED THE HOUSEBOAT'S HULL WAS FIBERGLASS IN CONSTRUCTION WITH AN OUTBOARD ENGINE.  THE FUEL TANK WAS INBOARD AROUND 25 GALLONS.

OPERATOR EXPLAINED THEY TOOK THE HOUSEBOAT OUT AROUND 3PM, DRIVING ACROSS PATOKA LAKE TO THE PATOKA LAKE MARINE, WHERE THEY PICKED UP GIRLFRIEND'S DAUGHTER, OTHER PERSON, AND GIRLFRIEND'S DAUGHTER'S TWO JUVENILE SONS.
THEY WERE COMING BACK ACROSS THE LAKE TO THE HOOSIER HILLS MARINA APPROACHING THE PATOKA REGIONAL WATER/SEWER'S WATER INTAKE TOWER WHEN THE OUTBOARD ENGINE DIED.

THE WEATHER CONDITIONS WERE REPORTED AS PARTLY CLOUD WITH A HIGH OF 58 DEGREES WITH WINDY GUESTS AROUND 15 TO 30 MPH.  THE WATER TEMPERATURE WAS AROUND 60/65 DEGREES.  THE OCCUPANTS DESCRIBED THE WAVES AS "WHITE CAPING".

WHEN THE ENGINE DIED, THE HOUSEBOAT WAS ALMOST IMMEDIATELY BLOWN/PUSHED UP AGAINST THE SHORE.  OPERATOR WAS ABLE TO RESTART THE ENGINE AND WHILE ATTEMPTING TO GET THE HOUSEBOAT OFF THE SHORELINE, STRUCK SOMETHING WITH THE OUTBOARD ENGINE, CAUSING THE OCCUPANTS TO JOLT FORWARD.

GIRLFRIEND THOUGHT DAUGHTER HAD FALLEN-IN DUE TO THE JOLT; HOWEVER, SHE DID NOT.

THEY WERE ABLE TO REMOVE THE HOUSEBOAT FROM THE SHORE AND CONTINUE TO THE MARINA.

ALL THE ADULT OCCUPANTS STATED SEPARATELY IN INTERVIEWS THAT THE VESSEL HIT SOMETHING IN THE WATER DURING THEIR TRAVEL.

WHEN THEY GOT THE HOUSEBOAT IN THEIR SLIP, TIED UP, AND ENGINE SHUT OFF, THEY COULD HEAR THE SOUND OF WATER RUSHING IN THE BOAT.  AT THIS POINT OPERATOR OPENED THE REAR ENGINE HATCH AND WATER WAS POURING IN AND THE BILGE WAS UNABLE TO KEEP UP.

WHEN I ASKED OPERATOR WHAT HE THOUGHT HAPPENED, HE STATED SAW THE MOTOR WAS BARELY HANGING ON TO THE TRANSOM.

EVERYONE EXITED THE HOUSEBOAT AT THIS POINT ONTO THE DOCK.  OPERATOR THEN UNTIED THE BOAT AND ATTEMPTED TO MOTOR THE HOUSEBOAT OVER TO THE LICK FORK RECREATION AREA'S BOAT RAMP LOCATED ON THE NORTH SIDE OF THE MARINA.

AS OPERATOR ROUNDED DOCK THE BOAT SANK AND OPERATOR WAS RESCUED.

OPERATOR WAS UNABLE TO ACCESS A LIFE JACKET DUE TO THEM BEING STORED INSIDE THE LIVING COMPARTMENT OF THE HOUSEBOAT.

T AND T MARINA SALVAGE OUT OF ROUGH RIVER, KENTUCKY WAS CONTACTED TO EXPEDITIOUSLY REMOVE THE BOAT FROM THE WATER.

T AND T MARINA SALVAGE ARRIVED AROUND 1PM ON SUNDAY APRIL 23, 2023 AND WERE ABLE TO USE AIRBAGS TO RAISE THE HOUSEBOAT FROM THE LAKEBED.  USING TWO DE-WATERING PUMPS TO KEEP THE HOUSEBOAT AFLOAT, IT WAS TOWED TO THE LICK FORK RAMP AND REMOVED FROM THE LAKE ON OPERATOR'S HOUSEBOAT TRAILER.

AT THIS TIME, I COMPLETED A PHYSICAL INSPECTION OF THE 1968 NAUTALINE 34FOOT HOUSEBOAT AND PHOTOGRAPHED THE CONDITION OF IT.  

THE VESSEL HAD A CURRENT 2024 INDIANA WATERCRAFT REGISTRATION STICKERS DISPLAYED ON THE FORWARD HALF OF THE VESSEL BUT WAS STILL DISPLAYING KENTUCKY WATERCRAFT REGISTRATION NUMBERS.

I WAS UNABLE TO LOCATE A HIN NUMBER ON THE VESSEL.  GIRLFRIEND WAS ABLE TO PRODUCE AN INDIANA TITLE WITH THE VIN WHICH IS A KENTUCKY ASSIGNED HIN NUMBER MOST LIKELY DUE TO THE BOAT'S HULL BEING PAINTED SEVERAL TIMES OVER THE YEARS.  THE BOAT CURRENTLY HAD A FRESH COAT OF TEAL ON THE TRANSOM.

THE HOUSEBOAT SHOWED OBVIOUS SIGNS OF DEFORMITY TO THE TRANSOM AREA.  A 120 HORSEPOWER V6 EVINRUDE OUTBOARD ENGINE WAS MOUNTED ON A 12" SPACING T H MARINE Z-LOCK @ MANUAL JACK PLATE.

THE TOP OF THE TRANSOM WHERE THE OUTBOARD WAS BOLTED THROUGH WAS COMPLETELY BROKE THROUGH AND CAVED INWARD ON BOTH SIDES OF THE ENGINE.  THE TRANSOM WAS STILL HOLDING BELOW THE MOTOR MOUNTS.

THE FIBERGLASS HULL WAS INSPECTED AND FOUND TO BE COMPLETELY INTACT. 
 
THE REAR BILGE AREA WAS INTACT WITH A REAR BILGE PUMP AND THREE MARINA BATTERIES ON A THREE-BANK CHARGING SYSTEM. 
OPERATOR TOOK POSSESSION OF THE HOUSEBOAT AND TOWED IT BACK TO HIS RESIDENCE.

WHEN I INTERVIEWED THE WITNESSES ON THE DOCK AT THE MARINA, ACCORDING TO THE WITNESS FAMILY, OPERATOR CAME INTO THE MARINA ON THE EASTERN SHORE HUGGING THE BANK WHICH IS LITTERED WITH SUBMERGED TREETOPS JUST UNDER THE WATERLINE.

WHEN WITNESS 1 ATTEMPTED TO ASSIST, OPERATOR IN DOCKING HIS VESSEL IN HIS SLIP, OPERATOR OVERSHOT THE SLIP AND ENDED UP IN THE BANK, HAVING TO REVERSE HARD BEFORE GETTING IN THE SLIP.  THE BANK AREA IS ALSO LITTERED WITH TREE STUMPS AND UNDERWATER HAZARDS JUST UNDER THE WATER.

THE CAUSE OF THE ACCIDENTLY SINKING WAS DUE TO THE TRANSOM BEING PARTIAL RIP OFF WHERE THE OUTBOARD ENGINE BOLTS, LETTING IN LARGE AMOUNTS OF WATER, SINKING THE VESSEL.  DURING THEIR VOYAGE, THE VESSEL'S OUTBOARD MOTOR STUCK SOMETHING IN THE LAKE WHICH ENOUGH FORCE OR ENGINE TORQUE TO CAUSE THE TRANSOM TO BREAK.


BARDID: IN-2023-0008
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2023-04-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
State: IN
NameOfBodyOfWater: Ohio River
NearestCityTown: New Albany
County: Floyd
WaterConditions: Unknown
StrongCurrent: Y
HazardousWaters: Y
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Prelude:
 
A male and a female were rescued out of the ohio river after their boat sunk. 


On april 29, 2023, at approximately 3:00 pm i indiana conservation officer 1 was on patrol in floyd county when i heard radio traffic of a water rescue on the ohio river from clark county dispatch. I notified ico dispatch, and i advised clark county dispatch that i would be enroute. I activated my emergency lights and sirens in my fully marked conservation officer patrol vehicle and patrolled to the clarksville boat ramp. 

 at approximately 3:14 pm i arrived on scene and saw several clarksville fire department vehicles and personnel. I grabbed my issued throw bag and made contact with a clarksville police officer. I asked if any one was in the water, how many, and where they were. The officer said he did not know anything. I made contact with a clarksville fireman and asked the same set of questions. He advised that they had launched their inflatable boat and was searching for the victims but could not find anything. He told me that i should go to the new albany boat ramp. That is the last location he said the subjects where headed. I left the clarksville boat ramp and patrolled to the new albany boat ramp. 

I made contact with ico sergeant 2, ico corporal 3, and ico 4. I advised them to head towards the new albany boat ramp.

I arrived at the new albany boat ramp at approximately 3:32 pm. I pulled down the ramp and exited my patrol vehicle. I saw the clarksville fire department rescue boat at the ramp. I asked if they knew where the subjects were and what was going on. They said they did not know and could not locate anything or anybody. When i said that i heard someone behind me standing on the ramp state "we are right here". I turned around and saw operator standing on the ramp. He was soaking wet. I asked him if he was okay. He said he was okay, and i asked how many people there was. He said it was just him and his wife (passenger). I asked if he she was okay, and he said she was in the car getting warm. I told operator to get in the car and warm up. I walked down the ramp where i saw a boat pulling up with two males in the boat (later identified as witnesses 1 and 2). I asked them if they saw what happened. He said they were the ones who rescued both of them and had some of their belongings. I asked witness 1 what happened. He said that he saw them drive towards the old dam above the mouth of silver creek. They nudged the rocks two times and the third time he saw operator turn back down river and seen the bottom of the boat be pulled down. He said he immediately reeled in his fishing tackle and drove towards them and pulled them out of the water. He also said that both of their personal floatation devices were fully inflated when they rescued them. Witness 1 also said that in the captains meeting of the catfish tournament everyone was instructed not to go past the mouth silver creek on the main body of the river. 
  
I walked back up to the vehicle where operator and passenger were at and asked them what happened. He said that he was apart of the catfish tournament and that he tried to go through twice and the third time he turned back down river, and the stern of the boat was pulled under and began to take on water. He said they put on their life jackets and the boat began to capsize. He said they tried to stay on the boat until help arrived.

Ico sergeant 2, ico corporal 3, ico 4 arrived on scene. I asked operator for information on the boat and he said that he was in the process of buying the boat out of tennessee and most of the documents where in the river. He was able to provide me with registration number. The boat was a 2016 sea ark 2072. 

 ico sergeant 2, ico corporal 3, ico 4 and i began to try and find towing and recovery services for the boat, ico 4 advised that he had made contact with mcbride barge, and they would be able to help recover the boat by crane on monday.

I gave my contact information to operator along with mcbride barge. We left the scene. 

On may 1, 2023, i was contacted by mcbride barge, and he said they would be recovering the boat after operator made contact with insurance company. Mcbride barge said that the boat was recovered thirteen and a half miles downstream from where it initially sank, and that boat was tied off to a barge by mill creek at the lg&e powerplant.  

On may 2, 2023, operator contacted me via text message and phone call. He provided me with the insurance for the boat through tennessee farmers mutual insurance company. He also sent me pictures of the boat once it was refloated, and it was pulled out of the water by crane and set on his boat trailer at mcbride barges private boat ramp in new albany and the boat was back in operators possession. 


BARDID: IN-2023-0009
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-05-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:00:00
State: IN
NameOfBodyOfWater: Brookville Lake
NearestCityTown: Liberty
County: Union
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Sinking
RedactedNarrative:
    ON 05-06-2023 AT APPROXIMATELY 1400 HOURS, I, INDIANA CONSERVATION OFFICER 1 AND ICO 2 RESPONDED TO A BOAT SINKING ON BROOKVILLE LAKE OFF FAIRFIELD BOAT RAMP IN UNION COUNTY, IN. ONCE THERE WE MET WITH UNION COUNTY SHERIFF DEPUTY WHO WAS WITH THE OWNERS OF THE BOAT, PASSENGER 1 AND OPERATOR, AND THE FAMILY THEY HAD WITH THEM. ICO 2 AND I BEGAN TO TALK WITH THE OWNERS AS WELL, ASKING THEM WHAT HAD HAPPENED. THEY EXPLAINED TO US THAT THEY WERE GOING ACROSS THE LAKE (EAST) BACK TOWARDS THE BOAT RAMP AND THEIR BOAT BEGAN TO TAKE ON WATER. PASSENGER 1 AND OPERATOR BOTH STATED THAT THE BACK RIGHT SIDE OF THE BOAT STARTED TO GO UNDER WATER.    
     
        WE THEN BEGAN TO SPEAK WITH PASSENGER 2, THE FATHER OF OPERATOR, WHO WAS ALSO ON THE BOAT WHEN IT WENT DOWN. HE STATED THAT THE BACK RIGHT SIDE OF THE BOAT BEGAN TO TAKE ON WATER INTO THE HULL. WHEN THEY REALIZED WHAT WAS GOING ON, THEY BEGAN TO SIGNAL FOR HELP FROM OTHER BOATERS. PASSENGER 2 DID SAY HE WAS NOT SURE HOW OR WHY THE BOAT WAS TAKING ON WATER, BUT IT TOOK IT ON FAST. THEY WERE ABLE TO GET HELP FROM WITNESS, WHO GAVE THEM A RIDE BACK TO THE FAIRFIELD RAMP.    
     
        AFTER SPEAKING WITH THE FATHER, WE WENT BACK TO TALK WITH PASSENGER 1 AND OPERATOR ABOUT INFORMATION ON WHERE THE BOAT WENT DOWN. THEY TOLD US THE MAN WHO RESCUED THEM, WITNESS, GAVE THEM COORDINATES OF WHERE THE BOAT WENT DOWN. WE ASKED THEM IF THEY HAD EVER TAKEN A BOATER EDUCATION COURSE AND THEY STATED YES. PASSENGER 1 HAD TAKEN THE COURSE AND OPERATOR HAD WATCHED AS SHE DID EVERYTHING, BUT BOTH WENT THROUGH THE ONLINE COURSE.    
     
        ICO 2 AND I GATHERED INFORMATION FROM THEM IN REGARDS TO THEIR INSURANCE, REGISTRATION AND TITLE. WE THEN LEFT AND WENT TO PICK UP A BOAT FROM MOUNDS SRA OOFFICE TO TRY AND FIND THE BOAT UTILIZING SONAR. ONCE BACK AT THE FAIRFIELD RAMP, WE LAUNCHED AND TOOK ONE OF THE WORKERS FROM DAVIS TOWING WITH US TO LOOK. WE WERE UNABLE TO FIND THE BOAT ON THIS DAY.    
     
        THE BOAT WAS LOCATED BY SIDE SCAN SONAR ON 05-24-2023 BY OFFICERS 3, ICO 2 AND LT. 4. ON 05-25-2023, THE BOAT WAS RECOVERED BY DAVIS TOWING. ONCE THE BOAT WAS ON TRAILER ICO 2 TOOK PICTURES OF THE WATERCRAFT. IT WAS DETERMINED THAT THE BOAT SANK DO TO NOT HAVING ANY OF THE THREE (3) DRAIN PLUGS INSTALLED (SEE PHOTOGRAPHS).  


BARDID: IN-2023-0011
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-06-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:00:00
State: IN
NameOfBodyOfWater: Patoka Reservoir
NearestCityTown: Birdseye
County: Orange
WaterConditions: Rough
HazardousWaters: Y
Wind: Light
Visibility: Unknown
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
RedactedNarrative:
I, INDIANA CONSERVATION OFFICER (ICO) 1, WAS PATROLLING ON PATOKA LAKE ON JUNE 16TH, 2023, AT APPROXIMATELY 7:03 PM WHEN I RECEIVED A CALL FROM ICO CENTRAL DISPATCH IN REFERENCE TO A BOAT ACCIDENT THAT HAD OCCURRED NEAR THE BEACH. 
ICO 2 AND I LOCATED THE VESSEL, INDIANA REGISTRATION, AT APPROXIMATELY 7:09 PM. WE CONTACTED THE OPERATOR. OPERATOR ADVISED THAT NO ONE WAS INJURED, AND NO ONE HAD BEEN EJECTED INTO THE WATER. OPERATOR STATED THAT THEY WERE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 30 MILES PER HOUR BEFORE THE ACCIDENT OCCURRED. HE ALSO STATED THEY WERE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 75-100 FEET FROM THE NORTHWEST SHORE COMING OUT OF THE PAINTER CREEK AREA WHEN THEY STRUCK AN OBJECT UNDER THE WATER. HE STATED VESSEL CONTINUED TO RUN FOR A SHORT TIME THEN EVENTUALLY STOPPED ALL TOGETHER. OPERATOR ALSO STATED THAT THE BOAT HAD STARTED TAKING ON WATER NEAR LOWER UNIT OF THE BOAT, BUT THE BILGE PUMP WAS ABLE TO KEEP UP. 
WHEN ICO 2 AND I ARRIVED ON SCENE EVERYONE WAS WEARING PFD'S. 
ICO 2 AND I THEN TOWED THE VESSEL TO SOUTH RAMP WHERE IT WAS LOADED ON A TRAILER AND REMOVED FROM THE WATER. I THEN PHOTOGRAPHED THE DAMAGE.


BARDID: IN-2023-0012
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-06-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
State: IN
NameOfBodyOfWater: Brookville Reservoir
NearestCityTown: Brookville
County: Franklin
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
RedactedNarrative:
 ON FRIDAY JUNE 16, 2023, UNION COUNTY DISPATCH RECEIVED A 9-1-1 CALL REGARDING A MALE THAT WAS INJURED ON BROOKVILLE RESERVOIR WHILE WATER SKIING. THE CALLER REPORTED THEY WERE AT THE KENT'S HARBOR MARINA AND GAS DOCK AND WERE WAITING FOR EMS ARRIVAL.     
        A UNION COUNTY DEPUTY AND EMS ARRIVED ON SCENE PRIOR TO MY ARRIVAL AND SPOKE WITH THE INJURED PARTY AND THE OPERATOR OF THE WATERCRAFT. THE INJURED PARTY WAS TRANSPORTED TO REID HOSPITAL IN RICHMOND FOR FURTHER MEDICAL TREATMENT.     
        ONCE I ARRIVED, I SPOKE WITH THE OPERATOR WHO TOLD ME THAT THEY HAD BEEN SKIING ON THE WATER JUST SOUTH OF THE KENT'S HARBOR AREA (ON THE EAST SIDE OF THE BROOKVILLE RESERVOIR) WHEN THE SKIER FELL OFF ONTO HIS RIGHT RIBS. THE SKIER RETURNED TO SKIING AND FELL OFF AGAIN, HITTING THEIR RIGHT RIBS. OPERATOR TOLD ME THAT THEY CONTINUED ABOUT THEIR DAY FOR A SHORT WHILE LATER DUE TO NO COMPLAINT OF PAIN OR INJURY AT THE TIME. OPERATOR SAID THAT AFTER AN HOUR OR SO, THE SKIER STARTED TO COMPLAIN OF RIB PAIN AND MADE CONTACT WITH UNION COUNTY FOR MEDICAL ASSISTANCE.     
        THE INJURED SKIER WAS INJURED. AFTER BEING CHECKED OUT BY EMS, INJURED HAD SUSTAINED INJURIES TO HIS RIGHT RIBS. THEY ADVISED HIS RIBS HAD BECOME SEPARATED AND WAS TRANSPORTED TO THE HOSPITAL FOR TREATMENT. EMS DID NOT BELIEVE HIS RIBS WERE CRACKED OR BROKEN AT THE TIME.     
        OPERATOR TOLD ME THAT THEY HAD BEEN ON THE WATER SINCE 17:00 HOURS AND THE INCIDENT HAPPENED AROUND 17:30 HOURS.  
        OPERATOR SAID HE HAD TAKEN BOATER EDUCATION APPROXIMATELY 9 YEARS PRIOR ONLINE BUT WAS UNCERTAIN WHAT HIS EDUCATION NUMBER WAS. HE SAID HE HAD APPROXIMATELY 100 PLUS HOURS OF BOAT OPERATION IN HIS LIFETIME.     
        THE WATER TEMPERATURE AT THE TIME WAS 74 DEGREES, WITH THE OUTSIDE AIR TEMPERATURE BEING 72 DEGREES.     
        I ASKED OPERATOR IF HE HAD CONSUMED ANY ALCOHOL THROUGHOUT THE DAY. HE ADVISED THAT HE HAD NOT. NO SIGNS OF ALCOHOL CONSUMPTION OR IMPAIRMENT WAS OBSERVED ON OPERATOR.  
        I DOCUMENTED THE WATERCRAFT AS A WHITE AND TAN TIGE 24-FOOT RUNABOUT WITH INDIANA REGISTRATION.     
        I OBTAINED THE TWO OTHER PASSENGER'S INFORMATION AS: PASSENGERS 1 AND 2.     
        I INFORMED OPERATOR A REPORT WOULD BE GENERATED DUE TO THE INCIDENT INVOLVING A WATERCRAFT AND PROVIDED HIS WITH MY CONTACT INFORMATION IF ANYTHING ADDITIONAL WAS NEEDED.  


BARDID: IN-2023-0013
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-06-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:15:00
State: IN
NameOfBodyOfWater: Morse Reservoir
NearestCityTown: Noblesville
County: Hamilton
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
ON SUNDAY JUNE 18TH, 2023, AT APPROXIMATELY 4:00 PM, I, INDIANA CONSERVATION OFFICER 1 WAS ON PATROL NEAR MORSE RESERVOIR IN HAMILTON COUNTY.  I WAS THEN APPROACHED BY AN INDIVIDUAL AT MORSE RESERVOIR MARINA, LATER IDENTIFIED AS V2 OWNER.  V2 OWNER ADVISED THAT HIS BOAT, A BLUE 2022 TAHOE RUNABOUT, HAD BEEN DAMAGED THE NIGHT PRIOR WHILE DOCKED AT HIS SLIP.  V2 OWNER ADVISED THERE WAS DAMAGE SUSTAINED TO THE LOWER UNIT OF HIS VESSEL.  UPON REVIEWING PHOTOGRAPHS OF THE DAMAGE SUSTAINED AND SPEAKING WITH THE MARINA STAFF, IT WAS MADE AWARE THAT V1 OPERATOR HAD STRUCK V2 OWNERS BOAT THE EVENING PRIOR ON JUNE 17TH.  V2 OWNER ADVISED THAT V1 OPERATOR LEFT HIS CONTACT AND INSURANCE INFORMATION WITH THE MORSE RESERVOIR MARINA STAFF THE FOLLOWING MORNING ON JUNE 18TH. 
DUE TO THE DAMAGE BEING ISOLATED TO THE LOWER UNIT OF HIS VESSEL, V2 OWNER ADVISED HE WAS GOING TO PROCURE A DAMAGE ESTIMATE PRIOR TO FILING A REPORT REGARDING THE INCIDENT.  ON MONDAY, JUNE 19TH, V2 OWNER PRODUCED A DAMAGE ESTIMATE FROM LAKEVIEW MARINA, WITH A TOTAL ESTIMATED DAMAGE VALUE OF $2972, ALONG WITH V1 OPERATOR'S CONTACT INFORMATION. 
ON TUESDAY, JUNE 20TH, I ASSESSED THE DAMAGE OF BOTH VESSELS AT MORSE RESERVOIR MARINA.  THERE WAS APPARENT DAMAGE TO THE LOWER UNIT OF V2 OWNER'S VESSEL PARKED ON HIS SLIP.  UPON VIEWING V1 OPERATOR'S VESSEL AT HIS SLIP, THERE WAS NO APPARENT DAMAGE.  THE DAMAGE TO V2 OWNER'S VESSEL WAS PHOTOGRAPHED, AND HE WAS PROVIDED WITH AN INDIANA BOAT ACCIDENT OPERATORS FORM. 
ON WEDNESDAY, JUNE 21ST, I SPOKE WITH V1 OPERATOR VIA TELEPHONE REGARDING THE INCIDENT.  V1 OPERATOR ADVISED HE WAS ATTEMPTING TO DOCK HIS VESSEL, A WHITE AND RED GODFREY MARINE RUNABOUT BOAT ON SATURDAY, JUNE 17TH, WHEN HE STRUCK V2 OWNER'S VESSEL.  V1 OPERATOR ADVISED THE ACCIDENT OCCURRED AROUND 8:15 PM TO THE BEST OF HIS KNOWLEDGE.  V1 OPERATOR ADVISED THAT HE AND HIS WIFE, WERE ON BOARD HIS VESSEL AT THE TIME OF THE INCIDENT.  V1 OPERATOR ADVISED HE REALIZED HE HAD MISSED HIS SLIP AT THE MARINA AND WAS TURNING AROUND WHEN HE STRUCK V2 OWNER'S DOCKED VESSEL ON SLIP, DAMAGING THE LOWER UNIT OF THE VESSEL.
V1 OPERATOR ADVISED THERE WAS NO DAMAGE SUSTAINED TO HIS VESSEL DURING THE INCIDENT.  V1 OPERATOR ADVISED HE LEFT HIS CONTACT AND INSURANCE INFORMATION WITH MORSE MARINA STAFF FOR V2 OWNER ON JUNE 18TH, 2023.  V1 OPERATOR WAS THEN PROVIDED AN INDIANA BOAT ACCIDENT OPERATORS FORM VIA EMAIL.  
THE DAMAGE TO V2 OWNER'S VESSEL WAS CONSISTENT TO THE STATEMENTS GIVEN BY V1 OPERATOR AND V2 OWNER.


BARDID: IN-2023-0014
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2023-06-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:00:00
State: IN
NameOfBodyOfWater: Geist Reservoir
NearestCityTown: Indianapolis
County: Hamilton
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Failure to vent
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
RedactedNarrative:
THE VESSEL INVOLVED IN THIS INCIDENT WAS A 1990 17' BAYLINER CAPRI. THE OWNER WAS THE SOLE MALE OCCUPANT AND OPERATOR. THE OTHER THREE OCCUPANTS WERE FEMALES. OPERATOR HAD RECENLTY PURCHASED THE VESSEL AND AS A MARINE MECHANIC WAS DOING SOME WORK TO THE ENGINE. OPERATOR FUELED THE VESSEL TO IT'S FULL CAPACITY BEFORE HEADING OUT FROM THE MARINA. THE VESSEL MADE IT APPROXIMATLEY 50 YARDS FROM THE DOCKS WHEN GAS FUMES IN THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT IGNITED AND BLEW THE COVER OFF THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT AND SET THE VESSEL ON FIRE. THE 4 OCCUPANTS ENTERED THE WATER WITHOUT LIFE JACKETS AS THEY WERE STORED IN THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT. THEY WERE QUICKLY PICKED UP BY ANOTHER BOATER NEARBY. OPERATOR AND TWO FEMALE OCCUPANTS SUFFERED MINOR BURNS TO THEIR LEGS AND WERE RELEASED BY MEDICS AT THE SCENE. WHILE I ASSISTED MARINA STAFF IN RETRIEVING AND LOADING THE BURNT VESSEL ON IT'S TRAILER, THE FUEL THAT WAS LEFT IN THE THE VESSEL AND ON THE WATER REIGNITED WHEN THE BATTERY CABLE MADE CONTACT WITH THE ENGINE BLOCK AFTER IT CLEARED THE WATER LINE. ADDITIONAL DAMAGE WAS CAUSED TO THE DOCKS AND THE MARINA'S WIRING SYSTEM. NO ALCOHOL OR DRUGS ARE BELIEVED TO BE A FACTOR.


BARDID: IN-2023-0015
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2023-06-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:15:00
State: IN
NameOfBodyOfWater: Ohio River
NearestCityTown: Utica
County: Clark
WaterConditions: Calm
HazardousWaters: Y
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
RedactedNarrative:
DRIVER OF JET SKI STATED THEY WERE DRIVING ALONG 6 MILE ISLAND. THEY DRIVER AND PASSENGER HAD DIVERTED ATTENTION AND DROVE TOWARDS THE TIP OF THE ISLAND. THE UPRIVER TIP OF THE ISLAND HAS SHALLOW WATER STRETCHED OUT ABOUT 100 FEET. THE OPERATOR DROVE INTO THIS SHALLOW WATER AND BOTH DRIVER AND PASSENGER WERE THROWN FROM WATERCRAFT. BOTH SUBJECTS WERE TAKEN TO NORTON HOSPITAL VIA EMS.
DRIVER SUSTAINED INJURIES TO HER HEAD AND FACE. SHE HAD A CONCUSSION AND HAD TO HAVE 12 STITCHES FOR GASHES IN HER FACE. THE PASSENGER SUSTAINED A BROKEN NOSE, DISLOACTED LEFT WRIST, CONCUSSION, AND A GASH TO HER FACE (2 STITCHES). THE JET SKI WAS TOTALED DUE TO MULTIPLE CRACKS IN THE UPPER AND LOWER HULL. THE LEFT MIRROR WAS ALSO BROKEN, WITH INJURIES ON THE DRIVERS FACE RESEMBLING THE BROKEN MIRROR. PFDS WERE USED. NO ALCOHOL.


BARDID: IN-2023-0017
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:22:00
State: IN
NameOfBodyOfWater: Hamilton Lake
NearestCityTown: Hamilton
County: Hamilton
WaterConditions: Unknown
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Unknown
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Improper loading
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
RedactedNarrative:
Prelude:   
Boat accident resulting in personal injury.  
   
Details of Investigation/Incident:      
   On July 17, 2023, at approximately 2:20 pm, I Indiana Conservation Officer (ICO) was contacted by ICO central dispatch in regard to a possible drowning on Hamilton Lake in Steuben County.   

   I arrived where I contacted the homeowners. Subject1 explained to me that they witnessed a gentleman kayaking in front of their property approximately 80 feet from the shore when the wind blew victim’s hat off his head. Operator then attempted to retrieve his hat when he fell off his Hobie kayak. Unable to reboard the watercraft, Operator began to struggle, eventually becoming unconscious. Operator was not wearing a personal floatation device at the time of the incident. Subjects along with the help of Good Samaritans from a passing boat pulled Operator from the water and subject began CPR. Operator began breathing again and EMS personnel transported Operator to Parkview Regional Medical Center by helicopter.


BARDID: IN-2023-0019
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2023-05-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 23:00:00
State: IN
NameOfBodyOfWater: Cedar Lake
NearestCityTown: Cedar Lake
County: Lake
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Unknown
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentEvent2: Collision with floating object
AccidentEvent3: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
         ON SATURDAY, MAY 27, 2023 AT 2:00 P.M. I, INDIANA CONSERVATION OFFICER 1, WAS NOTIFIED OF A MOTORBOAT ACCIDENT THAT OCCURRED FRIDAY NIGHT ON CEDAR LAKE IN LAKE COUNTY.      
       
         AT 2:30 P.M. I MET WITH OPERATOR, OPERATOR OF MOTORBOAT. ACCORDING TO OPERATOR, ON FRIDAY, MAY 26, 2023 AT APPROXIMATELY 11:00 P.M. SHE AND HER FRIENDS LEFT IN HER FATHER'S MOTORBOAT TO THE SOUTHEAST END OF CEDAR LAKE TO PICK UP A FRIEND. OPERATOR STATED THAT IT WAS COLD, BREEZY AND MODERATE WATER CONDITIONS AND THERE WERE NUMEROUS BLANKETS ON BOARD. ON THE WAY BACK, OPERATOR STOOD UP, REACHED TOWARDS THE BACK OF THE MOTORBOAT FOR A BLANKET. SOMEHOW HER FEET BECAME CAUGHT UP IN THE BLANKET AND SHE FELL FORWARD ONTO THE THROTTLE OF THE MOTORBOAT AND COULD NOT REGAIN CONTROL OF IT. THE BOAT TURNED TO THE LEFT AND STRUCK THE FLOATING DREDGE PIPELINE. THE BOAT CAME TO A HARD STOP AND STARTING TAKING ON A SIGNIFICANT AMOUNT OF WATER. OPERATOR CALLED A FRIEND WHO TOWED THE BOAT BACK TO HER RESIDENCE WHERE IT WAS PLACED ON A BOAT LIFT. OPERATOR ADVISED NO ONE WAS INJURED WHEN THE COLLISION OCCURRED. OPERATOR ADVISED THAT THE BOAT WAS TRAVELLING JUST ABOVE IDLE SPEED PRIOR TO THE ACCIDENT. OPERATOR ALSO STATED SHE DID NOT SEE ANY LIGHTS ON A BUOY OR THE BOOSTER PUMP THAT NIGHT.    
     
         DAMAGE TO THE MOTORBOAT INCLUDED BREAKING OFF OF THE DRIVE SHAFT, PROPELLER AND RUDDER OF THE MOTORBOAT CAUSING A LARGE HOLE IN THE BOTTOM OF THE MOTORBOAT CAUSING APPROXIMATELY $25000 DAMAGE. DAMAGE TO THE PIPELINE WHERE THE PROPELLER HIT IT AND BECAME STUCK.   
     
         AT 6:00 P.M. I MET WITH A SUPERVISOR FOR DREDGE AMERICA. SUPERVISOR ADVISED THE NIGHT OF MAY 26 HE COULD SEE THE LIGHTS WORKING ON THE BUOY AND BOOSTER PUMP. FROM THE BOOSTER PUMP SOUTH TO THE LIGHTED BUOY IS APPROXIMATELY 200 FEET. SUPERVISOR ESTIMATED A FIVE FOOT SECTION OF THE PIPELINE WILL HAVE TO BE REPLACED. COST OF REPAIR TO THE PIPELINE IS ESTIMATED AT $5000.00    
     
         AT 9:00 P.M. I PARKED SOUTH OF THE LIGHTHOUSE RESTAURANT IS A VACANT LOT. I COULD VISUALLY SEE THE LIGHTS ON THE BUOY AND BOOSTER PUMP WERE OPERATIONAL.    
     
         ON SUNDAY, MAY 28, 2023 AT APPROXIMATELY 2:30 P.M. I MET WITH PASSENGER, WHO WAS A PASSENGER IN THE MOTORBOAT, AT CEDAR LAKE POLICE DEPARTMENT WITH HER MOTHER BECAUSE SHE IS 16 YEARS OLD. PASSENGER ADVISED THEY LEFT AT APPROXIMATELY 11:00 P.M. WITH OPERATOR OPERATING THE MOTORBOAT TO THE SOUTHEAST END OF THE LAKE TO PICK UP A FRIEND. PASSENGER SAID THEY WERE TRAVELLING JUST ABOVE IDLE SPEED BECAUSE IT WAS COLD OUT AND THERE WERE BLANKETS IN THE BOAT.ON THEIR WAY BACK OPERATOR STOOD UP AND REACHED BEHIND HER TO GRAB A BLANKET. WHEN OPERATOR GRABBED THE BLANKET,SHE FELL FORWARD HITTING THE THROTTLE. THE MOTORBOAT TOOK OFF PUSHING EVERYONE BACKWARDS. OPERATOR GRABBED THE STEERING WHEEL WITH HER LEFT HAND, AND IN DOING SO, TURNED THE BOAT LEFT INTO THE FLOATING DREDGE PIPELINE. WHEN THE PIPELINE WAS STRUCK, EVERYONE WENT FORWARD. WHEN THE MOTORBOAT CAME TO A STOP WATER STARTED COMING INTO THE BOAT. AT THAT POINT, A FRIEND WAS CALLED TO TOW THE BOAT BACK TO OPERATOR'S RESIDENCE. PASSENGER STATED THAT NO ONE WAS INJURED AND PRIOR TO THE ACCIDENT THE MOTORBOAT WAS TRAVELLING JUST ABOVE IDLE. PASSENGER ESTIMATED THE BOAT WAS PROBABLY GOING 35 MPH OR SO WHEN THE PIPELINE WAS STRUCK.    
 


BARDID: IN-2023-0020
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2023-05-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:45:00
State: IN
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Maxinkuckee
NearestCityTown: Culver
County: Marshall
WaterConditions: Rough
HazardousWaters: Y
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Equipment failure
EquipmentFailure: Auxiliary
OtherEquipmentFailure: bilge pump broke
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
RedactedNarrative:
ON SATURDAY MAY 27, 2023, I, ICO 1, WAS PATROLLING ST. JOSEPH COUNTY WITH ICO 2 WHEN I WAS CONTACTED BY MARSHALL COUNTY DISPATCH ABOUT A BOAT ACCIDENT AT LAKE MAXINKUCKEE IN CULVER, IN. THEY INFORMED ME THE CRASH OCCURRED AT THE PUBLIC BOAT LAUNCH ON WEST SHORE DRIVE. 

UPON ARRIVAL TO THE LAKE MAXINKUCKEE PUBLIC BOAT LAUNCH, I OBSERVED ONE FISHING BOAT OVERTURNED AND TIED OFF TO ONE OF THE PIERS. THE BOAT REGISTRATION NUMBER WAS STILL ABOVE WATER. I ASKED ICO CENTRAL DISPATCH TO RUN THE REGISTRATION NUMBER. THEY INFORMED ME INDIANA BOAT REGISTRATION NUMBER BELONGED TO A MALE INDIVIDUAL NAMED OPERATOR. THERE WAS A MAN STANDING NEAR THE BOAT AND I CONFIRMED IT WAS THE OWNER, OPERATOR. 

I INTERVIEWED OPERATOR AND ASKED HIM WHAT HAPPENED. OPERATOR STATED HE WAS FISHING IN ABOUT FIVE FEET OF WATER AND USING HIS TROLLING MOTOR. HE CONTINUED SAYING THEY WERE MOVING ALONG WHEN HIS PARTNER SUDDENLY INFORMED HIM THERE WAS WATER COMING IN OVER THE BACK OF THE BOAT. OPERATOR STATED AT FIRST, HE THOUGHT HE MIGHT HAVE FORGOTTEN THE BOAT PLUG, BUT ON SECOND THOUGHT BELIEVED THE ONLY WAY THEY WERE TAKING ON WATER WAS THAT THE BILGE PUMP BROKE OFF AND WAS SUCKING WATER INTO THE BACK OF THE BOAT. HE SAID THE BOAT BEGAN TO SINK IMMEDIATELY AND INFORMED ME HE WAS CLOSE TO A PIER. OPERATOR SAID HE GOT OUT OF THE BOAT AND PULLED THE BOAT CLOSE TO THE PIER BEFORE WITNESS CAME AND TOWED THE BOAT BACK TO THE PIER WHERE IT WAS WHEN I ARRIVED. OPERATOR STATED THE BOAT STAYED UPRIGHT UNTIL THEY GOT IT BACK TO THE PUBLIC BOAT LAUNCH. ONCE BACK AT THE BOAT LAUNCH, THE BOAT TOOK ON ENOUGH WATER AND OVERTURNED. 

I LOCATED WITNESS AND CONFIRMED WHAT HAPPENED WITH HIM. WITNESS STATED HE WAS NEARBY WHEN OPERATOR'S BOAT BEGAN TAKING ON WATER. HE THEN WENT OVER AND TOWED OPERATOR'S BOAT BACK TO SHORE WHERE IT TOOK ON WATER AND OVERTURNED. REICHERT-KNEPP TOWING ARRIVED AND WAS ABLE TO GET THE BOAT OUT OF THE WATER AND ONTO A FLATBED TOW TRUCK TO BE TOWED AWAY.


BARDID: IN-2023-0021
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-05-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:20:00
State: IN
NameOfBodyOfWater: St. Joseph River
NearestCityTown: Mishawaka
County: St. Joseph
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Collision with fixed object
RedactedNarrative:
DETAILS OF INVESTIGATION/INCIDENT:                   
(MAY 28, 2023, AT 5:28 PM)                
I, INDIANA CONSERVATION OFFICER (ICO) 1, WAS ON PATROL IN ST JOSEPH COUNTY WHEN I RECEIVED INFORMATION FROM THE DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES DISPATCH ABOUT A BOAT ACCIDENT ON THE ST JOSEPH RIVER IN ST JOSEPH COUNTY. THE ACCIDENT OCCURRED AT WYLAND'S MARINA LOCATED AT 13100 JEFFERSON BLVD, MISHAWAKA, IN 46545 AT APPROXIMATELY 1:20 PM. I ARRIVED ON SCENE AT APPROXIMATELY 2:00 PM.         
                 
I SPOKE TO V2 OWNER, THE OWNER OF THE DOCKED BOAT THAT WAS STRUCK. V2 OWNER SHOWED ME WHERE HIS BLUE 2022 GODFREY SWEETWATER PONTOON WAS DOCKED. V2 OWNER'S PONTOON WAS DOCKED IN THE WATER ON THE ST JOSEPH RIVER NEXT TO AN EMPTY SLIP. V2 OWNER EXPLAINED TO ME THAT AN EMPLOYEE (NOT ON SCENE) OF THE MARINA WITNESSED AN OLDER RUNABOUT STYLE BOAT THAT WAS DOCKED NEXT TO V2 OWNER'S BOAT. V2 OWNER SUSPECTED THAT WHEN THE OTHER BOAT LEFT IT STRUCK HIS PONTOON. I TOOK PHOTOS OF THE DAMAGED REAR LADDER AND PROP. THE DOCK WHERE V2 OWNER WAS TIED OFF TO WAS ALSO DAMAGED. THE POLES TO THE DOCK WERE BENT AND THE DOCK WAS OUT OF ALIGNMENT. V2 OWNER EXPLAINED TO ME THAT THE EMPLOYEE STATED THAT THE RUNABOUT DOCKED THERE OVERNIGHT AFTER HAVING MECHANICAL ISSUES AND WAS NOT PERMITTED TO BE THERE. THE EMPLOYEE STATED THAT A BLACK CHEVY COLORADO PARKED NEAR THE RUNABOUT AND THE OCCUPANTS OF THAT VEHICLE REPAIRED THE RUNABOUT AND LEFT THE SCENE AFTER WRECKING INTO HIS BOAT.      
      
I MADE CONTACT WITH THE ORIGINAL CALLER OVER THE PHONE, WITNESS, WHO IS EMPLOYED AT THE MARINA. WITNESS STATED THAT ANOTHER EMPLOYEE SAW A BLUE 1968 EVINRUDE FIBERGLASS HULL RUNABOUT STYLE BOAT WITH MICHIGAN REGISTRATION LEAVE THE SCENE AFTER THE ACCIDENT AND HEAD WEST TOWARDS ASH ROAD BRIDGE. HE DETERMINED THAT THEY MAY TRY AND TRAILER THE BOAT AT THE BOAT RAMP LOCATED AT ASH ROAD BRIDGE AND DROVE OVER THERE. HE WITNESSED A RUNABOUT BEING TOWED OUT OF THE RAMP ON A TRAILER WITH A COVER ON AND LEAVE NORTH ON ASH ROAD. HE WAS NOT SURE IF THIS WAS THE SAME RUNABOUT IN QUESTION.      
                 
         
(MAY 28, 2023, AT 11:45 AM)        
I WAS ABLE TO GET A REGISTERED OWNER AND ADDRESS TO THE CHEVY COLORADO. THE COLORADO IS REGISTERED TO V1 OPERATOR AND WAS ABLE TO TALK TO HER AT HER HOME. V1 OPERATOR ADMITTED TO BEING THE OPERATOR OF THE BOAT THAT STRUCK V2 OWNER'S PONTOON. V1 OPERATOR SHOWED ME HER BOAT, A 1968 EVINRUDE RUNABOUT WITH MICHIGAN REGISTRATION ON THE HULL. SHE DID HAVE A VALID INDIANA REGISTRATION FOR THE BOAT, BUT DID NOT UPDATE THE NUMBERS ON THE HULL TO THE CORRECT INDIANA REGISTRATION CHARACTERS.     
      
V1 OPERATOR STATED THAT THE NIGHT BEFORE THE ACCIDENT, HER BOAT BROKE DOWN NEAR THE MARINA AND WOULD NOT START. SHE DOCKED HER BOAT IN AN EMPTY SLIP ON THE MARINA'S DOCKS AND RETURNED THE NEXT DAY. SHE GOT HER BOAT STARTED THE NEXT DAY AND WHEN SHE BACKED OUT OF THE DOCK, THE CURRENT PUSHED HER INTO V2 OWNER'S PONTOON. V1 OPERATOR'S BOAT HAD DAMAGE TO THE REAR PORT SIDE OF HER BOAT. A BROKEN PIECE OF RUBBER OFF THE TRIM RAIL, SCRATCHES ON ALUMINUM REAR CORNER TRIM, AND A SCRATCH TO THE FIBERGLASS HULL.      
      
I ASKED V1 OPERATOR IF SHE CONTACTED ANYONE TO REPORT THE ACCIDENT. V1 OPERATOR STATED THAT SHE LEFT A VOICEMAIL WITH THE MARINA ABOUT THE BOAT ACCIDENT BUT DID NOT CONTACT LAW ENFORCEMENT. SHE SHOWED ME A SCREEN SHOT OF HER CALL LOGS WHERE SHE CONTACTED WYLAND'S MARINA AT 11:49 AM AND LEFT A MESSAGE. V1 OPERATOR GAVE ME HER PHONE NUMBER, SO I COULD CHECK WITH WYLAND'S MARINA'S VOICEMAIL SYSTEM.      
      
(JUNE 1, 2023, AT 10:00 AM)     
I SPOKE TO WYLAND'S MARINA. WYLAND'S MARINA WAS ABLE TO PROVIDE ME WITH A RECORDING HE TOOK OF V1 OPERATOR'S VOICEMAIL SHE LEFT. THE VOICEMAIL IS V1 OPERATOR STATING THAT SHE PARKED HER BOAT OVER NIGHT AND RETURNED TO FIX HER BOAT. IN THE VOICEMAIL SHE ASKED IF SOMEONE COULD HELP HER FIX IT SO SHE COULD LEAVE. SHE LEFT A CALL BACK NUMBER ON THE RECORDING, THE SAME NUMBER THAT V1 OPERATOR PROVIDED ME. AT NO POINT IN THE RECORDING DID V1 OPERATOR MENTION THE ACCIDENT.      
      
(JUNE 2, 2023, AT 5:10 PM)     
I ISSUED V1 OPERATOR SUMMONS FOR THE FOLLOWING VIOLATIONS.     
      
14-15-4-2: FAILURE TO REPORT PROPERTY DAMAGE WATERCRAFT CRASH.     
14-15-4-1: LEAVING THE SCENE OF PROPERTY DAMAGE WATERCRAFT CRASH.     
9-18.1-14.5-5: IMPROPER DISPLAY OF WATERCRAFT REGISTRATION.  


BARDID: IN-2023-0022
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-05-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
State: IN
NameOfBodyOfWater: Koontz Lake
NearestCityTown: Walkerton
County: Marhsall
WaterConditions: Rough
HazardousWaters: Y
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Skier mishap
RedactedNarrative:
Prelude:          
           
I responded to a boat crash in Marshall County. The crash left one person with a fractured pelvis.          
              
Details of the Investigation/Incident:          
On 5/28/2023, I, Indiana Conservation Officer was contacted by ICO Dispatch Center about a boat crash. At approximately 3:14 P.M., I arrived at the crash at Koontz Lake.         
  
When I arrived at the shoreline nearest where the crash occurred, the boats and occupants had already exited the water. The lake was crowded, and the water was choppy. The weather was sunny and warm.         

I located the operators and began questioning them separately. The watercraft operated by Operator1 – a white 1996 GW invader runabout with Indiana registration. The boat was towing a red and blue Wow Max tube. Three occupied the tube, and each were wearing personal flotation devices. He was travelling at approximately twenty miles per hour in a counterclockwise direction, approximately 400 feet from shore.   

The watercraft operated by Operator2 – a white 2000 Godfrey Marine Pontoon with Indiana registration. He was travelling in front of Operator1 at idle speed in a counterclockwise direction, approximately 400 feet from shore.  

As the distance between vessels diminished, unbeknownst to Operator2, Operator1 intended to overtake/pass him on his starboard/right side. As Operator1 turned to starboard and decreased his speed, he lost control of the tube in tow. The tube continued to swing to his port side. The tube and occupants struck the stern/back end of Operator2's port/left side. Operator2's pontoon boat received damage to the fence rail and panel above the deck. After impacting the pontoon, the occupants of the tube were ejected and left floating in the water.  

After the crash occurred, Operator1 retrieved the 3 tube occupants from the water. He placed them in his boat and idled a short distance to his boat and assured that all occupants were accounted for, then returned to the Southeast end of the lake.      
    
I read the Indiana implied consent warning for a fatal or serious bodily injury crash from my department issued card to both operators. I administered a portable breath test to Operator2, which registered a 0.00. I administered a portable breath test to Operator1, which also registered a 0.00.   
       
Starke County EMS  transported two people to South Bend Memorial Hospital. One suffered a fractured pelvis in the crash. Another received stitches for minor cuts on his forehead. Operator1's runabout did not sustain damage. No injuries were sustained by the occupants inside the watercrafts.           

I located all the passengers from both watercrafts. I recorded their witness testimonies on an electronic voice recording. All witness testimonies agreed with one another.  I documented the damage to Operator2's watercraft with several photographs.           
Operator1 and Operator2 stated they maintain their watercrafts routinely and at the time of the accident were operating normally.        
The accident occurred due to Operator1 being unable to maintain control of the tube in tow while overtaking Operator2's pontoon.   


BARDID: IN-2023-0023
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-05-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:00:00
State: IN
NameOfBodyOfWater: Tippecanoe River
NearestCityTown: Battle Ground
County: Tippecanoe
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Details of Incident/Investigation:   
On Sunday, May 28th at approximately 9:50 am, I, Indiana Conservation Officer, was dispatched to a personal injury boat crash.  I was advised to respond to a boat ramp in the area of Arrow Point Court.  The crash happened on the Tippecanoe River just into Tippecanoe County near the White County line at an unknown time.  As I was arriving on scene, the ambulance was leaving with the victim of the boat crash for IU Arnett hospital in Lafayette. I was advised by a White County Sheriff's Deputy on scene that a subject with a boat would be able to take me to the boat crash scene.  I advised the Deputy to contact the ambulance service for me and advise the hospital that I would need a certified blood draw for my investigation.  Before meeting the subject with the boat, I first spoke with two witnesses near the boat ramp.           

Subject1 advised that she had been contacted by her sister-n-law in reference to Operator not returning to his residence from boating the previous day, Saturday, May 27th.  Subject1 advised that Sister-in-law had received 2 text messages from a friend on the evening of the 27th that Operator's boat had not returned to his residence.  Subject1 advised that her and her family had "unofficially adopted" Operator into their family.  

Subject1 advised that they checked his residence on the 28th and confirmed that his boat was not home.  Subject1 advised that she then began checking along the river.  Subject1 advised that they located the boat up stream from the ramp on Arrow Point Court.  Subject1's dad used his boat to go and check on Operator's boat.  Subject2 and Subject3 went to Operator's boat and located him in the water, still breathing and with severe facial injuries.  Subject2 and Subject3 transported Operator back to the boat ramp as Subject1 contacted the White County Dispatch Center for assistance.      
   
I then went to the boat ramp and met with Subject3.  I got into Subject3's boat and he transported me up river to the crash scene.  The front of the boat was up on a stump protruding from the water on the north bank.  Subject3 explained to me that they found Operator laying in the water, almost completely submerged with his face just above the water line somewhat between the river bank and the boat.  Subject3 said that Operator appeared to breathing and would only make incoherent mumbling type noises.  

I then began to take photographs of the boat.  There was a significant amount of blood all over the boat from one end to the other.  The throttle control was broken and the canopy top was broken off and laying in the water behind the boat.  There was also a large amount of Bud Light beer cans all over the bottom of the boat.  After taking photographs of the boat, I got back into Subject3's boat.  To get to the boat crash scene Subject3 had to get out and pull the boat across a gravel bar in the river and we were on the north side of an island that separates the river.  

With it being that shallow and since I am not very familiar with that part of the river I asked Subject3 if that was the side of the island that most people go on when on the river.  Subject3 advised that most people go on the other side of the island to stay in the deeper part of the river.  Where we were at along the bank and with the weeds and trees growing on the island and along the bank, it was difficult to see from where we were out to the main channel of the river.  Subject3 advised that you can make it by going on the north side but you have to be up on plane to have any chance of not getting hung up in the shallow water on the gravel bar.  When we arrived back at the boat ramp, Subject3's son was there.  Subject4 was going to help Subject3 get Operator's boat off of the river.         

When I arrived at the hospital, I met with the nurses in the emergency room who were attending to Operator.  I advised them that I would be needing a certified blood draw and they advised that they had the certified  kits and would be able to do that for me.  I observed the blood draw later while at the hospital.  I advised them about what little information I had obtained in reference to boat crash.  I then met with Sister-in-law.  Sister-in-law advised that she had received a text message at 9:37 pm on the 27th from a friend at Operator's neighbor's house that Operator's boat had not returned to his residence yet.  Sister-in-law advised that she received another text message at 10:45 pm advising that Operator's boat was still not back.  Sister-in-law advised that she had gone to bed before receiving the second text and did not see it until the next morning the 28th.  After seeing the text message the next morning, Sister-in-law advised that she contacted Subject1 to advise her about Operator's boat not being back.  Sister-in-law was then informed by Subject1 that Operator had been located and the seriousness of his situation.  While I was speaking with Sister-in-law, the attending emergency room physician came into the room and updated us on Operator's condition.  

Dr. advised that Operator was hypothermic and would only respond to painful stimuli.  Dr. also advised that Operator's heart did stop at one time and they had to perform CPR and use medication to resuscitate him.  Dr. also advised that Operator had suffered head injuries, that he was getting scans done to look for any other possible injuries, and that he would be transferred to IU Methodist in Indianapolis.  I asked Sister-in-law if she knew anything about what Operator was doing the day prior to him being located.  Sister-in-law advised that she knew he was on the river in his boat and that she thought he was possibly with a female.  Sister-in-law advised that she was not sure what the other subject’s last name was.          

As I was walking out of the hospital, I saw Subject4 talking to a female who turned out to be Subject5. Subject5 advised me that she had been with Operator from about 12:00 pm to 7:00 pm.  Subject5 advised that she drove to Operator's house and then they got into Operator's boat to go out on the river for the afternoon.  Subject5 advised that they had been boating on the river, stopping at "Priest Island" and visiting/hanging out with other people on the river all afternoon.  Subject5 advised that her and Operator left the island and went up to a residence.  

Subject5 was not sure exactly where the residence was at.  Subject5 only knew that it was up river from where they had been earlier closer to Oakdale Dam.  Subject5 advised that they took 2 different boats back to Priest Island where her and Operator had left some items including a cooler containing food.  Subject5 advised that they picked up the cooler and then Operator took off in his boat as she left to go down stream at approximately 7:00 pm.  I asked Subject5 why she got into the boat with another person when she had been boating with Operator all afternoon.  Subject5 advised that she tried to get Operator to let her drive his boat back to his


BARDID: IN-2023-0024
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2023-05-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:28:00
State: IN
NameOfBodyOfWater: Jimmerson Lake
NearestCityTown: Fremont
County: Steuben
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Sinking
RedactedNarrative:
ON MAY 28, 2023 AT APPROXIMATELY 2:28 PM, I, INDIANA CONSERVATION OFFICER 1, AND INDIANA CONSERVATION 2, RECEIVED A CALLED ABOUT A SINKING BOAT ON JIMMERSON LAKE IN STEUBEN COUNTY. STEUBEN COUNTY DISPATCH ADVISED THAT THE BOAT OPERATOR WAS OUT OF THE WATER BUT THE BOAT HAD SANK.               
ICO 2 AND I ARRIVED MOMENTS LATER AND OBSERVED THE OPERATOR OF THE SUNKEN BOAT SAFELY ON ANOTHER PWC. ONCE WE ARRIVED, I NOTICED A MAN SITTING ON THE BACK OF THE PWC WITH A RED HELMET THAT WAS WET AND SHAKING. WE ASK THE MAN IF HE WAS OKAY AND  IF HE NEEDED ANY MEDICAL ATTENTION. THE MAN, IDENTIFIED AS OPERATOR, ADVISED THAT HE WAS OKAY AND DID NOT NEED ANY MEDICAL ATTENTION. THE OPERATOR OF THE PWC THAT HAD HELPED OPERATOR OUT OF THE WATER, STATED THAT THE PWC HAD ALREADY SUNK TO THE BOTTOM AND THAT WAS CLOSE TO THE SHORE. OPERATOR STATED THAT IT WAS HIS NEW PWC THAT HAD SUNK. WE THEN ASKED WHERE IT WAS LOCATED AND HOW FAR OFF SHORE THE PWC WAS. OPERATOR STATED THAT IT WAS INSIDE THE SWIMMING BUOYS, BETWEEN THE BUOYS AND THE SWIM PLATFORM. WE APPROACHED THE VESSEL AND HELP OPERATOR ONTO OUR PATROL BOAT. WHEN OPERATOR WAS SITTING ON OUR BOAT, WE ASKED HIM WHAT HAD HAPPENED. OPERATOR EXPLAINED THAT HIS BATTERY HAD DIED WHICH MADE HIS BILGE PUMP STOP WORKING. HE THEN BEGAN TAKING ON WATER CAUSING THE VESSEL TO SINK.   
WE THEN TRANSPORTED OPERATOR TO CORNER LANDING WHERE HIS VEHICLE WAS LOCATED. ONCE AT THE CORNER LANDING, I THEN WENT WITH OPERATOR TO HIS VEHICLE TO RETRIEVE HIS DRIVER'S LICENSE AND BOAT REGISTRATION. I THEN PROVIDED OPERATOR WITH THE CASE REPORT NUMBER AND ADVISED HIM THAT WE WOULD BE IN CONTACT WITH HIM TO GET HIS BOAT OUT OF THE WATER.    


BARDID: IN-2023-0026
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-05-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 07:30:00
State: IN
NameOfBodyOfWater: Geist Reservoir
NearestCityTown: Indianapolis
County: Marion
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Restricted vision
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
ON JUNE 9TH, 2023, I MEET WITH V2 OWNER ABOUT A BOAT ACCIDENT THAT HAPPENED ON MAY 28TH, 2023 AT APPROXIMATELY 7:30 P.M. V2 OWNER SAID THE ACCIDENT HAPPENED ON GEIST RESERVOIR AT THE SHOREWALK DRIVE MARINA. 
I ASKED V2 OWNER WHAT HAPPENED. V2 OWNER SAID THAT HIS BOAT A BLUE MASTERCRAFT WAS DOCKED WHEN A BLUE CROWNLINE, OPERATED BY V1 OPERATOR, HIT THE SWIM DECK OF HIS BOAT AS IT WAS EXITING THE DOCKS. V2 OWNER SAID THAT HE WAS JUST WORKING IN THE BOAT WHEN HE GOT HIT. I ASKED V2 OWNER IF HE WAS INJURED, AND HE SAID NO. 
THE CROWNLINE HAD SOME SCRATCH MARKS ON THE BACK PORT SIDE OF THE BOAT. THE MASTERCRAFT WAS SCRATCHED ALONG THE SWIM DECK ALONG WITH SOME CRACKS IN THE FIBER GLASS ALONG THE STERN OF THE BOAT. AFTER TALKING WITH V2 OWNER, THE BOAT ALSO HAS HAD SOME DAMAGE DONE TO THE WATER BLADDER.
ON JUNE 15TH, 2023, I TALKED WITH V1 OPERATOR TO GET HIS SIDE OF THE STORY. V1 OPERATOR SAID HE WAS LEAVING THE DOCK NEXT TO V2 OWNER WHEN HE HIT V2 OWNER SWIM DECK WITH THE BACK LEFT SIDE OF HIS BOAT. V1 OPERATOR SAID HE THOUGHT HE HAD CLEARED THE BOAT, SO HE SPED UP WHICH CAUSED HIS BACK END TO HIT V2 OWNER'S BOAT. V1 OPERATOR SAID THAT HE HAD A SCRATCH ON HIS FIBERGLASS BOAT IS THE ONLY DAMAGE TO HIS BOAT.


BARDID: IN-2023-0027
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2023-07-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:40:00
State: IN
NameOfBodyOfWater: Hardy Lake
NearestCityTown: Scottsburg
County: Scott
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Failure to vent
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
RedactedNarrative:
ON JULY 23, 2023 AT APPROXIMATELY 1740, I, INDIANA CONSERVATION OFFICER 1, RECEIVED A CALL FROM DISPATCH REFERENCE A BOAT ON FIRE AT THE ALPHA BOAT RAMP AT HARDY LAKE. I RESPONDED AND ARRIVED AT APPROXIMATELY 1750. THE BOAT WAS STILL SMOKING BUT THE FLAMES HAD BEEN EXTINGUISHED BY THE FIRE DEPARTMENT WHEN I ARRIVED. 
I SPOKE WITH THE OWNER/OPERATOR OF THE BOAT. HE STATED THAT HE STARTED HIS BOAT UP AND LET IT RUN FOR SEVERAL SECONDS. HE STATED HIS MOTOR THEN EXPLODED AND HE JUMPED IN THE WATER. I ASKED HIM IF HE VENTED HIS MOTOR SINCE IT WAS AN INBOARD MOTOR, AND HE DID NOT KNOW WHAT I WAS TALKING ABOUT. I ASKED HIM IF HE HAS ANY INSURANCE ON THE BOAT AND HE STATED HE DID NOT. HE HAD JUST PURCHASED THE BOAT A COUPLE OF WEEKS AGO AND PROVIDED PAPERWORK ON THAT. 
THE FIRE DEPARTMENT MANAGED TO PUT THE FIRE COMPLETELY OUT AND I ASSESSED THE BOAT BEFORE IT WAS TOWED. THE BOAT WAS COMPLETELY TOTALED WITH ONLY THE MOTOR AND OUTER HULL INTACT. MIDNIGHT TOWING TOOK THE BOAT TO THEIR LOT.


BARDID: IN-2023-0028
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:03:00
State: IN
NameOfBodyOfWater: Crooked Lake
NearestCityTown: Angola
County: Steuben
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
RedactedNarrative:
On july 26, 2023, at approximately 12:35 pm, i indiana conservation officer 1, and indiana conservation officer 2, received a call about a boat accident dealing with a juvenile and a wake board on crooked lake.     
Indiana conservation officer 3 and indiana conservation officer 4 arrived at crooked lake to speak with witnesses. Officer 3 informed me that the juvenile, identified as operator, was riding an electric body board with 2024 indiana registration bearing at crooked lake beach and rode the electric body board into a dock. Officer 3 received all information dealing with the electric body board and spoke with witnesses at the incident.     
Officer 2 and i went to the hospital to meet with the family and operator. I met with the mother, identified as witness. When i spoke with witness, she stated that there were some lacerations above and below operator's left eye and a broken nose but nothing further due to parkview hospital running scans on operator's head. I finished speaking with witness and advise her that i would be in contact with her to see if any further injuries were found.     
On july 27, 2023, i contacted witness to see if any further injuries were found from scans through the hospital. Witness stated that there were no other injuries, and that operator was released from the hospital the morning of july 27th.


BARDID: IN-2023-0029
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:35:00
State: IN
NameOfBodyOfWater: Geist
NearestCityTown: Fishers
County: Hamilton
WaterConditions: Rough
HazardousWaters: Y
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent3: Other
OtherAccidentEvent: Person tangled in vessel equip
RedactedNarrative:
The jet ski rolled over in rough water just outside the idle zone bouys and ejected all occupants. Operator got back on the jet ski. Two others were still in the water. The three were preparing to waterski and the jet ski was not running correctly. The ski rope was floating in the water near occupant1. Operator tried a mechanical feature on the jet ski to clear the impeller thinking that it was clogged. During this action, the jet ski took off at a high rate of speed. The floating rope around occupant1 got tangled on his right hand and caused severe trauma to his thumb/hand. Subject1 was floating in the water near occupant1 when the incident occurred and witnessed the event.


BARDID: IN-2023-0030
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:30:00
State: IN
NameOfBodyOfWater: Morse Reservoir
NearestCityTown: Noblesville
County: Hamilton
WaterConditions: Rough
HazardousWaters: Y
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Collision with fixed object
RedactedNarrative:
PRELUDE: MYSELF AND OFFICER 2 RESPONDED TO A BOAT ACCIDENT AT THE MORSE MARINA. WE INTERVIEWED THE INVOLVED PERSONS AND COMPLETED A BOAT ACCIDENT REPORT.

INVOLVED PERSONS:
V1 OPERATOR - OPERATOR ONE
V2 OPERATOR - OPERATOR TWO (OWNER) 
INDIANA CONSERVATION OFFICER 2 - OFFICER

DETAILS OF THE INVESTIGATION:
ON SUNDAY JULY 30, 2023, AT APPROXIMATELY 3:30 PM I INDIANA CONSERVATION OFFICER 1 RESPONDED TO A BOAT ACCIDENT WITH INDIANA CONSERVATION OFFICER 2.

OFFICER 2 INTERVIEWED V1 OPERATOR AND I INTERVIEWED V2 OWNER.

V2 OWNER STATED HE WAS WEIGHING IN WITH HIS FISH AFTER A BASS TOURNAMENT AND HIS BOAT WAS DOCKED IN A SLIP WHEN THE ACCIDENT OCCURRED. V2 OWNER ALSO ADVISED THAT V1 OPERATOR WAS TRYING TO LEAVE THE SCENE AND ONLY LEAVE HIS PHONE NUMBER AFTER THE ACCIDENT. 

V2 OWNER EXPLAINED THAT WHEN V1 OPERATOR WAS ATTEMPTING TO DOCK HIS RENTAL PONTOON ANOTHER BOAT WAS LEAVING THE DOCK AND IT SEEMED LIKE V1 OPERATOR TRIED TO RAPIDLY ACCELERATE IN REVERSE TO AVOID COLLISION WITH THAT VESSEL. ALTHOUGH V1 OPERATOR ACCELERATED FORWARD CAUSING THE MID PORT SIDE OF HIS RENTED VESSEL TO COLLIDE WITH THE REAR PORT SIDE OF V2 OWNER'S BOAT. V2 OWNER ALSO ADVISED THAT THERE WAS ADDITIONAL DAMAGE INCURRED ON HIS BOAT FROM CONTACTING THE DOCK. 

DURING THE COURSE OF OUR INVESTIGATION, ICO DISPATCH INFORMED OFFICER 2 AND I THAT V1 OPERATOR HAD AN ACTIVE WARRANT OUT OF MARION COUNTY. OFFICER 2 ASKED IF DISPATCH COULD CONFIRM THE WARRANT WHILE I TOOK V1 OPERATOR INTO CUSTODY. DISPATCH CONFIRMED THE WARRANT TO BE ACTIVE AND THEY ADVISED THAT MARION COUNTY WOULD EXTRADITE AND PICK UP V1 OPERATOR FROM THE HAMILTON COUNTY JAIL.  

WHILE PREPARING A SUPPLEMENT REPORT, OFFICER 2 DID AN NCIC SEARCH FOR V1 OPERATOR AND HE CAME BACK SUSPENDED INFRACTION. ICO DISPATCH DID NOT INFORM ME OR OFFICER 2 OF THE SUSPENSION WHILE WE WERE ON SCENE AND CONDUCTING OUR INITIAL INVESTIGATION.

IN TOTAL, THERE WAS DAMAGE ON THE PORT SIDE FIBERGLASS FROM THE INITIAL CONTACT OF V1 OPERATOR'S BOAT AND ON THE STARBOARD SIDE FIBERGLASS FROM COLLIDING WITH THE DOCK. ALONG WITH THE DAMAGE TO THE MOTOR COWING, THE PORT SIDE POWER POLE AND MOUNT, CRACKED GEL COAT, BENT JACK PLATE, AND THE BOARDING LADDER.  

ATTACHMENTS: (ON I:DRIVE)
17 PHOTOGRAPHS 

CURRENT DISPOSITION: SUBMITTED TO DISTRICT 4 HEADQUARTERS FOR REVIEW.


BARDID: IN-2023-0031
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2023-08-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:50:00
State: IN
NameOfBodyOfWater: Mud Lake
NearestCityTown: Fremont
County: Steuben
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Overloading
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
RedactedNarrative:
ON AUGUST 12, 2023, AT APPROXIMATELY 9:50 PM, I, INDIANA CONSERVATION OFFICER 1 AND INDIANA CONSERVATION OFFICER 2 RECEIVED A CALL FROM STEUBEN COUNTY DISPATCH DEALING WITH FOUR VICTIMS IN THE WATER AT MUD LAKE IN FREMONT, INDIANA AT LAKEVIEW DR.    
OFFICER 2 AND I LEFT POKAGON STATE PARK TO GO TO MUD LAKE. ONCE OFFICER 2 AND I ARRIVED, WE SPOKE WITH FREMONT FIRE DEPARTMENT AND THEY ADVISED THAT ONE FREMONT FIRE DEPT. PERSONNEL AND THE HOMEOWNER, LATER IDENTIFIED AS OPERATOR, WERE ON PADDLEBOARDS WITH THE CAPSIZED BOAT AND THE VICTIMS IN THE WATER, PADDLING BACK TO THE SHORELINE. ONCE EVERYONE WAS BACK TO THE SHORELINE, THE VICTIMS WERE ESCORTED TO EMS THAT WAS AT THE HOUSEHOLD. I SPOKE WITH OPERATOR, THE HOMEOWNER AND THE FOURTH VICTIM THAT WAS IN THE WATER. I ASKED OPERATOR WHAT HAD HAPPENED, OPERATOR EXPLAINED THAT PASSENGER 2 LEANED OVER THE BOAT AND THE BOAT BEGAN TAKING ON WATER. OPERATOR THOUGHT THE BEST IDEA WAS TO COMPLETELY TURN OVER THE BOAT AND CAPSIZE IT FOR BUOYANCY. THE VICTIMS LATER IDENTIFIED AS PASSENGER 2, UNIDENTIFIED, AND PASSENGER 1 THEN WENT ON TOP OF THE BOAT TO TRY TO REMAIN OUT OF THE WATER. OPERATOR THEN SWAM BACK TO HIS HOUSEHOLD, RAN INSIDE, AND EXPLAINED TO HIS WIFE THAT SHE NEEDED TO CALL 911. OPERATOR THEN RAN BACK TO THE WATER WITH A PADDLEBOARD AND PADDLED BACK TO THE CAPSIZED BOAT. I THEN ASKED OPERATOR IF THERE WERE ANY LIFEJACKETS ON THE BOAT. OPERATOR EXPLAINED THAT UNIDENTIFIED BEING 5 YEARS OLD WAS THE ONLY ONE WITH A LIFE JACKET ON BOARD. OPERATOR FURTHER EXPLAINED THAT THERE WERE TYPE IV THROWABLES ON BOARD. I ASKED OPERATOR IF HE COULD REMEMBER OR HAD PAPERWORK DEALING WITH THE REGISTRATION OF THE BOAT, OPERATOR ADVISED ME THAT THE BOAT DID NOT HAVE A REGISTRATION NUMBER TO IDENTIFY THE BOAT. I THEN COMPLETED MY INTERVIEW AND RECEIVED ALL MY INFORMATION THAT I NEEDED.  


BARDID: IN-2023-0032
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-08-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:30:00
State: IN
NameOfBodyOfWater: Geist Reservoir
NearestCityTown: Fishers
County: Hamilton
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
ON AUGUST 13, 2023 AT APPROXIMATELY 1630 HOURS I, INDIANA CONSERVATION OFFICER 1, WAS NOTIFIED BY ICO DISPATCH THAT A BOAT ACCIDENT HAD OCCURRED ON GEIST RESERVOIR. ICO 2, ICO 3 AND MYSELF THEN RESPONDED TO BROOKS SCHOOL ROAD IN FISHERS. ICO 2 AND I ARRIVED AT 1636 HOURS WHERE FISHERS PD, FIRE AND EMS WERE ON SCENE. MEDICS ON SCENE HAD EVALUATED ONE JUVENILE, INJURED 1, FOR A HEAD INJURY. INJURED 1 HAD BRUISING TO THE LEFT SIDE OF HER FACE, AND WAS VISIBLY SCARED AND UPSET. HOWEVER, FISHERS MEDICS ADVISED THEY DID NOT SEE ANY OBVIOUS SIGNS OF SERIOUS HEAD INJURY. SHORTLY AFTER OUR ARRIVAL, INJURED 1’S FAMILY ELECTED TO TRANSPORT HER TO COMMUNITY NORTH HOSPITAL THEMSELVES FOR FURTHER EXAMINATION. 
WE THEN SPOKE WITH V2 OPERATOR AFTER LEARNING THAT HIS BOAT, A 22’ MANITOU PONTOON, WAS INVOLVED IN THE ACCIDENT AND HAD TO BE TOWED BACK TO HIS SLIP AT GEIST MARINA DUE TO BEING DAMAGED. V2 OPERATOR WAS OCCUPIED BY V2 PASSENGER ON THE WATER AS WELL. V2 OPERATOR AND V2 PASSENGER STATED THEY HAD BEEN DRIFTING IN THE MIDDLE OF THE RESERVOIR WHILE FISHING. THEY WERE DRIFTING IN THE WATER TO THE SOUTHEAST OF THE ADDRESS THAT MYSELF AND OTHER UNITS HAD RESPONDED TO. V2 OPERATOR EXPLAINED THAT ANOTHER BOAT, A 25’ 4” BENNINGTON MARINE PONTOON, HAD BEEN CIRCLING THEM IN THE WATER LEADING UP TO HIS BOAT BEING HIT. V2 OPERATOR AND V2 PASSENGER SAID THAT THIS PONTOON WAS TOWING FOUR CHILDREN ON A TUBE. THEY ALSO FELT THAT THIS BOAT WAS TOO CLOSE TO THEM FOR THEIR SAFETY AND COMFORT. AFTER BEING CIRCLED SEVERAL TIMES, V2 OPERATOR RECALLED THAT THE BOAT CAME RIGHT AT HIS OWN BOAT, HEADING DIRECTLY INTO HIS STERN. V2 OPERATOR SAID THE BOAT THEN TURNED TO THE LEFT ABRUPTLY AND AVOIDED MAKING BOAT TO BOAT CONTACT. HOWEVER, THE CHILDREN BEING TOWED BEHIND IT WERE SENT CRASHING INTO HIS STERN AND ENGINE. V2 OPERATOR SAID HE THEN SAW A YOUNG GIRL, INJURED 1, FLOATING UNCONSCIOUS AND TAKING IN BREATHS OF WATER. HE THEN DROVE IN AND PULLED HER INTO HIS BOAT. BOTH MEN SAID INJURED 1 QUICKLY BEGAN SPITTING UP WATER AND BEGAN SPEAKING AFTER CLEARING HER AIRWAYS. SHORTLY AFTER THIS, V2 OPERATOR SAID THE CHILDREN WERE COLLECTED BACK INTO THE BOAT TOWING THEM. THIS BOAT THEN DROVE BACK TO BROOKS SCHOOL ROAD. BOTH MEN WERE DEEPLY SHAKEN AND CONCERNED FOR INJURED 1, AND SAID THEY INITIALLY DID NOT KNOW IF SHE WAS ALIVE AFTER THE IMPACT. 
V2 OPERATOR IDENTIFIED V1 OPERATOR AS THE OPERATOR OF THE OTHER PONTOON BOAT. HE AND V2 PASSENGER HAD TO BE TOWED BACK TO GEIST MARIA BY A GOOD SAMARITAN ON THE WATER THAT AFTERNOON BECAUSE HE WAS UNABLE TO STEER HIS BOAT AFTER THE CHILDREN AND TUBE IMPACTED HIS ENGINE. V2 OPERATOR SAID PRIOR TO THE ACCIDENT HIS ENGINE AND STEERING WHEEL WERE STRAIGHT. WHILE SPEAKING WITH HIM ON HIS BOAT I SAW THAT THE ENGINE WAS ANGLED TO THE LEFT AND WAS LOCKED IN PLACE AS THE CHILDREN IMPACTED IT ON THE RIGHT SIDE. I ASKED V2 OPERATOR TO CHECK TO SEE IF THE MOTOR WOULD RUN AND IT DID WITHOUT ISSUE. V2 OPERATOR SAID HE WOULD BE TAKING HIS BOAT TO BE REPAIRED BY MARIA AND CHECK FOR ADDITIONAL DAMAGE. HE SUSPECTED THE STEERING CABLE HAD BEEN BROKEN. V2 OPERATOR BELIEVED V1 OPERATOR WAS TRAVELING APPROXIMATELY 25 MPH AT THE TIME OF THE ACCIDENT.
LATER, ICO 3 AND I SPOKE WITH WITNESS AND HIS DAUGHTER, INJURED 1, AT COMMUNITY NORTH HOSPITAL. INJURED 1 UNDERWENT X-RAYS AND CT SCANS TO CHECK FOR BRAIN INJURIES AND BROKEN BONES. SHE SAID SHE WAS SORE AND HAD BRUISES ON THE LEFT SIDE OF HER FACE. SHE DID NOT REMEMBER MUCH OF THE ACCIDENT ITSELF. WITNESS SAID HE AND HIS FAMILY HAD BEEN ON THE WATER WITH V1 OPERATOR'S FAMILY FOR ROUGHLY 45 MINUTES BEFORE THE ACCIDENT, TAKING THEIR CHILDREN TUBING. HE SAID THAT V1 OPERATOR HAD BEEN OPERATING THAT AFTERNOON. WITNESS SAID THAT THEY WERE CIRCLING A DRIFTING PONTOON BOAT BEFORE THE ACCIDENT. HE SAID V1 OPERATOR HAD NOT BEEN DRINKING.
ICO 3 AND I THEN INTERVIEWED V1 OPERATOR AT HIS HOME. V1 OPERATOR SAID HE WAS ON THE BOAT WITH SEVEN OTHER ADULTS AND THE FOUR CHILDREN ON THE TUBE. HE TOLD US THAT OTHERS ON THE BOAT HAD BEEN DRINKING PRIOR TO THE INCIDENT, BUT STATED HE HAD NOT HAD NOT BEEN. V1 OPERATOR ADMITTED TO CIRCLING V2 OPERATOR’S BOAT SEVERAL TIMES LEADING UP TO THE ACCIDENT. V1 OPERATOR SAID DID NOT REALIZE HOW CLOSE HE WAS TO THE OTHER BOAT AND HAD BEEN DISTRACTED BY WATCHING THE CHILDREN FOR A FEW SECONDS MOMENTS BEFORE THEY IMPACTED. V1 OPERATOR DID SEE THE OTHER BOATING DRIFTING, BUT EXPLAINED THAT AFTER HE STOPPED WATCHING THE CHILDREN BEHIND HIM, IT WAS TOO LATE TO AVOID A COLLISION COMPLETELY. HE SAID HE CUT TO THE LEFT AS MUCH AS POSSIBLE TO AVOID V2 OPERATOR. ONCE CLEARED BY EMS, HE STATED THAT INJURED 1’S FAMILY WANTED HER TO BE SEEN AT COMMUNITY NORTH HOSPITAL AND HE DROVE THEM THERE.AFTER DROPPING OFF THE INJURED 1 AND WITNESS AT THE HOSPITAL HE RETURNED HOME WHERE HIS DAUGHTER, INJURED 2, WHO WAS ALSO ON THE TUBE, WAS COMPLAINING OF PAIN IN HER SHOULDER. V1 OPERATOR SAID SHE WAS THEN TAKEN TO THE HOSPITAL AND WAS FOUND TO HAVE A BROKEN COLLARBONE. 
V1 OPERATOR SAID HE HAS OPERATED MOTORBOATS FOR THE MAJORITY OF HIS LIFE, HAVING OVER 500 HOURS OF EXPERIENCE OPERATING. HE HAS PREVIOUSLY RECEIVED TWO WARNINGS FOR BOATING VIOLATIONS FROM INDIANA CONSERVATION OFFICERS ON GEIST RESERVOIR IN THE PAST. IN 2010 HE WAS WARNED FOR FAILURE TO DISPLAY REGISTRATION NUMBERS. IN 2018 HE WAS WARNED FOR TOWING WITHOUT AN OBSERVER ON A PERSONAL WATERCRAFT. 
ON 8/14/2023 AT 1100 HOURS, I FOLLOWED UP WITH WITNESS OVER THE PHONE TO GET AN UPDATE ON INJURED 1’S CONDITION. WITNESS STATED THAT THE CT SCAN AND X-RAYS DONE SHOWED NO BROKEN BONES OR BRAIN INJURY. BOTH V1 OPERATOR AND V2 OPERATOR PROVIDED INSURANCE INFORMATION FOR THEIR BOATS. I ALSO FOLLOWED UP WITH V1 OPERATOR AFTER THE ACCIDENT AND HE TOLD ME HIS DAUGHTER INJURED 2 HAD NO OTHER INJURIES IN ADDITION TO HER BROKEN COLLARBONE. ON 8/22/2023, V2 OPERATOR PROVIDED ME WITH REPAIR ESTIMATES FROM GEIST MARINA FOR HIS BOAT.


BARDID: IN-2023-0033
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-08-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 08:58:00
State: IN
NameOfBodyOfWater: Geist Reservoir
NearestCityTown: Indianapolis
County: Marion
WaterConditions: Unknown
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Unknown
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: People on gunwale, bow, or transom
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
RedactedNarrative:
A rental pontoon at geist reservoir was being operated with 3 females on the bow and outside the gate when one of the adult females fell from the bow and was ran over by the lower unit and propeller of the outboard motor. 

The female was not wearing a pfd, and was removed from the water and transported to the marina where ems treated her for propeller lacerations from the face to the upper left knee, a broken jaw, broken ribs and dislocated left shoulder. Victim was transported to st. Vincents trauma center for surgery. Alcohol was a factor in the incident. All passengers left the scene and no report was filed. Criminal charges are pending.


BARDID: IN-2023-0036
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-08-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:00:00
State: IN
NameOfBodyOfWater: Patoka Lake
NearestCityTown: Birdseye
County: Dubois
WaterConditions: Calm
HazardousWaters: Y
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Prelude:   
I, Indiana Conservation Officer 1, investigated a single vessel boating accident on Patoka Lake that resulted in moderate injury to the passenger.    
   
Involved Persons:   
Operator – Owner/Operator  
Passenger – Passenger/Victim  
   
Details of Investigation/Incident:   
On August 20, 2023 I was dispatched to a call about a PWC accident that occurred at Patoka Lake.  Jasper Memorial Hospital security notified ICO Central Dispatch at 8:57PM about a female patient that was being transported by ambulance to Deaconess Hospital in Evansville after sustaining unknown injuries from a PWC accident on Patoka Lake.  I responded to Deaconess Midtown ER and spoke to a nurse that had treated the patient, who was identified as Passenger.  The nurse said Passenger was in surgery at the time and was not able to speak to me.She advised that Passenger sustained fractured ribs and was undergoing surgery on her stomach as a result of the accident.  No family or witnesses were available to speak to at the hospital.  I then called Passenger's phone and left a voicemail requesting a callback when she was available to talk.    
   
On August 21,2023 Passenger called back, and I conducted a phone interview with her.  Passenger said that she was a passenger on a PWC that was being driven by the owner and operator.  Passenger said at approximately 12:00 PM they were driving in a straight line when a wave caused the PWC to roll and knock her and Operator off.  Passenger said that she did not contact the PWC as she was ejected from the vessel.  She said that another nearby vessel collected the PWC and brought it back to them after the accident.  Passenger and Operator were both wearing PFDs at the time of the accident and Operator was wearing his emergency engine stop lanyard.  Passenger told me that she stayed with friends on a nearby pontoon boat for the duration of the day after the accident.  When they got off the water for the day, Passenger had a friend drive her to the hospital.  Jasper Memorial Hospital then transferred her to Deaconess Midtown Hospital in Evansville.  Passenger explained that she had surgery on her stomach which was perforated as a result of the accident, however she had a gastric bypass surgery 6 to 8 months prior to the accident.  Passenger said she was going to have to stay in the hospital for a couple days to recover from the surgery before she would be released.    
   
On August 23, 2023 I called and spoke to Operator.  Operator said he was driving the PWC in a straight line and then a large wave hit them in the side and caused the PWC to tip ejecting him and Passenger.  Operator didn't think the accident was that serious at the time, and was surprised when Passenger went to the hospital later that day.  No damage was done to the PWC, which was identified as a 2004 Kawasaki Jet-Ski.    
 


BARDID: IN-2023-0037
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-08-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:14:00
State: IN
NameOfBodyOfWater: Cagles Mill Lake
NearestCityTown: Cloverdale
County: Owen
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
RedactedNarrative:
ON AUGUST 25, 2023 AT OR AROUND 02:14 PM, I INDIANA CONSERVATION OFFICER 1 AND LIEUTENANT 2 INDIANA CONSERVATION OFFICER RESPONDED TO A BOATING ACCIDENT ON CAGLES MILL LAKE. THE COMPLAINANT, OPERATOR ADVISED PUTNAM COUNTY DISPATCH THAT HIS SON, INJURED WAS INJURED, AND THEY WERE TRAVELING TO LIEBER BOAT MARINA.   
I TRAVELLED TO LIEBER BOAT MARINA AND MADE CONTACT WITH OPERATOR. HE ADVISED HIS SON WAS SKIING BEHIND HIS 1997 SYLVAN SKI BOAT WHEN HE HIT A LARGE WAKE. HE WAS THROWN FROM HIS SKIS AND WAS UNCONSCIOUS IN THE WATER. HE WAS ABLE TO RETRIEVE HIS SON FROM THE WATER AND CONTACT PUTNAM COUNTY DISPATCH.   
I SPOKE WITH INJURED WHO WAS STILL WEARING A US COAST GUARD APPROVED FLOTATION DEVICE AND ASKED HIM WHAT HAPPENED. HE PROVIDED ME WITH THE SAME STORY OPERATOR ADVISED.  I ASKED HIM WHERE HE WAS IN PAIN, AND HE STATED ONLY IN HIS NECK. PUTNAM COUNTY EMS TRUCK ARRIVED ON SCENE AND EXAMINED HIS INJURIES. DUE TO COMPLAINT OF PAIN IN INJUREDS NECK, THEY PLACED HIM IN A NECK BRACE AND TRANSPORTED HIM TO THE TRUCK BY GURNEY.   
   
        ON AUGUST 30, 2023 AT OR AROUND 02:35 PM, OPERATOR CONTACTED ME AND STATED HIS SON DID NOT HAVE ANY BROKEN BONES IN HIS SPINAL CORD AND ONLY SUFFERED FROM A HERNIATED DISC. HE ADVISED NO SURGERY WAS GOING TO BE NEEDED AND HE APPRECIATED EVERYONE'S RESPONSE WITH HELPING HIS INJURED SON.   
     
I SWEAR OR AFFIRM UNDER THE PENALTIES FOR PERJURY, AS SPECIFIED BY INDIANA CODE 35-44-2-1, THAT THE FOREGOING REPRESENTATIONS ARE TRUE AND ACCURATE TO THE BEST OF MY KNOWLEDGE.   
   
INDIANA CONSERVATION OFFICER 1


BARDID: IN-2023-0038
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-08-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:30:00
State: IN
NameOfBodyOfWater: Cedar Lake
NearestCityTown: Cedar Lake
County: Lake
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
RedactedNarrative:
A GRAY YAMAHA PWC CAME FREE FROM ITS LIFT. THE PWC IS OWNED BY OWNER. OPERATOR SWAM/WADED TO THE DRIFTING PWC. HE BOARDED THE PWC AND DECIDED TO TAKE IT FOR A RIDE. OPERATOR BEGAN TO OPERATE THE PWC IN A CIRCULAR MOTION DOING DONUTS AND OTHER MANOUVERS. OPERATOR LOST CONTROL OF THE PWC AND IT STRUCK A FIXED PIER. THE IMPACT CRACKED THE FRONT SHIELD AND PLASTIC RAIL ON THE PWC. IT ALSO CRACKED SEVEERAL WELDS AND DAMAGED THE PIER. OPERATOR WAS NOT WEARING A PFD WHILE OPERATING THE PWC. DRUGS AND ALCOHOL ARE NOT A FACTOR IN THIS ACCIDENT. THE CAUSE OF THE ACCIDENT IS DETERMINED TO BE RECKLESS OPERATION AND EXCESSIVE SPEED.


BARDID: IN-2023-0040
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2023-09-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:22:00
State: IN
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake James
NearestCityTown: Angola
County: Steuben
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
AccidentCause3: Restricted vision
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On saturday september 2nd 2023, i, indiana conservation officer, was on boat patrol on lake james with indiana conservation officer.  We were both dressed in class b uniform and patrolling in a marked patrol boat.  At approximately 8:25 pm, we received a call from steuben county dispatch reporting that they had just taken a 911 call reporting a boat accident that occurred near lane 585 lake james.  Initially, it was reported that there were injuries when a boat struck a kayaker. We began toward the area from where we were patrolling on the lower basin of lake james.  Soon, steuben county advised us that the victim was out of the water and this was a property damage accident.    
   
At approximately 8:30 pm, officer and i arrived on the scene.  When we first pulled up, we noticed a large group of people standing on the shoreline.  We asked them where the victim was and if they knew where the boat operator was.  We were told that the victim was on shore further to the north of our location and was ok.  We were told that a large white boat had hit them, but they didn't know where the boat was at that time.  I noticed a man waving to us who was standing on a dock.  I operated our patrol boat over closer to his location where i pulled up to an open dock and tied the boat off while officer went to check on the female who had been reportedly struck.  Immediately i saw a blue paddleboard laying on the dock next to the man.  The paddleboard was missing approximately 1/3 of what should have been there. The other 1/3 was still hanging on by a very small section of plastic.  It appeared that a boat propeller had run across the board splitting the two sections.  I looked at the boat that was in the water and did not see any damage to bow / keel area from striking the paddleboard.     
   
I asked the man what had happened.  He stated, he was “hauling ass” trying to get back to his boat lift before dark when he struck a girl on a paddleboard.  He stated that he heard a loud noise and he thought he had struck a goose with his boat.  Soon he realized that had struck a juvenile female on a paddleboard and the sound he had heard was a scream.  He stated that as soon as he realized what had happened, he stopped his boat and he and the passengers in his boat assisted the juvenile into his boat to get her back to shore.  

The man stated that inside his boat at the time of the incident, he had his two children and his girlfriend.  He stated that the juvenile who was struck was shaken up, but he thought she was fine.  The man stated that he could not see the juvenile standing on the paddleboard because his view was obstructed by a large “lilly pad” (foam swim raft) that he had strapped to the bow of his boat.  

He also stated that the juvenile was wearing a black pfd and it was getting dark which contributed to his inability to see her.  State law does not require those paddling on public waters to display any sort of lights in general however they must have a light with them that can be illuminated in time to prevent a collision with a power-driven vessel.  I later learned that the juvenile did not have any lights with her to illuminate prior to the collision.    
   
I asked the man if he had his driver's license with him.  He stated it was in the boat.  I walked with him toward the boat to retrieve it from him.  When he got into the boat, he handed me his drivers license.  I then asked operator1 for the boat registration.  He handed me the boat keys.  I informed him that i didn't ask for the keys but needed the registration for the boat instead.  He then took the keys from me and opened a floating keychain that the keys were attached to and pulled out a rolled up registration from inside.  Operator1 grabbed a bottle of water and stepped out of his boat back onto the dock and began to use an automatic lift to raise his boat out of the water. Operator1 started to drink the bottle of water.  
   
At about this time, two steuben county sherriff's department deputies had arrived on scene and were with us at the dock near his boat lift.  While i was talking to operator1 about what had happened, it was obvious to me that he had consumed alcoholic beverages.  I noticed several clues of probable impairment.  Operator1 had a strong odor of alcohol coming from his breath as he talked to me.  His words were slurred and his speech seemed slow as if he was concentrating on formulating words properly.  Operator1 had bloodshot / watery eyes.  I asked him if he had anything to drink and he stated that wasn't going to lie, he had a few.  I asked him if he had anything to drink between the time the accident occurred and when we arrived on scene and he stated he had not.  He stated the last drink he had was approximately 30 minutes before the accident while he was at the sandbar on lake james. While i was standing next to his boat while he retrieved his license and registration, i had also noticed open alcohol containers inside the boat (truly hard seltzer).    
   
I asked operator1 to put down the bottle of water he was drinking and step away from the boat lift as i wanted to take a look at his eyes.  He agreed and i began to administer the horizontal gaze nystagmus test standing on a wider section of dock a few feet away from where we had been standing next to his lift.  Before the test began, i asked the standard pre-test questions.  I asked if he was under the care of a doctor or dentist and was told no.  Operator1 stated that he had an immune deficiency, however he was not taking any medications other than claritin (non prescription) for seasonal allergies.  Operator1 was not wearing glasses or contacts.  I began by explaining that i wanted him to follow the tip of my finger with his eyes only.  I placed my finger approximately 12-15 inches from the tip of his nose just above eye level and checked for resting nystagmus and equal tracking.  I did not note any presence of resting nystagmus and both eyes tracked equally as i made two passes.  I next made two passes and noted a lack of smooth pursuit in both eyes.  Next, i made two passes checking for distinct and sustained nystagmus at maximum deviation and noted a presence in both eyes.  Next, i made two passes checking for the onset of nystagmus prior to forty five degrees and noted it in both eyes.  I finished the test by checking for vertical nystagmus however did not note it in either of the two passes i made.  Operator1 failed the test by exhibiting a total of 6 clues.    
   
I asked operator1 if he would mind taking a portable breath test.  He agreed and officer who had just arrived back at our location from speaking with the juvenile and her guardian at the time administered a pbt to operator1.  The result was a reading of .092 bac.  
   
With the physical signs of impairment operator1 was exhibiting, his admission to drinking and the failure of the horizontal gaze nystagmus test / pbt, i read operator1 the implied consent warning from my pocket notebook.  Initially operator1 seemed unsure of what was meant by “chemical test”.  I explained that he would be transported to the steuben county jail for a certified breath test.  Operator1 stated that he would consent to a certified breath test.  Operator1 asked us, “please don't handcuff me in front of my kids”.  We advised him that since he was being cooperative with us, we would not need to handcuff him provided he remained cooperative.  Operator1 walked off the dock up toward a deputies car without issue.  
   
All officers on scene discussed the logistics next as i was the only certified breath test operator there.  We decided that one of the steuben deputies would transport operator1 to the jail and i would ride with them while officer took our patrol boat back to the lift near pokagon state park.   
   
Steuben county deputies conducted a pat down search before allowing operator1 to sit in the front


BARDID: IN-2023-0041
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-09-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:00:00
State: IN
NameOfBodyOfWater: Patoka Reservoir
NearestCityTown: Dubois
County: Dubois
WaterConditions: Rough
HazardousWaters: Y
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
RedactedNarrative:
Prelude:  
 
A jet ski took on water and capsized near the overlook at patoka lake.  I was able to tow the vessel to a boat ramp where it was loaded on a trailer.  A report was taken.  
   
Details of investigation:  
 
On sunday september 4th 2023 i received a call from ico dispatch advising there was a capsized jet ski at patoka lake.  The occupants had got to safety but were stranded and needed help getting the jet ski to a boat ramp.  The call was received at dispatch at 4:00 pm. 
 
I called operator1 and he advised they were near the overlook at patoka lake when the jet ski started to sink and eventually capsized.  Another boater assisted them in getting to a dock where the jet ski was tied off but still upside down in the water.   
 
When i arrived at the overlook i saw a red and white jet ski on the north east side of the dock.  It was sitting high enough out of the water i could read an indiana registration number.  This jet ski registration showed operator1 as the owner and had a valid registration expiring in 2024.   
 
Operator1 explained his truck and trailer were parked at the jackson boat ramp and he did not know how to get there.  I provided a courtesy ride to the jackson ramp and he followed me to a private ramp used by the army core.   
 
I launched my jon boat and then operator1 backed his trailer into the water.  I was able to hook a rope to the jet ski and tow it to the ramp.  At the ramp operator1 turned the jet ski over and was able to put it on the trailer.   
 
Once removed from the water i looked the jet ski over for damage.  The hull was intact and i did not see any cracks or holes.  The plugs were in the jet ski preventing water from entering the vessel.  There did appear to be a dried epoxy around the intake housing.  Operator1 advised he had not had any work done on the jet ski since he had it and did not know if work had been done prior to his ownership.   
 
The passenger on the jet ski later emailed me and advised the insurance for the jet ski was through progressive.    
 
The registration showed the jet ski to be a 2003 honda marine aquatrax f-12x turbo that was ten feet in length and had a hull identification number. 


BARDID: IN-2023-0042
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-09-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:53:00
State: IN
NameOfBodyOfWater: Monroe Reservoir
NearestCityTown: Bloomington
County: Monroe
WaterConditions: Rough
HazardousWaters: Y
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On september 3, 2023, i, indiana conservation officer, along with conservation officer responded to a report of a boat accident on lake monroe near the fuel docks at four winds marina. Officer and i responded from the law enforcement docks on a department patrol boat. 

Upon arrival i spoke with operator2 who was later identified as operator #2 for this crash report. Operator2 was identified through her drivers license and produced a boater safety assessment course card, that four winds offered. 

Operator2 stated that they were traveling in from boating in a cove just east of the marina. Operator2 stated that she was nearing the idle zone when she noticed a jet ski traveling along the idle zone moving in her direction. Operator2 advised she didn't think that the jet was going to stop and was going to hit them. Operator2 stated that she brought her boat to a stop, and the jet ski collided with her boat on the front left(port side). 

Operator2 stated that she done what she could do to avoid the collision and would have rather had the jet ski hit the boat in the front corner like it did instead of in the middle of the boat where it could have had a greater risk to cause harm to her family that was on the boat. 

Operator2 stated that she had consumed zero alcohol and offered to take a portable breath test. Operator2 showed no signs of impairment so that wasn't necessary. I also spoke to the husband to operator2, who was also on the boat. 

V2 occupant1 basically gave the same story as to what happened. V2 occupant1 stated that he made operator2 aware of the jet ski that was traveling in there direction, but operator2 had already seen the jet ski and was already slowing down to come to a stop. 

Both operator2 and v2 occupant1 stated that the male passenger that was on the jet ski jumped or was thrown off and they got him out of the water and onto their boat. They advised the male was not injured. Operator2 also wanted it noted that the jet ski operators mother arrived on scene and was coaching her on what to say. It should be noted that operator2 and v2 occupant1 had there 2 juvenile children on board with them. Operator2 also stated that she had approximately 24 hours of experience in operating a boat as well as the above mentioned boater safety class. 

I then spoke with operator1 who will be listed as operator #1 for this crash report. Operator1 advised she was leaving the no wake zone from the gas station. She advised that she was traveling about 15 miles per hour and observed the pontoon boat in front of her. 

Operator1 stated that the pontoon boat stopped, and she turned to avoid hitting the pontoon, but a wave from another boat shoved her into the pontoon. She stated that her jet ski has reverse and she tried to avoid colliding with the pontoon but wasn't able to due to the wave. 

Operator1 stated that she had a passenger on her jet ski who was no longer on scene. She called him and i spoke briefly to him. 

I asked v1 occupant to tell me what happened. V1 occupant stated that they were just cruising, riding on the back and water was splashing in his face, and next thing he knew there was a boat in front of us. V1 occupant stated that he jumped off the jet ski before it struck the pontoon. 

V1 occupant advised he boarded the pontoon after the two boats collided. V1 occupant stated that he was not injured in the incident. V1 occupant estimated that operator1 was traveling about 15 miles per hour and was approximately 50 yards away from the idle zone. Operator1 stated that she believes has had about 50 hours of experience in operating a boat but had no formal training class. Operator1 showed no sign of impairment. 

Operator2s boat that she was operating was a rental boat from paradise rental boats. It was bearing indiana registration which returned on a 2021 20 foot g three boats. The boat was insured through peel and holland marine.

Operator1s boat she was operating was bearing indiana registration which returned on a 2023 yamaha jet ski. Operator1s mother provided current insurance information on the jet ski. State farm was the carrier, policy number.

Upon the statements made from the direction the boats were traveling, the pontoon boat had the right of way and the jet failed to give right of way to the pontoon, which resulted in the jet ski colliding with the pontoon.


BARDID: IN-2023-0043
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-10-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:57:00
State: IN
NameOfBodyOfWater: Cedar Lake
NearestCityTown: Cedar Lake
County: Lake
WaterConditions: Unknown
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Unknown
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentEvent3: Skier mishap
RedactedNarrative:
Prelude:       
A PWC accident with injury occurred on Cedar Lake.  The victim was taken to the hospital with a minor cut to her forehead.        
     
    
Details of the Investigation/Incident:         
On October 1, 2023 several individuals on PWCs were out riding together on Cedar Lake.  One of the operators struck a tube with 2 persons on it being pulled by another PWC in the group.         
        
One female was struck in the head by the PWC.  The other female on the tube was not injured.   All persons were under 18 years of age.  Alcohol was not a factor in the incident.         
        
The injured female tuber was taken to St. Anthony's by her mother from the scene with a small cut to her forehead.         
       
Attachments:      
Photographs    
      
Current Disposition:        
The case is currently under investigation at this time.


BARDID: IN-2023-0044
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-10-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:30:00
State: IN
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Shafer
NearestCityTown: Monticello
County: White
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
ON OCTOBER 1ST, 2023, I, INDIANA CONSERVATION OFFICER, WAS WORKING OUT OF A FULLY MARKED COMMISSION, WEARING MY DEPARTMENT ISSUED CLASS B UNIFORM, NEAR THE TIPPECANOE RIVER.  AT OR ABOUT 1:30 P.M., I WAS CONTACTED BY THE WHITE COUNTY COMMUNICATIONS CENTER WITH A REQUEST THAT I RESPOND TO A BOAT CRASH ON LAKE SHAFER.  I WAS THEN DISPATCHED TO NORTH SULLIVAN COURT IN MONTICELLO.

AT OR ABOUT 1:50 P.M. I ARRIVED ON SCENE, WHERE I WAS MET BY WITNESS, WHO I IDENTIFIED BY WAY OF A STATE ISSUED DRIVER'S LICENSE.  WITNESS INFORMED ME THAT HE HAD WITNESSED A FEMALE CRASH HER BOAT INTO HIS NEIGHBOR'S NEW PONTOON, WHICH WAS ON THE LIFT.  WITNESS THEN STATED THAT HE HAD TOLD THE FEMALE TO STAY THERE WHILE HE REPORTED THE CRASH, AND THAT SHE WAS STILL ON THE WATER BEHIND HIS RESIDENCE.

BEHIND THE RESIDENCE, I FOUND V1 OPERATOR, WHO I IDENTIFIED BY WAY OF A STATE ISSUED DRIVER'S LICENSE, TO BE THE V1 OPERATOR OF A WHITE BENNINGTON PONTOON BOAT.  THE WHITE BENNINGTON DISPLAYED INDIANA REGISTRATION.  V1 OPERATOR INFORMED ME THAT SHE AND HER THREE (3) PASSENGERS WERE OUT FOR A RIDE THAT AFTERNOON AND HAD BEEN TRAVELLING DOWN RIVER, PAST OUR CURRENT LOCATION.  SHE STATED THAT ONCE SHE GOT PAST THE RESIDENCE, SHE DECIDED TO TURN OUT TOWARDS THE BANK TO HEAD BACK UPRIVER.  IT WAS AT THIS TIME THAT SHE REALIZED SHE HAD NOT TURNED SHARP ENOUGH AND CRASHED INTO THE PIER BEFORE HITTING THE MOTOR OF THE BOAT ON THE LIFT CONNECTED TO IT.  THIS WAS CONSISTENT WITH THE INFORMATION PROVIDED TO ME BY WITNESS.

AS I EVALUATED THE DAMAGE DONE TO V1 OPERATOR'S BOAT, I NOTICED THAT THE FRONT END HAD MINOR DAMAGES, BUT THAT THE "EYE" ON THE PORT SIDE "TOON" HAD BEEN PUSHED BACK AND BROKE THE WELD ON FRONT OF IT.  I THEN PHOTOGRAPHED THE DAMAGE DONE TO THE DOCK, AS WELL AS THE BOAT ON THE LIFT.  I WAS ABLE TO DETERMINE THAT THE BOAT ON THE LIFT, WHICH WAS BEARING INDIANA REGISTRATION, BELONGED TO V2 OWNER.  V2 OWNER WAS ALSO THE OWNER OF THE RESIDENCE WHERE THE BOAT WAS LOCATED.

THE DAMAGE TO V2 OWNER'S TRITOON APPEARED TO BE PRIMARILY ON THE LOWER UNIT AND PROP.  THERE WAS ALSO DAMAGE ON THE MIDDLE "TOON" OF THE BOAT.  AS I WALKED AROUND THE BOAT IT APPEARED TO HAVE BEEN STRUCK HARD ENOUGH THAT THE BOAT ITSELF WAS LIFTED, AND SHIFTED ON THE LIFT, AS THE BOAT WAS CROOKED UNDERNEATH THE ROOF OF THE LIFT.  I WAS ABLE TO CONTACT V2 OWNER VIA CELL PHONE AND NOTIFY HIM OF THE DAMAGE AND OBTAIN HIS INSURANCE INFORMATION.  HE WAS ALSO MADE AWARE THAT HE WAS FREE TO TAKE THE BOAT WHEREVER HE NEEDED TO FOR AN ESTIMATE.

NOTE:  IT SHOULD BE DOCUMENTED THAT A SAFETY CHECK OF V1 OPERATOR'S BOAT WAS DONE, AND IT WAS EQUIPPED WITH ALL OF THE REQUIRED PERSONAL FLOTATION DEVICES.  I ALSO WAS PERMITTED TO LOOK INTO A CLOSED COOLER THAT WAS ABOARD THE BOAT.  AT NO TIME DID I DETECT THE ODOR OF ALCOHOL OR NOTICE ANYTHING THAT WOULD LEAD ME TO BELIEVE THAT V1 OPERATOR WAS IMPAIRED IN ANY WAY.

AT THIS TIME, I AM NOT REQUESTING ANY CHARGES BE FILED AGAINST V1 OPERATOR.  I BELIEVE THE DAMAGE DONE TO V2 OWNER'S BOAT AND PIER TO BE IN EXCESS OF $750.  AS A RESULT, A REPORT HAS BEEN GENERATED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES.


BARDID: IN-2023-1000
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-08-21 00:00:00
State: IN
NameOfBodyOfWater: Clearwater Lake
NearestCityTown: Indianapolis
County: Marion
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
RedactedNarrative:
According to a news media report, one person died after being recovered from the water apart from his vessel.  The individual was recovered by a Good Samaritan.  It is assumed he fell overboard, but the cause is unknown.


BARDID: KS-2023-0001
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2023-01-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 05:10:00
State: KS
NameOfBodyOfWater: Cheney Reservoir
NearestCityTown: Cheney
County: Reno
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Improper loading
AccidentCause2: Overloading
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
On 1/28/23, at Cheney Reservoir, Operator and Owner were heading to a duck hunting spot from Boat Ramp. Operator was operating the vessel while Owner and their black lab were riding in the vessel. While in route to a spot, dog ran to the bow of the boat causing it to take on water. Operator stated he tried to put it in reverse but there was too much water already in the vessel. The vessel then capsized, dumping all occupants into the water. At the time of the incident, the vessel was loaded down with two adult men, a large labrador retriever, at least five dozen various goose and duck decoys, three shotguns, two ammo cans filled with shotgun shells, two backpacks filled with various gear and shotgun shells, two deep cell batteries, a trolling motor, a homemade duck blind (screwed onto the vessel), and various tools. There were multiple fire extinguisher and PFD's on the vessel as well. Both Operator and Owner were wearing neoprene waders at the time. Owner was able to put on a PFD before the boat capsized.
Owner stated he tried throwing a PFD to Operator but Operator did not see it and was unable to put a PFD on before the vessel capsized. Both Operator and Owner were able to grab onto the capsized vessel and float with it. They were also able to get dog to stand on the bottom of the vessel since it was not submerged. Operator, Owner and dog floated with the vessel for approximately one hour before a rescue vessel arrived. All occupants were brought to shore safely and treated. No injuries occured besides body temperatures being low. Both Operator and Owner refused to be transported to a hospital and were released after warming up. The rescue crew was able to retrieve some property. The Cheney Public Lands Manager and myself was able to recover the capsized vessel and some property.


BARDID: KS-2023-0002
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-04-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 08:00:00
State: KS
NameOfBodyOfWater: Clinton Reservoir
NearestCityTown: Lawrence
County: Douglas
WaterConditions: Calm
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On April 29th, 2023, at approximately 09:29 hrs, Game Warden1 got a call about a capsized vessel near the South side of the dam on Clinton reservoir. Game Warden1 was informed that all occupants had made it safely to shore. Game Warden1 responded to the scene and arrived at approximately 11:00 hrs. Game Warden1 talked to wardens who were already on scene and who were attempting to tow the capsized vessel back to the boat ramp. 

Game Warden2 directed Game Warden1 to where the occupants of the vessel were and Game Warden1 went and talked to them. Warden1 talked to them and found out that they had put their boat on at boat ramp one that morning and motored on across the lake to the South side of the dam where there were some trees. 

Subject1 had thrown out a fishing pole and had quickly caught a catfish. As the men were trying to put the fish in the livewell they noticed water in the bilge and at their feet. Subject1 tried to start the motor and get up on plane. The motor started but died before the boat could get up on plane. The men then tried to use the trolling motor to head back towards the boat ramp, and also contacted 911. Another civilian boat eventually showed up and tried to tow the victim boat back towards the boat ramp. The boat was continuing to take on water and eventually took on too much water and capsized. The two men ended up in the water, both wearing pfds. The civillian boat loaded up the two men and brough them back to the boat ramp. Subject1 estimated the boat starting taking on water at 8:00 hrs. Wardens were able to tow the capsized vessel back to the boat ramp. The vessel was upside down in the water. Game Warden1 and the two occupants were able to flip the boat back over and load it onto the trailer. The boat suffered damage to the motor cover and mount from dragging on the boat ramp in trying to flip the boat. The trolling motor also broke its mount. The plug was missing from the boat. Nothing further to report at this time.


BARDID: KS-2023-0003
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-05-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:00:00
State: KS
NameOfBodyOfWater: Kirwin Reservoir
NearestCityTown: Kirwin
County: Phillips
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentCause3: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On May 2, 2023 at approximately 1100 hours I, Game Warden for KDWP, was notified of an injury boat accident that had occured at Kirwin Resivoir near Bluegill Point. USFWS officer 2 was already responding to the area. I later responded to the area, arriving at approximately 1400 hours. I made contact with Officer 2 and observed a Lund boat that appeared to have been run aground. The owner of the vessel (Operator) arrived and admitted to being the operator. Operator told me that they were coming from the dam area of the lake back to the boat ramp at about 2200 hours on May 1st and he was using his Lowrance depthfinder for navigation. Operator also admitted that he was looking down on the floor for a spotlight while operating the boat at approximately 30 MPH when he made contact with the shoreline. Operator hit his face on what he believes to be the steering wheel causing a small laceration and visible bruising on his face. There were 6 occupants in the vessell. Operator, Passenger 2, Passenger 1, Passenger 3, Injured and Passenger 4. Injured was also injured in the collision and was complaining of pain in his wrist and hand. No other occupants of the vessel reported injuries. In the course of my investigation it was determined that all PFD's other than the one worn by Passenger 2 were stowed in the front compartments of the vessel. Operator was written NTA's for Failure to Report a Boat accident, PFD's not accessible, No Boat Registration Numbers displayed, No Servicable Fire eqtinguiser, Prohibited/Negligent Operation and Piloting Rules Violation. See Attatched report for detailed information.


BARDID: KS-2023-0004
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-05-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:00:00
State: KS
NameOfBodyOfWater: Glen Elder Reservoir
NearestCityTown: Cawker City
County: Mitchell
WaterConditions: Very rough
HazardousWaters: Y
Wind: Storm
Visibility: Poor
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent3: Person departed vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On 05/09/2023 at approxmiately 1200hrs Operator was operating his 2021 20' Lund Impact near the Cosway bridge on Glen Elder Reservoir in Mitchell County, Kansas. There was a severe thunderstorm approaching from the Northwest and Operator and his passenger decided to ride out the storm under the Cosway bridge. As the storm drew closer Operator realized he could not hold the boat in position so he attempted to drive to the Marina on the east end of Glen Elder Reservoir. When Operator turned the bow of the vessel around, the wind blew the vessel onto a shallow mud flat southeast of the Cosway bridge. Once the boat became stuck on the mud Operator and passenger voluntarily exited the vessel and tried to free the vessel as the waves quickly swamped the vessel. Operator and passenger then stowed the jackets and what equipment they could that was floating around the vessel. Operator and passenger then started to walk towards the Cosway bridge where they were assisted by the Mitchell County Sheriffs office and Mitchell County EMT's. Both Operator and passenger refused transport to MItchell County Hospital. Game Warden 1 arrived as the EMT were starting their evaluation of both men. Game Warden 1 interviewed both Operator and passenger in the ambulance after their examitation.


BARDID: KS-2023-0005
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2023-05-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:00:00
State: KS
NameOfBodyOfWater: Milford Reservoir
NearestCityTown: Junction City
County: Geary
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Failure to vent
AccidentCause2: Ignition of spilled fuel or vapor
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
RedactedNarrative:
On Saturday, May 20, 2023 at approximately 8:00pm, operator prepared his boat to launch at the Yacht Club boat ramp near the Walnut Grove Campground at Milford State Park. The boat was a 16' 1975 Glastron V-172 with a fiberglass hull and I/O engine bearing Oklahoma registration numbers. The boat had been registered in Kansas and assigned the numbers, but the new numbers had not yet been affixed to the hull. 

Operator started the boat's engine on land and let it run for approximately one minute. The blower was not used. He then launched the boat and started the engine. The engine fired and died once. When he attempted to start the engine again, it backfired and there was an explosion. Operator and his single occupant immediately jumped overboard and swam to shore. 

Operator stated there were PFDs and a fire extinguisher on board, but not enough time to use them. The boat and everything on board, including approximately $3000 worth of fishing equipment, was completely destroyed by the fire. The vessel was removed from the water and towed to Gross Wrecker Services, 912 E. 7th St, Junction City, KS 66441. I examined and photographed the remains of the boat at the salvage yard. Based on my training and experience, I believe accumulated fumes under the cowling were ignited, causing an explosion in the engine compartment.


BARDID: KS-2023-0006
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-05-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:49:00
State: KS
NameOfBodyOfWater: Winfield City Lake
NearestCityTown: Winfield
County: Cowley
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentCause3: Improper lookout
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
RedactedNarrative:
VESSEL 1 WAS TRAVELING NORTH AT A SLOW SPEED INTO  COVE AREA.  VESSEL 2 WAS TRAVELING WEST BOUND AT A HIGHER RATE OF SPEED.  VESSEL 1 ADVISED THEY SAW THE BOAT COMING STARTED WAVING AT IT BUT IT DIDN'T SLOW OR CHANGE DIRECTION.  VESSEL 1 OPERATOR ADVISED SHE TURNED BOAT BUT BOAT WAS UNABLE TO TURN FAST ENOUGH.  VESSEL 2 DID NOT SEE VESSEL 1 UNTIL LAST SECOND AND DID NOT CHANGE SPEED OR DIRECTION TO TRY TO PREVENT ACCIDENT.  3 JUVENILES WERE EJECTED FROM VESSEL 2 AND WERE UNDER 12 YRS OLD NOT WEARING PFD'S.  A 4th individual, V2 Passenger 1 (daughter of VESSEL 2 operator) was stated to have been ejected by Operator of VESSEL 2 and was uninjured and wearing a PFD.  It was found that V2 Passenger 1 was the only person on VESSEL 2 that was wearing a PFD. Operator of VESSEL 2, V2 Operator, was arrested for suspicion of Boating Under Influence of Alcohol.  V2 Operator gave a Breath Alcohol Test at the Jail and his BAC registered 0.140 g/210L BrAC on the Intoxilyzor 9000 at 19:00 hrs.


BARDID: KS-2023-0007
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-06-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:28:00
State: KS
NameOfBodyOfWater: Kanopolis
NearestCityTown: Marquette
County: Ellsworth
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Overloading
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
RedactedNarrative:
On June 10th,  2023 at approximately 18:29 Ellsworth County Sheriff's Office received a phone call of a missing kayaker at Kanopolis Lake. Game Warden and Game Warden responded to the incident. We arrived on scene at 19:15 and began our search for the victim. At 20:21 the missing person was recovered by the Mcpherson County dive team. The individual had a PFD on board his Pelican Kayak that was strapped on the back. The kayak overturned and the victim  had a couple dogs out in the water with him. The victim attempted to help his dogs back to shore when they took him under water. Bystanders were unable to locate the individual in the water when they tried,  He never resurfaced after the initial time going under. 


BARDID: KS-2023-0008
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-06-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:05:00
State: KS
NameOfBodyOfWater: Wilson Reservoir
NearestCityTown: Sylvan Grove
County: Russell
WaterConditions: Calm
CongestedWaters: Y
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Congested waters
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
RedactedNarrative:
On 6/10/2023 at 15:05 hours Operator was operating a rented pontoon boat on Wilson Lake. Operator was straight south of the Lucas Park point traveling in a southwest direction. Operator turned the tube he was pulling into a wake that was caused by another vessel. Operator told me he was driving less than 20 mph at that point. When the tube hit the other vessel's wake it caused the victim who was riding on the tube to hit her head against the water. The victim told the people on the rented pontoon boat that she wasn't feeling well after the accident so they returned her to shore. When they arrived at the shore the victim Injured became unresponsive. Injured was taken to the Russell County Hospital for treatment. I talked with them the following day and she was diagnosed with a severe concussion and whip lash.


BARDID: KS-2023-0009
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-06-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:30:00
State: KS
NameOfBodyOfWater: Winfield City Lake
NearestCityTown: Winfield
County: Cowley
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
RedactedNarrative:
On 6/17/23 GW 1 recieved an OGT text about a boating accident with a broken femur at Winfield City Lake at 1245 hours.  GW 1 responded to the area and arrived at 1345 hours and met with a Winfield PD officer who was with the driver of the boat.  The operator identified himself as Operator. GW 1 asked Operator if he had consumed any alcohol this day and Operator stated he hadn't and no signs of impairment or odor of alcohol were observed. GW 1 asked Operator what had occurred and Operator stated his friend, Injured, was in the water attempting to wakeboard.  Operator stated they were in the center of the lake and pointed West.  Operator stated Injured was in the water and ready to go and Operator accelerated the boat to pull Injured from the water to wakeboard.  Operator stated as he accelerated, he observed Injured get about half his body above the water and then he just fell forward like nothing had happened.  Operator then turned the boat around to give Injured another try and when he approached Injured, Injured stated he thought he just broke his femur and to call 911.  Operator then assisted Injured to shore and delivered him to EMS who had responded.  GW 1 then performed a vessel check finding all the necessary equipment and collected the information of everyone on board and the boat information.  GW 1 then released Operator and the vessel and cleared at 1445 hours. On 6/19/23 at 1045 hours, GW 1 contacted Injured by phone and spoke with him.  Injured stated he suffered a butterfly fracture of his femur in 3 places.  Injured stated it was his right leg.  GW 1 asked Injured if he had struck the bottom or an object and Injured stated he hadn't and that it was just a water resistance injury.  GW 1 asked Injured what had occurred and Injured stated the same series of events as Operator had.


BARDID: KS-2023-0010
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-05-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:30:00
State: KS
NameOfBodyOfWater: Cheney
NearestCityTown: Cheney
County: Reno
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Sharp turn
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Operator, owner of the boat, was operating a boat while Passenger (victim) was standing at the back of the boat pulling on a ski rope to move a skier into a wake. Operator slowed down and turned the boat causing Passenger to fall forward. Passenger hit her head on metal handle located on the interior side of the boat. Passenger had a small cut and a contusion on top of her head. All injuries were minor. Operator transported Passenger to St. Teresa hospital in Wichita, KS where she was treated and released. Lt. GW 1 interviewed Passenger and Operator at the hospital. Passenger advised all she did was lose her footing and fell.


BARDID: KS-2023-0011
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-06-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:30:00
State: KS
NameOfBodyOfWater: Wilson Reservoir
NearestCityTown: Dorrance
County: Russell
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
AccidentCause2: Hull failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
AccidentEvent1: Other
OtherAccidentEvent: Vessel destruction
RedactedNarrative:
On 06/24/2023 at approximately 1950 hours I, Game Warden for KDWP, was notified of a boat that the motor had detatched from the transom. This accident occured approximately 1 mile east of Marshall cove while traveling at approximately 20 mph westward. The boat was towed in by a good samaritain. The vessel displayed registration numbers and was owned and operated by Operator. I made contact with Operator on 6/25/23 at his residence where I inspected the vessel. The transom of the vessel had failed causing the motor to not be sucrure to the vessel. When the motor detatched from the transom it struck the left toon creating a large dent and puncturing the toon. The motor remained attatched to the vessel by the steering/throttle and fuel line. The was also notable damage to the lower unit and propeller if the mercury 115 motor. I conducted a vesel insepection and found t hat everything was in compliance besides a fire extingguisher. Nothing further at this time....


BARDID: KS-2023-0012
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-06-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:00:00
State: KS
NameOfBodyOfWater: Linn Valley Lake
NearestCityTown: Linn Valley
County: Linn
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was traveling north, across the recreational PWC area and struck vessel 2, center portside, who was traveling west in the recreational PWC area. Driver of Vessel 2 was struck in the left leg of by Vessel 1 and was then ejected from the PWC. Minor scratches on Vessel 1. Vessel 2 sustained more damage, with the seat being torn off the vessel and various pieces of plastic being busted off or damaged.

On June 17th, 2023, at 1200 hours, Officer was dispatched to Linn Valley Lakes for an injury boat accident. Linn Valley Lakes is a private lake community within Linn County Kansas. When Officer arrived, both individuals had been pulled from the water and both vessels were taken back to their docks. Vessel 2, driven by V2 Operator, was traveling north, across the recreational PWC area and struck vessel 1, driven by V1 Operator, center portside, who was traveling west in the recreational PWC area. Driver of Vessel 2 was struck in the left leg of by Vessel 1 and was then ejected from the PWC. Minor scratches on Vessel 1. Vessel 2 sustained more damage, with the seat being torn off the vessel and various pieces of plastic being busted off or damaged. V1 Operator only received minor injuires and was treated and released. V2 Operator suffered a broken leg and was transported to the hospital via medical helicopter.


BARDID: KS-2023-0013
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-06-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:30:00
State: KS
NameOfBodyOfWater: Cheney Reservoir
NearestCityTown: Cheney
County: Reno
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Poor
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Restricted vision
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person departed vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On the night of June 24, 2023 at approximately 2230 hours, vessel 2 and vessel 3 were tied up together drifting in the middle of Cheney Reservoir in between sail boat cove and "party cove."   

There were 3 occupants on vessel 2 and 3 occupants on vessel 3.  There were also 7 people swimming around the two vessels.  Vessel 1 was cruising on plane towards the two drifting vessels.  

Vessel 1 was about to strike vessel 2 on the middle of the starboard side of the vessel when the operator of vessel 1 noticed the other vessels and turned to the left.  

Vessel 1 struck the starboard side of vessel 2 towards the stern of the vessel and at an angle.  Vessel 1 went over the rear, starboard corner of vessel 2 and struck the outboard motor on vessel 2, almost tearing the motor off. 

 A female from vessel 1 and a female from vessel 2 were ejected when the collision occurred.  The other two occupants of vessel 2 jumped off the vessel in to the water just as the impact occurred.  A female occupant on Vessel 1 was asleep in the cabin of the boat and had a laceration on her chin from the collision that required stitches.  

A male subject on vessel 3 was thrown to the floor of the vessel and later sought medical attention for a torn ligament in his ankle.  Vessel 1 had fiberglass damage to the hull of the vessel and possible motor issues. Vessel 2 had damage to the railing, seating, platform, and outboard motor on the rear starboard corner of the vessel.  All vessels made it back to the ramp near O'brien's Marina.  

Cheney State Park Rangers were waiting on the vessels when they arrived.  Ranger arrested the operator of Vessel 1 for Boating Under the Influence.  Operator1 was transported to Reno County jail.  Witnesses from vessels 2 and 3 state that both vessels 2 and 3 had their anchor/360 lights and navigation lights on their vessels.  

The operator of vessel 1 states that vessels 2 and 3 did not have any lights on and he did not see them until right before the collision.  Operator of vessel 1 stated that he thought he was going 30-40 mph when the collision occurred.


BARDID: KS-2023-0014
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:19:00
State: KS
NameOfBodyOfWater: Milford Reservoir
NearestCityTown: Junction City
County: Geary
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: Y
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Poor
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Weather
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Sinking
RedactedNarrative:
On July 4, 2023 at approximately 2219 hours, the Geary County Sheriff's Office received a 911 call from an individual stating that they were with two other people on Milford Reservoir and the boat they were on was taking on water, due to the severe storm that was passing through the area, and that they did not have life jackets. Game Wardens 1 and 2 with the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks responded to the area and launched their patrol vessel in attempt to locate the occupants of the of the sinking vessel. Geary County Dispatch was able to provide an approximate location to first responders by pinging the individual's phone and the victims activated their phone lights to aid in locating them. The victims were able to be located shortly after launching the patrol boat, with all three victims holding onto the bow. The vessel's port side gunwhale was the only portion of the vessel above the waterline and was listing to the starboard side. The Game Wardens approached the vessel from the downwind side and Game Warden 1 started to throw life jackets to the three individuals. After all three individuals had life jackets, they were instructed to put the them on and attempt to use their vessel to step onto the patrol boat. As they were attempting to climb onto their vessel, the boat started to roll towards the starboard side and completely capsized. As the vessel was rolling, we yelled at them to get clear of the boat. The victims were then instructed to swim to the patrol boat, where Game Warden 1 was able to pull all three people onboard the patrol vessel. After a quick medical check on the victims was conducted, they were instructed to sit on the boat's deck and were taken to the Milford State Park Marina. After arriving at the marina, all three occupants were examined by Geary County Emergency Medical Services. After being cleared by medical personnel, an interview was conducted on the operator/owner of the vessel. The owner was identified as Operator and the two passengers were Passenger 1 and Passenger 2. Operator stated that they had got on the water at approximately 2100 hours, just prior to the heavy storms arriving in the area. Operator said that once the storms arrived, large waves started to crash over the sides of the boat due to the high winds and one large wave opened the hatch that the life jackets were stowed in and pushed the life jackets into the bow of the vessel, where they could not be retrieved as the vessel started to sink. Operator said that the bilge was on and operational, but could not keep up with the large amount of water coming into the vessel. The navigation lights were observed to be operational at the time of the rescue. Operator stated that he attempted to maneuver the vessel back to the West Plains Campground at a slow speed, but could not prevent the waves from coming over the gunwhales. When asked why they did not don the life jackets when the weather started to turn bad, Operator said they did not think about it. The boat was located on July 5, 2023, approximately two miles to the West, near the Curtis Creek Campground. Operator was able to salvage the vessel on the same day.


BARDID: KS-2023-0015
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:24:00
State: KS
NameOfBodyOfWater: Sugar Valley Lake
NearestCityTown: Mound City
County: Linn
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
RedactedNarrative:
On July 6th, 2023, at 1751 hours, Officer was contacted by the Linn County Sheriff about an injury boat accident at Sugar Valley Lake and asked if Officer could respond. Sugar Valley is a private lake community in Linn County Kansas. Officer arrived at the crash scene at approximately 1825 hours. The accident was reported to the Linn County Dispatch at 1726 hours. Officer spoke to Deputies and witnesses at the crash scene. There were three adults on the dock at the time of the crash who all witnessed the incident. Officer spoke to the remaining two witnesses, Passenger 4 and Passenger 5. There were two victims, both juveniles, identified as Injured 1 and Injured 2. One was transported by ambulance and another by medical helicopter to Kansas City area hospitals. The juveniles were being pulled by a boat operated by Operator and were in a tube when it struck a dock, injuring both. One of the victims ended up in the water and pulled onto the dock and the other in a boat tied up to the dock. Officer photographed the scene. Next, Officer investigated the driver and the boat. Neither were at the crash site when Officer arrived. Officer and Deputy 1, with the Linn County Sheriff’s Department, went and contacted Operator. Operator was communicating coherently with Officer and Deputy 1. Operator described the incident where he was attempting to throw Injured 1 and Injured 2 off the tube while going into the cove and back out. When the vessel went to head out of the cove to sling the tube around, there was a motor failure on his boat. The right motor (two motors on the boat), shut down. Operator stated he lost his steering, and it shot the tube into the dock causing the accident. Operator stated he only got within 80 feet of the dock with the boat. Operator stated multiple times he had been having some motor issues and has receipts to prove it. Operator also stated multiple times this was his fault, and he will “own” it. Officer asked Operator to start the boat so Officer could see the motor issue. Operator attempted to start the boat, but the boat would not start. Operator stated the boat battery must be dead, but after charging the battery there was still no power. Operator began getting agitated by Officer’ questioning. Laying on the passenger seat of the boat was a socket wrench with a socket on it and some spark plugs. Operator. After the accident, two other adults on the boat, identified as Passenger 2 and Passenger 1, got off the boat and rendered first aid to the two victims. Shortly after, Operator left the scene. Operator stated he took the other three juveniles on board back to the house. Operator returned in the boat a short time later but only stayed briefly and never returned to the accident scene. Officer asked Operator if he consumed any alcohol that day. Officer could see an empty Coors Light can below the passenger seat behind a small cooler. Operator said he had none. Officer had learned from a Deputy on scene the driver or passenger of the vessel stated to of had an alcoholic drink earlier. Officer told Operator this. Operator stated he had one beer around 10 or 11 am. Officer asked if he consumed any more alcohol or even used legal or illegal drugs during that day. Operator stated to Officer he had a cocktail after the boat accident had occurred. Officer did not conduct field sobriety. All conversations with Operator were recorded on Officer’ BWC. Officer spoke to Passenger 3 over the phone, the third witness on the dock at the time of the accident. Passenger 3 described Operator as the operator and the erratic operation of the vessel as it was driven in the cove and towards the dock. Operator operated the boat in the opposite direction that is advised by the rules of operation at Sugar Valley. Operator turned right into the cove near a no wake buoy and at the time of the accident was going the wrong direction for the lake. Passenger 3 thought the vessel was no more than 50’ from the dock and probably closer than that. Passenger 3 stated it was obvious the tube was going to strike the dock. After the accident and the adults on board the boat left to attend first aid to the juveniles, Passenger 3 noticed an alcoholic beverage sitting on the dock that did not belong to them. Officer spoke to both adults on the boat with Operator, Passenger 2 and Passenger 1. Both stated they did not know if Operator had consumed any alcohol that day, but both stated there were approximately 10 people total on the boat and both believed Operator just got too close to the dock.

5 uninjured juveniles on the boat not listed.


BARDID: KS-2023-0016
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:49:00
State: KS
NameOfBodyOfWater: Kanopolis Reservoir
NearestCityTown: Marquette
County: Ellsworth
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Electrical
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (unknown origin)
RedactedNarrative:
On 07/08/2023 around 17:49 a boat fire was reported at Kanopolis Lske. The fire was put out by the operator using the onboard fire extinguisher. The boat was towed back to the boat ramp by a bystander. When he got back to the ramp Seasonal Park Ranger 1 gathered the basic information for me. On 07/09/2023 I went to the boat owners house and got the needed information for the damage above $2,000 report. While looking at the boat motor it looks like the fire started near the electrical side of the engine. No other damage were noted to the boat or motor except for the electrical system on the starboard side of the motor.


BARDID: KS-2023-0017
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:00:00
State: KS
NameOfBodyOfWater: Kansas River
NearestCityTown: Silver Lake
County: Shawnee
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Sharp turn
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
RedactedNarrative:
Operator and Passenger launched the airboat at the Kaw River State Park boat ramp to test drive the boat after repairs were made to the boat motor and boat hull.  Operator was the operator and proceeded upstream (west) on the Kansas River making some adjustments to the hull as they went. Around mile marker 96 Operator decided to turn the boat around and head back towards Kaw River State Park.  At this location of the river the channel was very narrow and not a lot of room to make a wide turn so Operator made a sharp left-hand turn.  The boat slid sideways and starboard side of the boat struck a old fallen bridge girder that was laying in the water.  Striking the metal bridge girder caused major damage to the boats hull.  They got the boat off the water and taken back to the Dynamarine shop and assessed the damage to the boat.  It was discovered that the boat would need a new hull.


BARDID: KS-2023-0018
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:50:00
State: KS
NameOfBodyOfWater: Big Hill
NearestCityTown: Cherryvale
County: Labette
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Sharp turn
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
RedactedNarrative:
On July 29, 2023, at approximately 7:50pm, I, Game Warden 1, was informed by Labette County Sheriffs Office of an accident involving a vessel pulling a tube at Big Hill Lake. I arrived at the scene at approximately 8:12pm. When I arrived, I was directed to an unknown white female, later identified as Injured 2. I noticed blood on her head while walking up to her. I asked Injured 2 what happened. Injured 2 stated they were out tubing and they curved too much and ended up getting into the rocks. I asked Injured 2 if it was her dad driving the boat she stated yes. I asked Injured 2 what her dad’s name was she stated Operator. I asked Injured 2 how long they were out on the boat she stated about 3 hours. I asked Injured 2 which side of the tube she was on she stated the right side. Injured 2 also stated her sister-in-law Injured 1 was on the tube with her. I asked Injured 2 when the tube swung too wide if it flipped. Injured 2 stated the tube hit a rock and flipped gesturing with her hands the tube flipping over to the right. Injured 2 also stated she could not tell exactly what happened because she closed her eyes. I asked Injured 2 who else was on the boat she stated her dad and two children. I informed Injured 2 if I had any additional questions I would contact her later. After I was done interviewing Injured 2 a white flatbed truck pulling a boat arrived. I approached the driver a white male, later identified as Operator, and began asking him questions. I asked Operator what happened. Operator stated they were taking the boat out for one last ride and started heading towards the dam. Operator continued stating that he was telling the tubers that he was going to turn by the bank. Operator then stated he turned and brought the tubers around, he was too close, they hit the rocks and flipped. I asked Operator if his grandkids were in the boat with him he stated they were on the bank. Operator stated his daughter and daughter in law were on the tube. I asked Operator if he had a mirror on the boat he stated he did not. I asked Operator if he had a skier down flag he stated he did not. I began to look the boat over for safety equipment life vests, a fire extinguisher and a throw cushion were visible. I asked Operator if there was any beer or  alcohol on the boat he stated no and I could look in the cooler. I looked in the cooler and there was no alcohol. I asked Operator if there was anything else that he could think of that led up to the accident. Operator stated he had been out there for 2.5 hours and turned around telling the tubers he was going to turn. Operator continued stating he looked back when was turning and he turned hard. Operator also stated he was not going full speed but it was enough to get them on the rocks. I told Operator I would take photos of the boat and tube. Operator filled out a witness statement on what happened. Operator finished his statement and I collected his phone number. Operator then left the scene. For full incident report see attachment.


BARDID: KS-2023-0019
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-06-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
State: KS
NameOfBodyOfWater: Perry
NearestCityTown: Ozawkie
County: Jefferson
WaterConditions: Calm
CongestedWaters: Y
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Congested waters
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was reportedly docked in the north slip, on the west side of Rock Creek Marina's courtesy docks. Vessel 2 had just departed from the marina's dock, and was attempting to manuever away from the docks when it collided with vessel 2. I have reason to believe the front corner, on the starboard side of vessel 2, impacted with the rear panel, on the starboard side of vessel 1. It was reportedly estimated to cost $2,500-$2,800 to repair the rear panel on vessel 1. Damage was also reportedly sustained to the tube on the port side of vessel 1, approximately 14' back; however, I have been unable to verify if that damage occurred during the collision with vessel 2, or prior to the incident.

The owner of vessel 1 reported this incident at approximately 12:31 PM on 6/25/23; however, it reportedly occurred at approximately 3:00 PM on 6/24/23. On 7/2/23, I met with the owner of vessel 1 at the Slough Creek bridge ramp and took photographs of it. On 7/12/23, I spoke with Rock Creek marina staff who appeared to have knowledge of the incident, and was informed their rental pontoon, #5, was the vessel involved in the incident. Witness 1 led me to believe that shortly after the collision on 6/24/23, she heard a woman say something to the effect that she wished it would have hit the other side of their boat, since there was already damage on that side. Witness 3 indicated he also heard her say something similar, regarding previous damage to her pontoon. On 7/16/23, I spoke with the operator of vessel 2, and three (3) of the occupants, who each provided me with written statements regarding the incident. V2 Operator, the operator of vessel 2, stated V1 Owner said wished would of been on other side where they wrecked it previously. V2 Passenger 4, an occupant of vessel 2, stated the other owners made a comment to the marina manager, saying, they wished we’d hit the other side, as there was already a lot of damage done from a previous boating incident. V2 Passenger 3, an occupant of vessel 2, stated the gal whose boat we hit said something like, I wish you had hit the other side, we already damaged that side a bunch already, and then we could get it all fixed. On 7/28/23, I took additional photographs of vessel 1 while it was on a trailer at the Slough Creek bridge ramp, and while it was on the water, in a slip, at Rock Creek Marina's courtesy docks. Witness 5 informed me that he received a verbal estimate of $2,500-$2,800, to repair the starboard rear panel on vessel 1. He also indicated it would cost more than $10,000 to repair the damage to the tube on the port side of vessel 1. Witness 5 implied there may have been a misunderstanding regarding the prior damage on the port side of vessel 1, and indicated the dents on the tube may have been caused by the corner of the courtesy dock, during the collision with vessel 2.


BARDID: KS-2023-0020
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:59:00
State: KS
NameOfBodyOfWater: Banner Creek Reservoir
NearestCityTown: Holton
County: Jackson
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause2: Sharp turn
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 and Vessel 2 collided on 7/22/23. During the collision, the operator of Vessel 2 fractured his leg and back, and tore his pectoral muscle. Significant structoral damage was sustained to the hull of Vessel 2, along the port (left) side. Structural damage was sustained to Vessel 1, near the waterline, perpendicular of the captain's seat on the starboard (right) side.

JASO CAD Incident, Medical. Fiberglass damage to the hull on vessel 1's starboard (right) side, approximately 16"x5" in length/width, respectively. Vessel 2 appeared to be a total loss, due to the damage sustained to the hull along it's port (left) side.

Based on my investigation, I have reason to believe that prior to the collision, Vessel 2 was following Vessel 1, approximately fifty (50) yards to the right (starboard) of it, and Vessel 3 was following Vessel 2. Vessel 1 made a sharp turn to starboard (right); turning approximately 180 degrees, then headed towards Vessel 2 on a reciprocal or nearly reciprocal course. In an effort to avoid a head-on collision, Vessel 1 turned to port (left), a violation of Rule 14 of the Inland Navigation Rules, and Vessel 2 turned to starboard (right). During the collision, the operator of Vessel 2 fractured his leg and back, and tore his pectoral muscle. Significant structoral damage was sustained to the hull of Vessel 2, along the port (left) side. Significant structural damage was sustained to Vessel 1, near the waterline, perpendicular of the captain's seat on the starboard (right) side. After the collision, the injured operator of Vessel 2 was transported to shore in Vessel 1. He was subsequently transported by ambulance to Stormont Vail hospital.

Fiberglass damage to the hull on vessel 1's starboard (right) side, approximately 16"x5" in length/width, respectively. Vessel 2 appeared to be a total loss, due to the damage sustained to the hull along it's port (left) side. For additional information, please see Jackson County Sheriff's Office CAD Incident, Medical.


BARDID: KS-2023-0021
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-08-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:30:00
State: KS
NameOfBodyOfWater: Clinton Reservoir
NearestCityTown: Lawrence
County: Douglas
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
On August 26th, 2023, at approximately 17:30 hrs, a call about a sinking jet ski near boat ramp 3 on Clinton lake came out over the radio. Game warden 1 had just got off the water and put up the boat. Game warden 1 quickly returned to the marina and put the boat back in the water. Game warden 1 was crossing the lake when he heard the victim had already been picked up by another boat and taken to boat ramp 3. Game warden 1 responded to boat ramp 3 and talked to the victim, Operator. Operator turned down ems and said he had no injuries. Operator said that he was out riding his jet ski when the wind and waves picked up, so he started returning to boat ramp 3. Operator estimated he was traveling 20-25 mph and tried to head through what he thought was a gap in the flooded trees. Operator stated that a wave picked him up and set him down directly on top of a submerged tree. Operator said the tree was just below the water line, not visible at all. The jet ski was stuck on the tree until another wave picked up the ski again and got it off of the tree. Operator tried to keep heading towards the boat ramp but the motor quickly died and would not start. The jet ski also appeared to be taking on water and sinking. Operator who was wearing a pfd, swam the jet ski to a nearby tree sticking out of the water and tied the jet ski to the tree. Operator then held onto the tree and called 911 on his cell phone. Operator was eventually picked up by a civillian boat and then transferred to a rescue boat before being taken back to boat ramp 3. Game warden 1 went over to where the jet ski was tied and was able to tow the vessel back to boat ramp 3 and secure it to the boat ramp, Operator had lost his truck keys in the lake and so had to get a ride back to his house to get his spare keys. Operator returned later and was able to load the jet ski back onto his trailer. The jet ski had a hole in it on the underside near the intake where the tree had penetrated it. At this time Operator has not recieved an estimate on the damage but believes that the damage is more than $2000. Game warden 1 talked to Operator a few days after the accident. Operator informed Game warden 1 that he had developed a bruise on his right knee and was having a lot of pain in the knee. Operator said he had an MRI scheduled to get the knee looked at. Operator was unsure if the knee was hurt from hitting the tree, the jet ski, or the water. Nothing further to report at this time.


BARDID: KS-2023-0022
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-08-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:40:00
State: KS
NameOfBodyOfWater: Perry Reservoir
NearestCityTown: Perry
County: Jefferson
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On 8-11-23 Operator, Passenger 1 and Injured were out on Perry Lake in Operator 1’s 1994 18’ Sea Ray boat.  Operator 1 was driving the boat and Passenger 1 was in the passenger seat to the left of Operator and Injured was in the front left seat of the boat which was in front of Passenger 1.  At approximately 2230 hrs Operator 1 was driving into the entrance of Perry Marina when the boat struck a floating breakwater.  The floating breakwater was located approximately 100 yards inside the no wake zone at the entrance of the marina.  The boat struck the floating breakwater hard enough to send Injured into the air and out of the boat and onto the bloating breakwater.  Injured ended up getting a laceration to the back of his head which required 4 staples to close it up as well as a concussion.  Injured also sustained bruises and scrapes to his upper back and right shin.  The boat sustained extensive damage to the bow of the boat and well and other locations of the boats hull on the port and starboard side.  In total there was approximately $15,000.00 in damage to the boat. The floating breakwater had an estimated $500.00 in damages. Two other boats were also in the same no wake area at Perry Marina and witnessed the collision.  Witness 4 and Witness 5 saw the accident happen and pulled up to the breakwater and loaded Injured onto their boat and took Injured to C Dock at the marina to get checked out.  C Dock is located to the right or west of the accident location. Witness 4 said the boat that struck the floating breakwater was going at least 30 MPH when it hit and the front passenger was thrown up in the air and out of the boat.  Witness 4 said the driver of the boat that hit the breakwater wasn't being very cooperative with the people trying to help them.  The owner and operator of the second boat who saw the collision happen was Witness 1 and Witness 2.  Witness 1 told this officer that the driver of the boat (Operator 1) was operating the boat at approximately 30 to 40 MPH in the no wake area when the boat struck the breakwater.  Witness 1 said the boat nearly stood straight up before going backwards back into the water.  Witness 3 was on J Dock at Perry Marina and heard the collision happen and the yelling afterwards.  Witness 3 then got on his PWC and drove out to help.  Witness 3 told this officer that when he got to the location the driver of the boat that struck the breakwater (Operator 1) said his boat wouldn’t start and needed to be towed.  Witness 3 towed the boat to the courtesy dock at the marinas boat ramp. Witness 3 said the driver of the boat (Operator 1) appeared to be very intoxicated because he was slurring his speech and couldn’t put a sentence together.  Witness 3 also said the boat operator (Operator 1) didn’t know that his second passenger (Injured) was even missing until Witness 4 came over to his (Operator 1) boat and said they have his passenger that was thrown out of his boat. After the incident at approximately 2319 hrs Operator 1, Passenger 1 and Injured came across each other again at High Tide Bar & Grill at Perry Marina.  Injured’s brother came to High Tide and got Injured and took him home where Injured lives with his mom,  Injured's mom.  Injured's mom then took Injured to the Emergency Room at Stormont-Vail Hospital for medical attention.  Injured's mom told this officer that she called Operator 1 at 2345 hrs to find out what was going on.  Injured's mom said Operator 1 was slurring his speech really bad and could hardly talk. Nobody reported this incident to authorities.  This officer found out about the boat accident by word of mouth the next day (8-12-23) at approximately 1300 hrs. In the afternoon of 8-12-23 I met up and talked with Injured at his mom’s house in Topeka.  Injured showed me his injuries and answered my questions.  Injured said Operator 1 was the driver of the boat at the time of the accident.  In the morning of 8-13-23 I met up with and talked to Operator 1.  I looked over the boat and photographed the damage.  Operator 1 answered my questions.  Operator 1 said he was the driver of the boat when the accident happened and said he and Passenger 1 were talking, and he didn’t see the floating breakwater.  Operator 1 also said he didn’t think the boat accident was required to be reported.


BARDID: KS-2023-0023
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-08-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:27:00
State: KS
NameOfBodyOfWater: Perry
NearestCityTown: Ozawakie
County: Jefferson
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Inadequate onboard navigation lights
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On 8-25-23 at approximately 2127 hrs. V1 Injured and V1 Operator in their boat and V2 Operator in his boat were involved in a boating accident near Longview boat ramp at Perry Lake.  Sunset on this day was 2004 hrs. V2 Operator put his boat on the lake at Longview boat ramp earlier that afternoon and was in his boat fishing around Longview boat ramp.  Just prior to the boat accident V2 Operator was fishing south of the boat ramp and decided to move to a different location to the northwest.  V2 Operator said he started his boat and before he put the boat into forward gear, he looked to the direction he wanted to go and didn’t see any boats.  V2 Operator said he proceeded to put the boat into forward gear and started to give it more throttle.  V2 Operator said after a few seconds his boat hit something and the next thing he remembers is he was in the water.  V2 Operator believed he was knocked out for a short time and doesn’t remember all the details immediately after the accident. V1 Injured and V1 Operator put their boat on the lake at Longview boat ramp at approximately 2030 hrs.  At the time of the accident, they were sitting in their boat with the boat motor shut off floating approximately 100 yards outside the No Wake Area of the Longview boat ramp.  V1 Injured was sitting on the swim platform on the starboard side and V1 Operator was sitting on the swim platform on the port side.  V1 Operator got up when he saw the boat coming their direction and got up into the boat.  V1 Operator told V1 Injured that the boat was going to hit them and then he moved towards the drivers seat and the boat struck them. Jefferson County Sheriff’s Deputy 1 was dispatched to the boat accident and gathered information for the accident report. V1 Injured was transported to Stormont Vail Hospital in Topeka by Jefferson County EMS. V1 Injured’s injures consisted of a broken rib on her right side and bruising to her upper back.  V2 Operator refused transport to the hospital but was later taken to Stormont Vails Hospital that night by his wife.  V2 Operator’s injuries consisted of a chipped tooth V1 boat had extensive hull damage to the port side, back half of the boat.  The rear starboard side had moderate damage as well. V1 Operator said he thought the navigation lights (red & green and all-around white light) were on but sometimes V1 Injured disconnects the all-around light when she sits on the swim deck to keep the bugs away.  I checked the electrical components to the boat.  The horn, blower, bilge pump worked, and the navigation light (red & green and all-around white light) did not work.  I checked the wiring and the bulb to the all-around light, and everything looked good even though the pole to the all-around light was bent.  Based off photos of the boat I was given a $25,000.00 damage estimate of the boat. V2 Operators boat had fiberglass damage to the bow of the boat above the bow eye.  Fiberglass damage towards the front third of the boat, mainly along the chines.  Additional fiberglass damage on the rear ports side.  The lower unit also had transfer paint on it where it struck V1 boat.  The prop on the lower unit was not damaged.  Based off photos of the boat I was given a $8,500.00 damage estimate of the boat hull and another $2,500.00 for possible lower unit damage.  V2 Operator said at the time of the accident his red and green navigation light was not plugged in, therefore not on but the all-around white light was plugged in and working.   Photos taken by Deputy 1 the night of the accident showed that to be true. At the time of the boat accident both boats were in violation of not having their required boat navigation lights on.  Both boats should have had their red & green and the all-around white light on.  V2 Operator was also operating his boat with his fish finders on which were located on the steering console in front of the steering wheel.  Having the screens of the fish finders on while driving would have likely made it harder for V2 Operator to see V1 boat on the water even though V1 Operator did not have their boat navigation lights on.  If V1 Operator had their boat navigation lights on, then V2 Operator would have had a better chance of seeing them that night before and after V2 Operator started to operate his boat in the direction of V1 boat.


BARDID: KS-2023-0024
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-08-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:15:00
State: KS
NameOfBodyOfWater: Tuttle Creek
NearestCityTown: Olsburg
County: Pottawatomie
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
AccidentCause3: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
RedactedNarrative:
At approximately 1715 hrs on August 23, 2023, Injured was being towed on a Airhead tube by a 2017 Yamaha Waverunner EX that was operated by Operator and a Passenger was onboard as the acting spotter. Injured was thrown from the tube while traveling between 42-43 mph and hit her head on the water upon impact. Injured was able to get back on the tube with no assistance. Injured rode on the tube for approximately ten minutes, then switched out with Passenger as the spotter for another ten minutes. However, once Injured arrived back to the shoreline and sat down on the beach, she started complaining of a headache and neck pain. This was soon followed with losing feeling of the left side of her body. During evaluations by Deputy to confirm any numbness in her extremities, Injured noted she lost feeling in her right arm too. Injured was taken by LIFESTAR to Kansas University Medical Hospital in Kansas City for a potential cervical spine injury. Injured was released from the hospital on August 25, 2023 and was diagnosed with a traumatic head injury, due to the fall. During an interview with Injured, she stated that Operator started to pull the tube before she even had a chance to fully buckle her life jacket and that she attempted to get him to slow down or stop while being pulled. However, interviews with Operator and Passenger, they both stated that they never saw or heard Injured trying to get them to slow down or stop. I asked Passenger if at any point that she felt like Operator was operating the personal watercraft in a reckless manner or going too fast, and she said no.


BARDID: KS-2023-0025
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-09-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:00:00
State: KS
NameOfBodyOfWater: Elk City Reservoir
NearestCityTown: Independence
County: Montgomery
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Operator was driving in excess of 40mph. Driver stated the vessel rolled over to the port side. Driver stated he was ejected from the vessel.


BARDID: KS-2023-0026
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-10-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:01:00
State: KS
NameOfBodyOfWater: Wilson Reservoir
NearestCityTown: Bunker Hill
County: Russell
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
RedactedNarrative:
On 10/8/2023 at approximately 1601 hrs Russell County Sheriff's Office Dispatch received a report of a possible drowning on Wilson reservoir near the elm creel boat ramp. The caller’s husband Victim had fallen from their vessel while she was sleeping. Caller heard a thump and splash and could not see Victim. Caller then called the Russell County Sheriff's office to report the drowning. 

At approximately 1640hrs Game Warden arrived at to the vessel caller was on. At the time of arrival Caller was the only person on the vessel and the throttle was in neutral with the engine off. Warden then anchored Callers vessel and took Caller to shore on Warden's patrol boat. Later in the day Game Warden drove Caller's boat to the elm creek boat ramp on Wilson reservoir where the Russell County Sheriffs office loaded and inventoried the boat. 

Game Wardens spoke to two separate fishermen on separate boats who were fishing east of where the incident occurred and told Wardens they remembered the boat the Caller's were in and no other boats were in the area of the incident. 

The closest of the fishermen was an off duty highway patrolman. From 10/8/2023-10/12/2023 Russell County Sheriff's office, Kansas Department of Wildlife & Parks, The Army Corp of Engineers, and the Kansas Highway Patrol searched for Victim in the area Caller was when she called 911. Victim's body was spotted floating west of where the 911 calls were pinged approximately 200 meters. Victim's body was recovered by the Kansas Department of Wildlife & Parks. Game Wardens were on the vessel when the recovery was made. 

It was apparent Victim had been struck by the propeller of a boat and was then turned over the Russell County Sheriff's office for an autopsy. The initial autopsy report was Victim died from a propeller strike and did not drown. On the afternoon of 10/12/2023 Warden and Russell County Sheriff's deputy interviewed Caller at her house. 

During this interview Caller claimed she did not remember driving the boat at all on 10/8/2023. After the interview Warden seized Caller's vessel and towed it to a KDWP Boat House for investigation. Prior to moving Warden wrapped a trash bag around the lower unit of the vessel to preserve evidence during transport. On 10/13/2023 Game Warden Boating Officers met Warden to inspect the vessel. 

Wardens found no evidence of an impact on the bottom of the vessel. While examining the propeller Wardens found their to be light in color smear marks on the propeller. The smears were inconsistent with a different smear pattern on each blade. They then had Waconda boats unbolt the propeller while Officer1 removed and placed the propeller into a box and sealed it with evidence tape. 

On 10/16/2023 Officer1 took the propeller to the Kansas Bureau of Investigations lab in Great Bend for DNA  Analysis. On his return he met with the Russell County Sheriff and Undersheriff to give them an update and get GPS points from them. On 10/17/2023 Officer1 received the Coroners Report and spoke with the Coroner. Dr explained to Officer1 that victim died from the injuries of the propeller strike and did not drown. There was no bruising or skeg marks on his body showing the vessel that struck victim was not moving at a high rate of speed. Dr stated victim’s left arm was at his side at the time of the incident and victim was not backed over.


BARDID: KS-2023-0027
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-12-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 05:50:00
State: KS
NameOfBodyOfWater: Clinton Reservoir
NearestCityTown: Clinton
County: Douglas
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Inadequate onboard navigation lights
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Prior to the collision, Vessel 1 was reportedly anchored, and did not have its navigation lights illuminated. 

Vessel 2 was reportedly traveling between 21-40 mph, with its navigation lights illuminated, and appeared to have been on a course of approximately 225 degrees. The owner/operator of vessel 1 reportedly turned on the navigation lights seconds prior to the collision. The light switch appeared to be in the 'off' position when I inspected vessel 1, approximately 10 hours and 42 minutes after the collision.

During the collision, the bow of vessel 2 impacted with the aft corner of vessel 1, on the starboard side. The owner/operator of vessel 1 was reportedly injured after the collision occurred, while vessel 1 was being towed to boat ramp 2, near the marina. Vessel 1 appeared to be a total loss, due to the damage sustained. I estimated the cost was approximately $2,000. The estimated cost to repair vessel 2 was reportedly, $12,000.

See Douglas County Sheriff's Office case #D23-25225 for additional information.


BARDID: KY-2023-0001
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-03-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:40:00
State: KY
NameOfBodyOfWater: Private Pond
NearestCityTown: SPRINGFIELD
County: washington
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
CoordinatesConfidence: C
RedactedNarrative:
On 3/15/2023 at approximately 00:07, I Conservation Officer Sgt. received a call from KSP Post dispatch stating that there had been a drowning in Washington County. After speaking with Officers of the Washington County Sheriff’s Office; I learned that the body had already been recovered and was going to be sent for autopsy. 

       The initial call was made to Washington County 911 at approximately 22:40 on 3/14/2023 by Operator’s wife. Wife told dispatch that she was concerned that her husband had fallen into their pond. She stated that his boat was not tied up to the dock where it normally was, his ATV was parked near the water, and their dog came running up from the pond area without her husband.
 
       Wife gave a written statement to the Washington County Sheriff’s Office according to that statement the last time she talked to her husband on the phone was around 18:00 when her husband was at the gym.  Wife returned home around 21:48 and noticed that the ATV was not in the garage, so she went inside and got a flashlight. When she shined the flashlight on the pond, she could see the ATV next to the pond and the boat floating on the water. After yelling for her husband and receiving no response she became concerned that her husband had fallen in, so she went to the neighbors for help. Once she seen the buckets of concrete that her husband had made to sink fish habitat were gone, she knew where he was and called 911.  

       The neighbor also gave a statement to the Washington County Sheriffs Office according to his statement: he received a call from victim’s wife at approximately 22:30 stating that she could not find her husband. He then went down to the pond with a flashlight where he could see victim under the water. 

       The body was recovered by members of Willisburg Fire Department utilizing the boat that was on scene. Witnesses that pulled the body from the water stated there was some pink string wrapped around his right foot, but it did not have him anchored. He and was pronounced dead at 23:40 by Washington County Coroner. 

       There were no witnesses to the expected drowning so one can only speculate what events led to Operator entering the water that caused to his death. Photographs show that he did have a small injury to his forehead and string wrapped around his right foot. It is unknown if Operator hit his head prior to entering the water, it is also unknown if the string around his foot prohibited his swimming ability in any way. It is worth noting that his wife stated that her husband was afraid of water and could not swim. Operator had also had back surgery back in October and was still on medication. These are all possible contributing factors. 
 
*Autopsy report is attached lists cause of death as drowning. 
*Washington County Sheriff’s Office will be carrying the death investigation 


BARDID: KY-2023-0002
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2023-03-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:00:00
State: KY
NameOfBodyOfWater: Dewey Lake
NearestCityTown: Prestonsburg
County: Floyd
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Equipment failure
EquipmentFailure: Auxiliary
OtherEquipmentFailure: Bilge pump
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Sinking
RedactedNarrative:
I was dispatched to Dewey Lake Marina to a houseboat that had sunk. Upon arrival I noticed a houseboat underwater with just the top portion of the boat above water. Upon investigation and speaking to Repairman who worked on getting the houseboat above water he stated "there was no check valve on the bilge pump causing the boat to take on water and sink." When the boat originally took on water just the rear of the boat was under water so civilians from the surrounding house boats tied the front of the boat off to a pole on the bank. After a short time, the pole started giving way and they had to cut the line and let the boat continue to sink. Repairman was contacted to raise the houseboat and fix the check valve on the bilge pump to keep it from taking on water, since the boat has been raised and the check valve installed it seems to be in safe working order. The boat remains on Dewey Lake at the marina and a complete remodel has begun on the interior of the boat.


-Officer 


BARDID: KY-2023-0003
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-05-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:15:00
State: KY
NameOfBodyOfWater: Grayson Lake
NearestCityTown: GRAYSON
County: Carter
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Sudden medical condition
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
RedactedNarrative:
While on boat patrol at Grayson Lake, I was returning to the marina when I was waved down by individuals that had run their rental pontoon into the embankment. The vessel was approximately half way on the embankment. Upon initial contact I boarded vessel 1 and asked if any medical assistance was needed, both parties denied summoning EMS. After receiving consent from both parties to search the boat and any personal belongings, there was no alcoholic beverages or drugs/drug paraphernalia. I asked who was operating the vessel, Operator stated that he was the operator at the time of the accident. Operator also stated that he had blacked out, and that is what caused him to drive into the embankment. While conversing with the subjects there were no indicators of impairment.

After vessel 1 was towed back to the marina by Grayson Lake Marina employees, I interviewed both subjects. The operator stated that he had blacked out in the past but that it had been two years since his last episode. I then spoke with the Grayson Lake Marina employees to get an estimate of the damages. They claimed that the lower unit outdrive was new, but that it had been severely damaged and would need replacing. There were also several small dings on the hull, and a hole through the perimeter skirting. 

 -OFFICER 


BARDID: KY-2023-0004
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2023-06-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:00:00
State: KY
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE BARKLEY/PRIZER POINT
NearestCityTown: CADIZ
County: TRIGG
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent3: Sinking
RedactedNarrative:
Sgt. 1 received a call from KSP Post 1  concerning a boating accident on Lake Barkley near Prizer Point. A vessel had sunk with three occupants in the water. Sgt. 1 made several phone calls to the witness’s and operator of the vessel. It was confirmed that there were no injuries of any kind. During a phone interview with the operator of the vessel. While under power, he thought he had hit a partially submerged object of some kind. The 32 ft vessel started to take on water a short time later. Water started to come into the cockpit prompting Operator to maneuver the sinking vessel closer to the shore. The vessel sank stern first, causing the 3 occupants to abandon the vessel. Nearby boaters came to the aid of the occupants and transported them to Prizer Point Marina. 
 
Tow boat USA was contacted, and they recovered the vessel on 06-03-2023. I spoke with Operator, and he advised that he contacted his insurance company and let them know what happened. The vessel was towed back to Prizer Point Marina to be loaded on its trailer. Once loaded, the vessel was transported back to Green Turtle Bay Resort to be stored until further notice. I emailed all parties witness statement sheets to be filled out and completed.

- LT. 2


BARDID: KY-2023-0005
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-06-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:40:00
State: KY
NameOfBodyOfWater: WILLIAMSTOWN LAKE
NearestCityTown: WILLIAMSTOWN
County: GRANT
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentEvent2: Collision with fixed object
RedactedNarrative:
On 06-02-2023, at around 12:40 p.m., this incident took place on Williamstown Lake in Williamstown, KY.  Operator was operating his 21-foot Sea Ray pleasure craft with three passengers on board (Passengers 1, 3 and 2). The boat was in the act of towing a four-seat inflatable tube with passengers Injured 1, Passenger 4, Passenger 5 and Injured 2.  Operator began making circular paths, slingshotting the tube behind. When he made what he described as his "last turn", he claimed he looked up and realized how close he was getting to the bank. He stated that as soon he saw the dock, he throttled down and straightened his course. At this point, the tube was still under tension and the momentum of the tube carried it across the water toward the dock. Since the boat was so close to the dock, there was enough rope slack to allow the tube to reach the dock. At that time the tube with passengers struck the dock. All individuals on the tube were wearing personal floatation devices. Injured 1, who was seated in the far starboard side of the tube, impacted the dock first and recieved a laceration to her right hand and complained of pain in her right side.  Injured 2 who was seated in the far port side of the tube, complained of neck pain. The group returned to their dock and called 911. Dry Ridge Fire Department arrived first on scene and transported Injured 1 and Injured 2 to St. Elizabeth/Grant in Williamstown for treatment.

At the time of my interview with Operator, he did not show any signs of impairment. I conducted a Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus test which showed no clues of impairment. All of the witnesses stated he had not been drinking alcohol that day. Operator stated he has around forty years of experience boating and goes boating on a regular basis every summer. 

The Sea Ray did not have a rear-view mirror and based on interviews with the witnesses on board, they did not have a designated observer watching the tube.

Agencies that responded include, Dry Ridge Fire Department, Williamstown Police Department, Grant County Sheriffs office, Walton Fired Department, and the Department of Fish and Wildlife. 


-OFFICER 1


BARDID: KY-2023-0006
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2023-05-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 01:00:00
State: KY
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE CUMBERLAND
NearestCityTown: JAMESTOWN
County: Russell
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
AccidentCause2: Ignition of spilled fuel or vapor
MachineryFailure: Electrical
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (unknown origin)
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent3: Sinking
RedactedNarrative:
On May 21st, 2023 at 01:17 AM, I, Sgt. 1, received a call from KSP Post 15 in Columbia, advising that State Dock Marina was on fire. I responded and was enroute at 01:20:59. While enroute I learned that it was a boat that was on fire and the area around the boat. I arrived on scene at 02:14 AM and learned the Jamestown Fire Department was on scene, and had towed the burning vessel out of the marina area, away from other vessels and into open water for safety reasons. 
Upon arrival on scene, Chief 2 with the Jamestown Fire Department advised that the vessel had sank just prior to my arrival, just outside the harbor area while being towed.
 During my investigation, I also observed extensive damage to the Marina and to the immediate area around the slip where the vessel in question was moored. 
I made contact with the Owner and learned he and Passenger were sleeping in the cuddy of his 2006 Regal 3560 Commodore when just before 01:00 AM they were awakened by a loud "boom" like noise, looked up and saw flames at the stern of his vessel. He stated it would have been impossible for them to exit the vessel out the stern/rear, as it was totally engulfed in flames. Owner stated they exited the burning vessel through the hatch in the top of the vessels bow, jumped from the burning vessel, entering the water between the 200 and 300 row of slips and swam to safety, over to the 200 row of slips.  
The cause and origin of the fire is unknown and is still under investigation and will be determined by the timeframe of when, or if the vessel is or can be recovered from off the bottom of the lake.

                                    Applicable Laws & Regulations


Kentucky Administrative Regulations
301 KAR 6:030
 Section 1- Accident Reporting. (1) The operator of a vessel required by KRS 235.250(2) to file an accident report shall file the report within five (5) days, except that an accident involving death or serious injury shall be filed within forty-eight (48) hours.


BARDID: KY-2023-0007
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2023-05-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:45:00
State: KY
NameOfBodyOfWater: Laurel River Lake
NearestCityTown: CORBIN
County: whitley
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentCause3: Improper lookout
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
While on patrol on Laurel Lake in the area of Grove Marina and Whippoorwill Creek I observed a vessel beached on the lake shore with individuals standing on the lake bank. There was an another vessel in close proximity who began waving their arms at this officer in what appeared to be an attempt to gain my attention. 

Upon contact with the vessels I was informed by Operator that they had struck a shallow point while running approximately 30 mph. He reported that the collision had reported about ten minutes before my arrival. He advised he was the operator of the vessel at the time of the collision. He advised he felt the vessel strike the point and shortly after began taking on water. They drifted back into the lake shore where they secured the vessel to the bank. Passengers 1 and 2 were reported to be riding in the rear passenger seats behind the operator, and two juveniles, Passengers 4 and 3, were reported riding in the bow area of the vessel at the time of the Collison. No injuries were reported by any persons involved. The vessel involved had taken on a large amount of water and was unable to be towed at the time of the incident. The vessel was secured to the lake bank where pertinent personal property was removed. This officers body cam was activated and recording during the interviewing of the operator and passengers.

While speaking to Operator I observed him to be unsteady on his feet, have bloodshot eyes, and I smelled the odor of alcoholic beverages emitting from his persons. SFST tests were conducted on Operator where he showed clues of impairment leading this officer to believe that he was under the influence. He was placed under arrest and transported to Grove Marina where KSP Trooper 2 transported Operator to the Whitley County Detention Center. At the detention center, Operator submitted to a breath sample by intoxlyzer, with the results being: .094

On May 28, 2023, the Laurel County Rescued Squad attempted to remove the vessel but was unsuccessful.

On May 30, 2023 Marine Assist was able to remove the vessel and load it onto Operator vessel trailer. Also on this date, this officer utilized his department issued drone to gather videos and photographs of an ariel view of the incident location. This officer also took pictures of the vessel while on the trailer at Grove Marina.

DAMAGE ASSESSMENT:
The vessel, sustained damage to the rudder and propeller of the vessel. The rudder was broken off of the vessel resulting in a hole in the hull, allowing water to enter the engine compartment. The propeller sustained damage to the fins.

KRS/KAR:
If any of the following conditions occur as the result of a boating accident, collision, etc., a Boating Accident Report must be made:
death or disappearance of a person;
injury to a person which requires medical attention or incapacitates that person for 24 hours or more;
loss or damage to property (including the vessel) in an amount of $500 or more.
The operator of a vessel is required to complete the report. If the operator is not capable of filing the report and is not the owner of the vessel, then the owner shall be required to fill out a boating accident report.
Note 1: Even if a Law Enforcement Officer fills out a boating accident report, this does not exempt the operator from filing a report.
Note 2: The reports filed by operators of vessels are confidential and are not available as public record (KRS 235.250). However, reports made by officers are available for review.
Accidents involving death or serious injury must be submitted to the Division of Law Enforcement within 48 hours. All others must be submitted within five days.


BARDID: KY-2023-0008
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-05-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 23:52:00
State: KY
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Cumberland
NearestCityTown: RUSSELL SPRINGS
County: Russell
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentCause3: Improper lookout
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
RedactedNarrative:
At approximately 23:58cst I, Officer 1 received a call of a boat running aground across from the old Alligator boat ramp in Russell County on Lake Cumberland. Sgt. 2 and I located the vessel on the bank, it had been abandoned by the subjects on it. I took photographs of Vessel 1 as it was left by the operator and passenger. We then began searching the area to make sure no one was hurt or needed medical attention. It quickly became evident that the subjects were in the woods trying to avoid making contact with us. We spoke to some fishermen who were the original callers, they stated the subjects weren’t injured and could be heard yelling and laughing before going into the woods prior to our arrival. After and extensive search we left the location and contacted Marine Assist to tow the vessel off the bank. Marine Assist said they were waiting until daybreak before towing the vessel. 

I received a call from Post at approximately 04:27cst stating the original caller called back and the subjects had returned to the vessel. Sgt. 2 and I returned to the site of the vessel on the bank and contacted the vessel owner. The passenger was Passenger. Upon contact it was apparent that both subjects had been consuming alcohol. It was coming off their person as well as their general appearance. The subject’s stated they were the only two on the vessel and were running off GPS and attributed that as the reason they ran ashore. I conducted SFST’s on Operator, he showed multiple clues of impairment on all test’s administered. I arrested him for BUI and transported him to Russell County Detention center. 

Damage Assessment 

As seen in the photos the boat sustained major paint damage due to running aground, per the boat owner there was no mechanical damage to report. As far as what was seen at the scene there was no mechanical or structural damage to report other than the paint damage listed above.


Applicable Laws & Regulations

Code of Federal Regulations- 33 CFR 83:

Rule 5- Lookout
Every vessel shall at all times maintain a proper lookout 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.

Kentucky Revised Statues
KRS 235.240
Operating a Boat/Watercraft While Intoxicated or Under the Influence.
Kentucky Revised Statues
KRS 235.240
Operating a Boat/Watercraft While Intoxicated or Under the Influence.


Prohibition of operation of boat negligently or while intoxicated or drugged -- Consent to test for alcohol or drugs -- Elements of operation under influence of alcohol or other substance. (1) A person shall not operate any motorboat or vessel, or manipulate any water skis, surfboard, or similar device, in a reckless or negligent manner so as to endanger the life or property of any person. (2) A person shall not operate any motorboat or vessel, or manipulate any water skis, surfboard, or similar device, while intoxicated or under the influence of any other substance which impairs one's driving ability. (3) Any person who operates a vessel upon the waters of the Commonwealth shall be deemed to have given consent to a test or tests as accepted by the state's evidentiary mandate for the purpose of determining the operator's alcohol concentration or the presence of other drugs. The test or tests shall be administered at the direction of a law enforcement officer who has probable cause to believe that the operator may have been violating this section. (4) For the purposes of enforcing subsection (2) of this section, the elements of the offense are those established in KRS 189A.010(1) to (4), except that the penalties for this offense are set forth in KRS 235.990.

Summations of Findings

Based on the statements provided from the operator and his passenger and evidence the operator failed to maintain a proper lookout. The operator stated he was running off of GPS as well as stated he had been consuming alcohol. The evidence obtained from the wreck and after show that there was no proper lookout maintained as well as the operator being charged with Boating Under the Influence were both the two contributing factors to this vessel running aground


BARDID: KY-2023-0009
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-05-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:00:00
State: KY
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAUREL LAKE
NearestCityTown: WILLIAMSBURG
County: Whitley
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
On May 29th, 2023 at approximately 1400 hrs EST, I was contacted by Ofc. 1 via telephone in reference to a single boat collision on Laurel River Lake.  Ofc. 1 advised Post 11 dispatchers received a call from Laurel County 911 informing that Passenger 2 stated the boat she was on had started to sink. Passenger 2 advised the vessel was pulled onto the shoreline near the mouth of Line Creek. 

Upon our arrival, I observed a  22ft Smoker Craft Sunship, displaying KY vessel registration, partially sunken with the stern of the vessel underwater. The bow of the vessel was beached on the shoreline. I spoke with Owner/Operator and Passenger 1, who stated earlier in the day they had hit a sandbar but did not observe any damage to the vessel so they continued to use the vessel. 

Approximately three hours later, they attempted to pull a tube with their juvenile children on it but the vessel would not come up on plane. At this time, Passenger 1 observed a stern compartment on the vessel collecting a large amount of water. They navigated to the shoreline while the vessel continued to take on water. When on the shoreline, they tied the front of the vessel to a near by tree in an attempt to keep it from sinking.

On days following the incident Ofc. 1 attempted to contact Operator via telephone to schedule a time to take photographs of the vessel while it was out of the water. He never received a response from Operator.

There were no reported injuries at the time of the incident. No alcohol or drug involvement was suspected.


BARDID: KY-2023-0010
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-06-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:24:00
State: KY
NameOfBodyOfWater: Green River Lake
NearestCityTown: CAMPBELLSVILLE
County: Taylor
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On June 3rd of 2023 at 17:28 EST, KSP Post advised me, Officer 1 of a boat accident in which Operator1 was hit by a Sea-Doo on Green River Lake causing damage to his vessel. I contacted Operator1 and met him and the Sea-Doo operator, Operator2 at Site One boat ramp. There I learned both vessels were still operational, and the Sea-Doo and the Baja operated by Operator1. All occupants on both vessels denied medical treatment.

I interview Operator2 and the occupant on his Sea-Doo. Operator2 stated they were riding on the personal watercraft (PWC) and saw a boat passing them. As he was going to the left of Operator1 vessel, it stopped in front of him. He stated he turned the PWC hard to the left to avoid a T-bone collision. Operator2 stated that he had been jumping vessels' wake and that they came through some waves, and he had looked back. When he turned back around the boat was in front of them. He let off the throttle and turned it hard to the left. Operator2 stated he and his son got off the Sea-Doo just prior to it hitting the Baja. 

Operator1 stated they were going down the lake toward Holmes Bend when a female passenger lost her hat, so he slowed down to turn around. Operator1 began to turn left, while the PWC was following too close, and ran right into the port side of his boat.  Operator1 told me that the operator of the PWC had been jumping their wake and made eye contact before the collision and stated the operator of the PWC had time to turn but didn’t. 

A witness to the collision from his own vessel that was going down the lake towards Green River Marina. Witness had drawn out how the collision had happened. Witness stated the PWC was going up the lake toward Holmes Bend and the runabout was stopped making a slight left turn due to something flying out of the vessel. As the runabout was turning left the PWC struck the runabout on the port side. Subject stated that the PWC riders had bailed off before hitting the runabout.

                                                         Witness statements-
V2 occupant (Passenger of the Sea-Doo) stated his dad (Operator2) was driving and was just hitting waves like the other PWC. V2 occupant stated he told his dad that the speed boat was coming back, and he looked through the rear-view mirror and they were coming up the left side and continued to hit waves. After they landed, the boat was stopped in the middle of the lake right in front of them. Both V2 occupant and operator2 fell off the opposite side of the crash side. V2 occupant stated they offered to take everyone back their houseboat to get it all sorted out, but the other vessel didn’t want to. 

Subject2 (Passenger of Baja) stated they were driving down the lake, they slowed down to turn around and a jet ski was following too close behind them. It looked like they weren’t trying to stop or slow down and ran right into the side of the boat.


BARDID: KY-2023-0019
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:00:00
State: KY
NameOfBodyOfWater: Laurel Lake
NearestCityTown: LONDON
County: LAUREL
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause3: Overloading
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Falls overboard
RedactedNarrative:
On 7/8/23 I, Officer 1, was dispatched to a vessel that had capsized near Holly Bay Marina. Ofc. 2 was already on scene gathering the involved parties information prior to my arrival. Upon arrival I spoke with the passengers and operator of the vessel to gather pertinent information. Persons on the vessel, at the time of capsizing is as listed; Operator, Passengers 5, 6, 7 and Passenger 1, Passenger 2, Passenger 3, Passenger 4. The total max capacity listed for the vessel is 8 persons or 1128 lbs.

Operator of a 2023 Sea doo Switch, stated he was coming into the no wake zone at Holly Bay Marina. Once in the no wake zone, he throttled his engine down and advised a wave hit the bow of his vessel and submerged it. Operator informed he accelerated the vessel in an attempt to prevent the vessel from taking on additional water. Upon accelerating the vessel Operator described the vessel as "submarining", resulting in the vessel taking on more water. The vessel then began capsizing resulting in everyone on the boat entering the water. 

Once the individuals on board got to shore, two jet skis strapped ropes to the vessel and flipped it over, the vessel was then towed to shore and tied off to a near by tree. 

There were no reported injuries at the time of this incident, all individuals involved were reported to be wearing their PFD's. 

No alcohol or drug use was suspected.

DAMAGE ASSESSMENT:

Vessel 1 sustained damage to the Bimini top, and water was located in the engine compartment.

OFFICER 1


BARDID: KY-2023-0020
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:15:00
State: KY
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Cumberland
NearestCityTown: MONTICELLO
County: WAYNE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
RedactedNarrative:
On July 4th, 2023 at approximately 1215 hrs EST, Post  dispatchers received a call from Wayne County E-911 about a medical emergency in Otter Creek on Lake Cumberland. Wayne County E-911 did not give any more information except that Wayne County Search and Rescue was going to find where the medical emergency was. Upon my arrival to Beaver Creek Marina, I saw Wayne County Search and Rescue members and asked them what had happened. They told me that a woman, Injured, was skiing behind a 1997 20 foot Four Winns 200 Horizon when her feet, inside the skis, separated causing her to fall into the water possibly breaking her hip. Wayne County EMS was contacted and transported Injured to the Wayne County Airport where she was airlifted to the University of Kentucky Medical Center. Upon locating the family, I spoke with the operator of the vessel, Operator, and passengers 1 and 2. They all three stated that Injured was attempting to get herself up on the skis when her feet spread too far possibly breaking her hip. Passengers 1 and 2 both served as lookouts for Injured. The vessel was equipped with the appropriate amount of PFDs. Injured was wearing her PFD at the time of the accident. No further update on Injured's injuries had been given at the time that I was speaking with the family.

I was unable to get Injured Social Security Number from Post 11 Dispatchers, Wayne County 911 or Wayne County EMS. Injured refused to provide her SSN over the phone or by email because she was worried about being scammed.

On July 15th, 2023, after several attempts to contact the family, I was able to reach Operator, Injured's husband. He stated that Injured was released from UK on Tuesday, July 11th, 2023. 
Injured sustained a broken right femur because of the incident. Surgeons with the University of Kentucky Medical Center had to place a rod with pins to repair the femur fracture.

-OFFICER


BARDID: KY-2023-0021
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-06-03 00:00:00
State: KY
NameOfBodyOfWater: Ohio River
NearestCityTown: WEST POINT
County: MEADE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with governmental vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Upon conducting interviews with the owner and passenger of vessel 2 , it was stated that they were drift fishing for catfish in the vicinity of Otter Creek on the Ohio River. Officer 1 approached the vessel from the starboard side during a vessel stop for compliance checks. The passenger of vessel 2 reeled in his line so that Officer 1’s vessel could come along side. Vessel 2 owner asked the officer if he wanted him to engage spot lock on his trolling motor. According to vessel 2 owner, Officer 1 said yes. 

According to vessel 2 owner and passenger, Officer 1 approached the vessel at near a 90-degree angle and hit the vessels trolling motor with the bow of his vessel. Officer 1’s vessel then hit the starboard side of vessel 2 causing damage to the side and rub rail. Officer 1 then hit the starboard side of vessel 2 with his engine while pulling away from vessel 2 according to owner and passenger.

Vessel 2 owner and passenger found the damage to the starboard side of vessel at the boat ramp after taking vessel out of the water.

Officer 1 has no recollection of vessel stop and causing damage. Officer 1 stated that soon after that vessel stop, he was dispatched to a drowning and then a domestic call.

-Officer 2


BARDID: KY-2023-0022
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:04:00
State: KY
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE CUMBERLAND
NearestCityTown: JAMESTOWN
County: RUSSELL
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On July 7/3/2023 at Approximately, 19:15 I, Officer 1, was contacted by KSP Post 15 stating a two-vessel hit and run had occurred in Lilly Creek. They contacted Sgt. 2 who advised them to let me work the complaint next date. On July 4, 2023, I made contact with V2 Operator, operator of vessel 2. He stated that last date he was in Lilly creek when he observed a jet ski occupied 3 times coming straight towards him. He slowed to approximately 25mph so he could see what direction the jet ski was going to go so he could react. He said they never changed direction and at that time he increased throttle and turned approximately 90 degrees to his right. The jet ski struck the port rear corner of his vessel throwing the 3 occupants of it into the water. V2 Operator stated, he then rendered aid to make sure everyone was okay. It was at that time a boat that was accompanying the jet ski pulled up and stated they were going to pull the jet ski to the ramp as it was taking on water. Vessel 1 stated they could exchange information there and take care of the matter. V2 Operator stated his boat got swamped from the collision and was having issues getting his boat immediately started, but he then got it back operable a short time later. By the time he made it to the ramp the occupants of vessel 1 weren’t there and had left the scene.  I went to V2 Operator’s residence where vessel 1 was located and took photographs and gathered the vessel’s information. V2 Operator was able to provide pictures of vessel 1 from the collision and I’m currently investigating the owners/operators of it. 
I was able to make contact with the other party involved in the collision. I made contact with Owner of Vessel 1. V1 Owner was not the operator at the time of the collision his son V1 Operator was operating the PWC with two other occupants. I got a statement from V1 Operator in which he states he was on the right side of the lake when he turned to wave at a boat passing by it was at that time Vessel 2 was coming around the bend. He states, he took a hard right turn but was unable to avoid vessel 2 and struck the rear portside with the PWC. He stated his PWC was taking on water and had to be towed back to their local dock where the PWC was docked at. He states, that V2 Operator was instructed to meet them back there but failed to show up. 

Damage Assessment
I spoke with V2 Operator he stated the owner of Vessel 2 has already had it repaired and the total cost was around 5,040 
V1 Owner stated he hadn’t got his PWC looked at and was unaware of the total cost to repair the hole in the bottom. 
Applicable Laws and Regulations
Code of Federal Regulations 
 
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.
Vessel 1 failed to comply with this rule as both parties stated in their statements, there was another vessel that had the operator’s attention at the time and therefore was unable to see vessel 2 until it was too late to alter their course.
3.06 Safe speed (Rule 6).
Every vessel shall at all times proceed at a safe speed so that she can take proper and effective action to avoid collision and be stopped within a distance appropriate to the prevailing circumstances and conditions. 
Both vessel 1 and 2 failed to comply with this rule to be able to slow down and avoid collision
 
§ 83.14 Head-on situation (Rule 14).
Unless otherwise agreed, when two power-driven vessels are meeting on reciprocal or nearly reciprocal courses so as to involve risk of collision each shall alter her course to starboard so that each shall pass on the port side of the other.
 
Both parties failed to comply with this rule as vessel 1 was too close to running aground on a point sticking out from the shore line. Vessel 2 was also limited in their ability to go right due to another vessel traveling on the wrong side of the channel. 
 
 
Summation of findings:
After looking at both vessel’s damage and obtaining statements from both parties, it was evident that the operator of vessel 1 became distracted while waving at another boat and due to the speed and terrain was unable to see and maneuver out of the path of vessel 2. Due to vessel 2 having a boat on his starboard side an vessel 1 cutting the point he was unable to effectively maneuver his vessel out of the path of vessel 1.


BARDID: KY-2023-0023
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2023-07-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:46:00
State: KY
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Cumberland
NearestCityTown: BURNSIDE
County: PULASKI
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person struck by propeller
CoordinatesConfidence: C
RedactedNarrative:
On July 14, 2023, at approximately 13:02 hours, Officer responded to a possible two-vessel collision on Lake Cumberland in the South Fork Woodson Bend area. Upon arrival, I made contact with the operator/owner of v2. Operator stated that he was boating on the South Fork River just below the Woodson Bend Dock area. Operator2 stated a Yamaha personal watercraft with passenger cut in front of his vessel causing a collision, Operator2’s vessel impacted the Yamaha personal watercraft operated by Operator1 and his brother. 

Operator2’s vessel impacted the personal watercraft on the starboard side passing over the personal watercraft striking both operator and passenger. Operator2 and passengers aboard his vessel pulled the two injured out of the water and was assisted by their father.  The two injured brothers were transported to the Woodson Bend Dock by Operator2’s vessel where they were met by Somerset/Pulaski County EMS. The Pulaski County Corner responded to the scene where he pronounced them deceased.

I Officer, responded to the scene. I checked Operator2 to see if he was under the influence of alcohol or drugs and he was not. Both parties as well as passengers gave written and verbal statements depicting the same thing. Both stated the boys on the jet ski turned out at nearly a 90 degree turn into the path of the vessel being driven by Operator2. Both parties also stated Operator2 tried to make a turning maneuver to avoid the jet ski but was unable to do so. I had Marine Assist come pickup both vessels so they could be trailered and taken off the water to investigate the accident. Ofc. and I escorted both vessels back to Marine Assist’s facility where we investigated the accident. Measurements of damage and transfer were taken from both vessels. The results from the investigation matched statements given by both parties. 

Estimation of Damage
Vessel 1 sustained serious damage throughout the entirety of the vessel. The vessel was deemed to be a total loss and I am awaiting to here from the owners what the insurance company is going to quote the worth of the vessel.
Vessel 2 sustained minor fiberglass damage as well as paint transfer. A portion of the skeg was damaged as well. 
 
Applicable Laws and Regulations
Code of Federal Regulations 
 
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.
 
Vessel 1 failed to comply with this rule as neither the driver nor passenger saw the path of vessel 2 by pulling directly out in front of them. 
 
3.06 Safe speed (Rule 6).
Every vessel shall at all times proceed at a safe speed so that she can take proper and effective action to avoid collision and be stopped within a distance appropriate to the prevailing circumstances and conditions. 
Both vessel 1 and 2 failed to comply with this rule to be able to slow down and avoid collision
 
Summation of findings
After looking at both vessel’s damage and obtaining statements from both parties, it was evident that the operator of vessel 1 never saw vessel 2 pulling out at nearly a 90 degree angle directly in front of them. The rate of speed and abrupt change of course didn’t allow vessel 2 to avoid colliding with vessel 1.


BARDID: KY-2023-0024
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2023-07-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:45:00
State: KY
NameOfBodyOfWater: Carr Creek Lake
NearestCityTown: LITTCARR
County: KNOTT
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
On 7/1/2023 I, Lt. 1, received a phone call from KSP Dispatch that there was a stranded boater on Carr Creek Lake near the old Carr Creek High School area and that he had his son with him. I was off duty so I checked on the location of our closest officer to the call. All KDFWR officers in Post 13  were working a detail in Leslie County so I decided t o come 10-8 and take care of the call. I went enroute at 2116 and arrived at the Carr Creek Marina at 2147. I called the Operator and asked where his exact location was. He advised they were tied to the bank near the old Carr Creek Hign h School are along Hwy 160. 
     When I arrived at the scene of the vessel, I found Passengers 1, 3, and 2, standing on the bank and Operator still in the boat. The boat was taking on water and was partially submerged. I got the children and Passenger 1 onto my patrol boat and then assisted Operator to exit his boat. As soon as he stepped off of his boat, it began to take on more water and everything except a couple feet of the bow submerged. Operator had tied the vessel bow to a tree so it wouldn't completely sink. I transported Operator, Passengers 1, 2, and 3 back to their vehicle at the Littcarr boat ramp. I advised Operator that we could meet in the morning to see what he needed to do to get the boat out. 
     I asked Operator what had happened to cause the boat to take on water. He said as soon as he launched the boat from the Littcarr boat ramp, they began to see water coming into the vessel. He said as long as the boat was moving, the water only came in slowly, but when the boat stopped, it rushed in. Eventually the motor quit running and they were able to get to the shore. He said it was possible that he had forgotten to put the plug in the boat. 
     The next day, I met Operator, USACE Park Ranger and marina mechanic, to see about removal of the boat. Marina mechanic was able to raise the boat and pump out the water so I could tow it back to the Littcarr ramp. After talking to Marina mechanic, he advised that the damage could be as high as $5,000 due to all of the electrical equipment being damaged but he wouldn't know for sure until he started working on it. 


-LT. 1


BARDID: KY-2023-0025
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-31 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:15:00
State: KY
NameOfBodyOfWater: KY LAKE
NearestCityTown: GILBERTSVILLE
County: MARSHALL
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Unknown
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On 07/31/23 at approximately 1:15 PM, I was notified about a boat accident at Kentucky Dam Marina. The call was for a non-injury accident involving two vessels. Upon arrival at the marina and speaking to witnesses, the crash happened between two rental vessels, one of which was un-occupied. Witnesses that worked for the marina stated the operator was backing the boat from the slip and put the vessel in forward gear too far and ran the vessel into the back of another rental vessel. When speaking to the operator she stated the kill switch had wrapped around the steering wheel when turning causing the boat to shut off in forward motion which gave her no control over the vessel. There were no injuries in the course of this accident.  The un-occupied vessel sustained damage to the Honda outboard motor. The damage consisted of cosmetic issues along with breaking the trim tab and bending the assembly causing the vessel to have no steering. The vessel that was being operated sustained minimal damage. 


BARDID: KY-2023-0026
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-06-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:30:00
State: KY
NameOfBodyOfWater: HERRINGTON LAKE
NearestCityTown: BURGIN
County: MERCER
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Unknown
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
AccidentCause3: Restricted vision
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On June 24, 2023, at approximately 2044 hrs., Officer 2 and Officer 1 were notified by Kentucky State Police Post 7 - Richmond of a boating incident with injury on Herrington Lake in Mercer County near Sunrise Shores Road and Lakeview Point Road (Harrodsburg, Ky.). 

At approximately 2030 hours Operator and Witness 2 were operating personal watercrafts heading south on Herrington Lake. With Witness 2 toward the center of the lake and Operator to his right, Operator, standing on the personal watercraft, veered to the right toward the bank. Operator attempted to navigate under a walkway connecting a dock to land when he came into contact with a cable below the walkway. Operator was thrown from the personal watercraft into the water when the cable made contact with his chest and upper arms before moving up to his neck and ejecting him. 

Witness 2 stated he observed Operator veering to the right and was unsure of Operator's intentions. Witness 2 looked away momentarily and then back toward Operator just in time to witness Operator being ejected from the personal watercraft into the water by the cable. 

Operator was wearing the engine cut-off switch and the personal watercraft was disabled once Operator was ejected. The personal watercraft floated forward but did not make contact with anything. The dock that the cable was connected to is owned by Dock Owner.

A nearby female, Witness 1, was on the bank and heard a noise she didn't recognize. When she turned around Witness 1 observed Operator in the water and assisted him to the bank. The incident was reported to Kentucky State Police Post 7 - Richmond at 2036 hrs. Rescue services arrived on scene at 2043 hrs., and at 2102 hrs. Bluegrass 911 was advised Operator was being transported to Ephraim McDowell Regional Medical Center in Danville, Ky. 

Officer 3 was notified at 2041 hrs. and Ofcs. 1 and 2 at 2046 hrs. Ofcs. 2 and 1 arrived on scene at 2126 hrs. and were unable to locate the jet ski or any witnesses until making contact with Witness 1 shortly after arriving on scene. 

The three officers met at Ephraim McDowell and were able to speak with Operator in the hospital room with his wife present. Ofc. 1 read Miranda Rights to Operator and asked Operator if he would answer some questions. Operator stated that he would answer some, but probably not all of the questions asked. Ofc. 1 explained the process of doing a boat accident report and then asked Operator what happened. When asked if he had consumed any alcoholic beverages that day, Operator declined to answer. 

Due to Operator's condition at the time, Ofc. 1 stated he would not collect all the information needed for the report and that Ofc. 1 would make contact later in the week to gather the remainder of information necessary to complete the report. 

Prior to leaving the hospital, Ofc. 1 checked with the medical staff at Ephraim McDowell as to when Operator might be released and was advised Operator would be transferred to the University of Kentucky Trauma Center that night.  
On Sunday, June 25 at approximately 1627 hrs., Ofc. 1 went back to the site and photographed the cables, dock and walkway. At that time, Ofc. 1 observed some fraying to the cable on the north side, but both cables were intact. 

Ofc. 1 contacted the UK Trauma Center Monday, June 26 in the afternoon to get an update on Operator's status and was advised he had not been released yet. 

On Friday, June 30, Ofc. 1 contacted Operator about meeting to gather the remainder of the information and was told Operator was available that evening at his residence. Upon making contact with Operator, Operator stated he would not provide the name and contact information for the owner of the personal watercraft, but Ofc. 1 could leave his contact information and Operator would pass it on to the owner. 
While collecting information for the report, Operator was asked again if he had any alcohol in his system the day of the incident and again he refused to answer the question. 

Operator had bruising to both upper arms as well as his neck. He stated he also sustained whiplash like symptoms.

On Monday, July 3, Operator sent a text message to Ofc. 1 with the contact information for the jet ski owner.

Upon a follow-up conversation with Dock Owner on July 12, Dock Owner stated a neighbor advised him on Monday, June 26 that he observed the north side cable had snapped and needed to be repaired. Ofc. 1 was unable to say with certainty that the cable snapped due to this incident as the cable was photographed still intact on June 25.  
 - OFFICER 1


BARDID: KY-2023-0027
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-08-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:30:00
State: KY
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE HERRINGTON
NearestCityTown: BURGIN
County: MERCER
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
AccidentCause3: Improper lookout
AccidentEvent1: Collision with floating object
RedactedNarrative:
On August 7, 2023, at approximately 1558 hrs. I, Officer 1 was notified by Sgt. 2 of a boat incident on Herrington Lake in Mercer County. Upon arrival at Pandora Marina, I made contact with the marina owner. Marina Owner stated one of the marina's rental pontoons was involved in an incident earlier in the day. 

Operator, Passenger 2 and Passenger 1 rented a pontoon (vessel 1) from Pandora Marina and put on the water at approximately 1030 hrs.

Operator advised that at approximately 1330 hrs. she was operating the vessel with the throttle at the full forward position traveling south on the right side of the lake toward Sunset Marina. Operator said a boat to their left was traveling north. All three occupants of vessel 1 looked over at it and then Operator heard Passenger 2 say her name to get her attention. When she turned back, she observed the dock and attempted to steer away from it. Operator was unable to avoid the dock and ramped the right side of the vessel over the corner of the dock. As she attempted to avoid the dock, the back end of the vessel, including the motor also ramped over the corner of the dock.

After impact, Operator was shaken and wasn't completely sure if they hit the dock or a log in the lake. She turned the vessel around to observe for any damage to the boat or dock and noticed a work boat nearby. She realized it was a dock she hit and stated she probably should have taken photos but didn't think of it. Operator also stated she would have gone up to let the dock owner know, but it didn't appear as though anyone was home. 

Witness 1 and Witness 2 were traveling north on a work boat in the area at the time of the incident. They both advised they did not witness vessel 1 hit the dock but heard a loud noise. When they looked around, they saw vessel 1 driving away from the bank and toward them. Both Witnesses 1 and 2 stated the occupants on vessel 1 asked them if they saw anything, and both Witnesses 1 and 2 said they didn't see anything but heard a loud noise. Witnesses 1 and 2 then continued up the lake. On their way back to Pandora Marina later that day, Witnesses 1 and 2 observed for any damage in that area and noticed damage to a dock. 

Operator advised after hitting the dock they then continued south on the lake past Pandora Marina to swim in a cove before returning the pontoon to the marina at approximately 1600 hrs. Once back at the marina, Marina Owner showed them photos of the dock they hit that were taken by Witnesses 1 and 2 on the work boat. 

When asked if she had consumed any alcoholic beverages that day, Operator stated she had not and that she does not drink. Passengers 2 and 1 both stated they had consumed some alcohol that day but did not see Operator drink any alcoholic beverages. Passengers 2 and 1 stated they did not drive the boat that day. 

All three individuals on the vessel were uninjured and did not require any medical attention. 

The dock, at Harrodsburg, KY 40330, is owned by Dock Owner. Ofc. 1 made contact with Dock Owner and advised him of the incident. Dock Owner planned to be at Herrington Lake the following weekend to observe for further damage.  

Ofc. 1 followed up with Marina Owner and Dock Owner to obtain estimates to repair the damage to the pontoon and dock. Those estimates totaled $13,694.97 ($9456.72 for the pontoon and $4238.25 for the dock).
Applicable Laws and Regulations
Code of Federal Regulations

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.
The vessel failed to comply with this rule as neither the operator nor the two passengers saw the dock until it was too late. 
83.06 Safe speed (Rule 6)
Every vessel shall at all times proceed at a safe speed so that she can take proper and effective action to avoid collision and be stopped within a distance appropriate to the prevailing circumstances and conditions.
Vessel 1 failed to comply with this rule to be able to slow down and avoid collision.


BARDID: KY-2023-0028
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-08-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:52:00
State: KY
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE CUMBERLAND
NearestCityTown: BURNSIDE
County: Pulaski
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On August 10th 2023 at 17:52 hours, I received a call from KSP Post 11 of a possible injury accident on Lake Cumberland involving a personal watercraft (PWC). Upon my arrival located a red and silver PWC Sea Doo Bombardier floating in the water next to the bank. The operator was laying approximately fifty feet up on the rock bank next to the wood line with a injury to his left leg. Somerset/Pulaski EMS arrived on scene and transported the subject to the Burnside Fire Department. Operator was air evacuated to the University Kentucky Hospital. 

On August 14, 2023 I, spoke with Operator via telephone and he stated the following:

 I was out on the lake that day on the jet ski and ridding pretty close to the wall going pretty fast and hit a log that I can remember ending up on the bank when I woke up.


BARDID: KY-2023-0029
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-09-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:30:00
State: KY
NameOfBodyOfWater: Ohio River
NearestCityTown: PETERSBURG
County: BOONE
WaterConditions: Unknown
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person struck by vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Around 2147, I received a call from Officer 2, that there was a two-vessel boat accident on The Ohio River near Petersburg. I arrived before Officer 2 and began to interview the witnesses and operators. According to Vessel 2 operator, V2 Operator, he was in neutral with the motor running. (Facing up River). There were 9 passengers in total on his vessel and they were watching a nearby fireworks show. 

The operator of Vessel 1 is V1 Operator. V1 Operator was operating a Four Winns run-a-about style boat behind V2 Operator's pontoon boat, going the same direction (Occupied 8 times). According to V1 Operator, he was underway and said he was watching the fireworks while he was in operation. V1 Operator did not see V2 Operator and collided with his pontoon boat, striking it on the rear starboard side. A passenger of Vessel 1 told V1 Operator that there was a boat in front of him, so V1 Operator pulled back the throttle and turned right when the collision occured. R

ight before the impact V2 Operator said that he "laid into it" on the throttle, to try to avoid the collision as well. V1 Operator and his occupants, claimed that Vessel 2 did not have their navigational lights on and he did not see Vessel 2. At the time of the collision, V2 Injured was ejected from Vessel 2 and may have been struck by Vessel 1 while he was in the water. Injured said that when he was in the water, he felt something hit him, but he did not know what it was.

After the collsion both vessels beached their boats on the Kentucky side of the river where they remained until my arrival. V2 Operator claims his navigation lights were on and a witness from the bank (Witness), claimed she saw Vessel 2's lights on as well. I performed HGN on both operators and observed nystagmus in V1 Operator's eyes. I instructed Officer 2 to perform field sobriety on him while I documented and investigated the boat accident. After the standardized seated field sobriety tests, Officer 2 placed V1 Operator under arrest for BUI. V2 Injured, who was the juvenile that was ejected, had about a 6 inch cut on his back. The next day, the father of V2 Injured, V2 Passenger 8 said he felt pain in his neck as well. There was significant damage to Vessel 2 on the rear starboard side. Damage to Vessel 1 includes long scratches along the port side of the boat and a broken prop. During the investigation, I asked V2 Operator to turn on his Navigation Lights, to see if they were working. His 360 degree white lights worked along with his green starboard light. His red port light did not come on. The light that would have been visible to Vessel 1, would have been the white 360 degree light.

-


BARDID: KY-2023-0030
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-09-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 08:34:00
State: KY
NameOfBodyOfWater: Green River Lake
NearestCityTown: Campbellsville
County: TAYLOR
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Failure to vent
AccidentEvent1: Carbon monoxide exposure
RedactedNarrative:
On September 3rd, 2023, at 08:34 EDT Campbellsville 911 received a call, who stated her family had symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning. At the time of the call the family had already exited their houseboat near Eagle Cove and were headed back to the GRL State Park by pontoon. Campbellsville Fire Rescue arrived on scene at 08:49 EDT. There was a total of nine people, (6 adults and 3 juveniles), who had stayed on the houseboat, Vessel #1, overnight with a generator running. All nine passengers had symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning, and two of the passengers had passed out. All nine passengers went to Taylor Regional Hospital, some of the individuals went by EMS and others went by personal vehicle. 

According to witness statements almost everyone on the boat went to sleep between 11:30 PM and 12 AM. According to witness statements some passengers had symptoms throughout the night causing them to get up and walk outside on the front deck before going back inside to sleep. The juveniles stated that they had symptoms that made them feel nauseous and restless throughout the night. 

One person stated that she had woke up and was heading to the bathroom when she passed out and hit her head on a shelf. This caused the rest of the passengers of the houseboat to get up and realize they all had symptoms of what they suspected to be Carbon Monoxide poisoning. Shortly after that realization everyone loaded on to the pontoon to meet EMS. Passengers stated that there were no windows open or doors throughout the night and that there was no wind circulating through the boat. 

Currently the cause of the carbon monoxide exposer is unknown, but the generator is the suspected source. According to the houseboat owner the houseboat was not equipped with carbon monoxide detectors.

*All passengers were treated at Taylor Regional Hospital and released. 
*Case Number: 7411-22327


BARDID: KY-2023-0031
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2023-09-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:30:00
State: KY
NameOfBodyOfWater: NOLIN RIVER LAKE
NearestCityTown: CUB RUN
County: EDMONSON
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Unseen water hazard
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
On September 4th, 2023, at approximately 1430 Central time, I, Conservation Officer 1 was patrolling Nolin River Lake when I observed a sinking boat near the water’s edge. When I first observed the vessel there was already a crew of people attempting to pump water from the vessel. Despite their efforts water was still coming in at a rapid pace and was nearly overtop the motor. 
I contacted the owner operator of Indiana who stated he was operating his 2019 Catalyst Mercruiser near Long Fall Creek when his vessel impacted something underneath the water’s surface. According to witness statements the vessel was going about 10 MPH when the impact occurred and immediately after impact the boat started taking on water.
I interviewed other witnesses on the scene who were passengers at the time of the incident (Passenger 2 and Passenger 1) their statements were consistent with what Operator had stated. One witness/passenger had already left the scene upon my arrival (Passenger 3).
On September 7th I contacted Operator by phone to check on the damage to the vessel, he stated that there was a two foot by six-inch hole in the bottom of his vessel and the motor was completely ruined because of water submersion. 
*The vessel is expected to be a total loss the registration reciept shows the accessed value of the vessel to be $57,059.


BARDID: KY-2023-0032
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-09-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:02:00
State: KY
NameOfBodyOfWater: NOLIN RIVER LAKE
NearestCityTown: BROWNSVILLE
County: EDMONSON
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
AccidentCause2: Equipment failure
EquipmentFailure: Auxiliary
OtherEquipmentFailure: tow rope
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
RedactedNarrative:
On September 4, 2023 at roughly 16:02 CST, Conservation Officer 1 and Conservation Officer 2 was dispatched to the Moutardier Boat ramp on Nolin River Lake for a boating incident. Edmonson County dispatch advised they had a boating accident on Nolin River Lake, in front of the boat ramp of Moutardier, with a female who was going in and out of consciousness.
	
	Once on scene, Edmonson County EMS already transported the injured female (Injured) we located Edmonson County Sheriffs Deputy who provided information on the injured female and directed us to the operator of the vessel who was located at the Moutardier boat ramp.
	
	Operator was operating the vessel on Nolin River Lake, and was pulling Injured, and two other occupants (Passenger 4 and Passenger 2) on a tube. Operator stated he made a turn, causing the tube to strike a wave, which caused the tow rope to break. Injured hit her head against her sister's head (Passenger 2), causing Injured to go in and out of consciousness. Once Operator knew that Injured was having issues, he went and picked up the three individuals from the tube and proceeded to the Moutardier boat ramp to call for help.

Injured does not remember anything from the event. 

Injured was transported to Bowling Green Medical Center for treatment and was released the same day.

Voluntary Statements attached.


BARDID: KY-2023-0033
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-09-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 02:30:00
State: KY
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE CUMBERLAND
County: WAYNE
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Poor
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
RedactedNarrative:
On September 10 2023 at approximately 0245 I was phoned by Marine Assist, a tow/salvage company on Lake Cumberland, and told of a grounding event that had occurred a few minutes prior.  The incident had occurred near Ramsey Point on Lake Cumberland located in Wayne County.  I responded from my home, utilizing a patrol boat moored nearby at Camp Earl Wallace.  Upon my arrival I found a 21 foot Larson open bow motorboat sitting completely out of the water on the shoreline.  I observed where the vessel had left the water, continued in a straight line up the bank and came to rest on the muddy bank.  I also observed footprints located all around the vessel as well as several round logs that were placed under the vessel.  
Two males were sitting in the vessel.  One identified himself as the owner/operator of the vessel (Operator) and the other was a passenger.  Neither were injured and Operator had phoned Marine Assist to have his vessel placed back on the water.  The vessel had suffered some damage to the hull which appeared to consist of several scratches and gouges through the gelcoat and also suffered some scratching to the lower unit of the vessel.  
Operator stated he had been travelling from State Dock Marina back to Lee's Ford Marina when he had encountered what he believed to be another vessel in the area.  He stated he had maneuvered to his starboard to avoid the other vessel.  He stated that he had been travelling around twenty-five miles per hour, just on plane when this occurred.  Just after maneuvering starboard he recalled seeing the shoreline and as he attempted to maneuver back to port he ran aground.  Once on the shoreline, Operator and passenger has gathered driftwood and placed under the vessel turning it around from it's resting position.  They were attempting to roll the vessel back into the water but have given up prior to phoning Marine Assist for assistance.  
I observed the odor of alcoholic beverages in and around the vessel.  While speaking with the occupants, they both admitted to consuming alcoholic beverages the evening prior.  Operator stated his last drink had been around 2100 hours the previous evening.  He consented to SFSTs.  I administered HGN and a PBT to Operator.  Neither showed signs of impairment.  Passenger as did not appear to be under the influence at the time I encountered him.  The odor I noticed had came from the spilled contents of the vessel due to the grounding and shifting of trash/coolers/etc.  
Operator had purchased the vessel only a few weeks prior and had not as of yet switched the registration numbers on the vessel.  It is currently registered in his name.  The HIN number included in this report does match the number assigned to the same make/model and is located on his current registration for the vessel.   
Damage Assessment
Vessel 1 suffered scratching and gouging to the hull for approximately 14 square feet--$2100.00
Vessel 1 suffered scratches to the drive from impacting the shoreline--$500.00
Summation of Findings

Related Rules and Regulations 
Code of Federal Regulations
33CFR 83.05 Rule 5, Look-out
Every vessel shall at all times maintain a proper look-out by sight and hearing as well as by all available means appropriate in the prevailing circumstances and conditions so as to make a full appraisal of the situation and of the risk of collision.

33CFR 83.06 Rule 6, Safe Speed
Every vessel shall at all times proceed at a safe speed so that she can take proper and effective action to avoid collision and be stopped within a distance appropriate to the prevailing circumstances and conditions.

Kentucky Revised Statues
235.240 Prohibition of operation of boat negligently or while intoxicated or drugged -- Consent to test for alcohol or drugs -- Elements of operation under influence of alcohol or other substance. 
(1) A person shall not operate any motorboat or vessel, or manipulate any water skis, surfboard, or similar device, in a reckless or negligent manner so as to endanger the life or property of any person.
Summation of Findings

The operator of Vessel 1 failed to designate a lookout or serve as lookout.  He stated he had very little experience operating after sunset.  Hazard buoys are present in the area Vessel 1 struck the shoreline and 
may have been mistaken as being the vessel maneuvered around.  Regardless, speed was not slackened nor course changed in a large enough increment to avoid the event as required with limited visibility while operating on plane in an unfamiliar area.


BARDID: KY-2023-0034
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-09-13 00:00:00
State: KY
NameOfBodyOfWater: PRIVATE PROPERTY FARM POND 245
NearestCityTown: GREENSBURG
County: GREEN
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
RedactedNarrative:
On September 13, 2023, I, Conservation Officer, and Conservation Officer Sgt. responded to a drowning in a farm pond on private property. Upon arrival I observed Green County Rescue Team retrieving the body from the water. There were no available witnesses to the incident. In the water near the body, I observed an overturned flat bottom aluminum Jon boat. Around the bank of the pond, I located a trot line tied across the pond along with a bucket of live bait as well as an empty beer can. 

According to witness statements, Subject1 had spoken to Victim at about 0930-1000 hours this date. Victim had asked her to purchase some groceries and nightcrawlers for him. Subject1 stated she had returned to Victim's residence with the items at around 1430-1500 hours but was unable to locate Victim at that time, so she returned to her residence. She stated she and subject2 returned just after dark to try to locate Victim because they did not see any lights on inside his residence. She stated they began to look for Victim and located him in the pond at approximately 2000 hours and immediately contacted 911. According to his family who were on scene, Victim was a heavy drinker, had health issues and was unable to swim. 

Photos were taken of the scene. These photos show that the boat was overturned and about 5 feet from the pond bank. The body of Victim can be observed floating face down in the water at the edge of the boat on the opposite side of the boat from the pond bank. Photos were also taken of Victim when he had been removed from the water. There were no obvious signs of trauma or injury to the body. Photos were taken of the body and will be submitted with this report. 

Upon speaking with Witness 1, he stated Victim had asked his wife, Subject1, to pick him up some groceries at about 0930-1000 on September 13, 2023. He stated she went back to his residence at about 1600 hours to deliver the groceries but did not find anyone. He stated he arrived at his residence at about 1700 hours and began to look for Victim. He stated he attempted to call his phone but did not get an answer. He stated at about 2000 hours he located Victim's car. He stated at about 2030 hours he located Victim's body floating in the pond. He stated Victim was floating face down in the water about 5-6 feet from the bank. 

Neither knew what time Victim had gone to the pond. They both stated Victim was a heavy alcohol user and had many existing health issues. 

On Thursday, September 14, 2023, I returned to the scene to further document the scene. Upon observing the boat, it was a 10' long, 36" wide aluminum flat bottom Jon boat. The boat was an older boat with very little information on it. There was a metal tag affixed to the stern that provided a Serial Number.There was no other information (Make, Model, Year of Manufacture, etc.) available from the metal tag.  There was also a sticker attached to the outside of the stern that appeared to be a registration sticker from Ohio for the year 1970, however there was no other information on the sticker (HIN, Registration Number, etc.) I took photos of the boat to be submitted with this report. 

Autopsy and toxicology reports are pending at the time of this report.


BARDID: KY-2023-0035
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2023-09-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:20:00
State: KY
NameOfBodyOfWater: cumberland river
NearestCityTown: BURNSIDE
County: PULASKI
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Unseen water hazard
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent3: Sinking
RedactedNarrative:
On September 2, 2023, at around 12:48 hours, I responded to a non-injury boating accident call on the Cumberland River. Upon arrival I made contact with the owner/operator that explained to me that he was cruisng on plane at approximately 40mph down the Cumberland River from Buck Creek just above the Power Plant Energy Company when one or both of his out drives hit an object under the water surface that he cound not see. The vessel immedietly started to take on water from the rear aft engine compartment. The vessel was towed back to Burnside Island Ramp by Marine Assist were the vessel sunk completely and was a total loss . No one was injured on the vessel and only one other person was onboard as a passenger. No drugs or alcohol was suspected.

-OFFICER


BARDID: KY-2023-0036
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-09-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:00:00
State: KY
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE CUMBERLAND FISHING CREEK
NearestCityTown: SOMERSET
County: PULASKI
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
On 09/04/2023 I was dispatched to a non-injury accident involving a vessel at the mouth of Fishing Creek. KSP Post 11 notified me that Marine Assist of Somerset called, stating that a boat was sinking and approximately six people were on board. Marine Assist also stated that everyone was safe and he was towing the boat back to Fishing Creek recreational area. Upon my arrival, I observed Lieutenant 2 with 7 people on board his vessel and Marine Assist towing the pontoon with 2 subjects on board. The owner/operator of the 1986 Riviera Pontoon, Operator, stated that a large vessel had passed them on their starboard side, causing a large wake to strike the side of their boat, almost tipping it on its side. Operator stated that once he corrected the boat and came around the corner of the point, he struck the vessel's wake again, causing his vessel to submerge completely. The vessel eventually resubmerged in its upright position with everyone on board. The vessel sustained minor damage to the front starboard seat and armrest. The vessel motor was completely submerged while running and shut off. Operator stated the motor would not turn over when trying to restart and appeared to be vapor locked. The occupants did not report any injuries and stated that all occupants were wearing life jackets at the time.                          Additional Occupants: Passenger 8, Passenger 7, Passenger 6, Passenger 4, Passenger 3, Passenger 2.

-OFFICER 1


BARDID: KY-2023-0037
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-09-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:15:00
State: KY
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Cumberland
NearestCityTown: MONTICELLO
County: WAYNE
WaterConditions: Calm
CongestedWaters: Y
Wind: Light
Visibility: Unknown
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Drug
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause3: Congested waters
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On September 7th, 2023, at approximately 17:05, I, Officer 1, was waved down by a vessel stating a rental houseboat had hit 3 boats tied up in Jack’s Branch on Lake Cumberland. I made contact with vessel 2 owner (V2 Owner) he stated State Dock Rental 1001 was pulling into the cove and it was apparent the operator didn’t know what he was doing due to the wind and him being so close to all the vessel’s moored in the cove. It was at that time that the starboard rear of the rental made contact with his vessel. Vessel 2. Vessel 1 then continued to strike another houseboat, vessel 3 owned by, V3 Owner. He was also on the back of his boat and witnessed vessel 1 and gave the same statement as V2 Owner. As Vessel 1 was pulling away they came into contact with Vessel 4. Vessel 4 owned by V4 Owner. He was also on the back of the houseboats during the collision and had a statement like the other two boat owners. I was able to locate Vessel 1 as they were still underway trying to get parked. I made contact with the operator of Vessel 1, V1 Operator. V1 Operator stated he was unaware it was as windy as it was and said he didn’t think it would be as busy with boats everywhere like there were when he entered the cove. Upon contact I could smell the odor of Marijuana coming off his person. I asked V1 Operator if he had smoked Marijuana today, he stated he had. I conducted SFST’s at which time it was apparent V1 Operator was under the influence. V1 Operator provided me with the Marijuana he had with him, I placed him under arrest for BUI as well as possession of Marijuana. I then transported him to Wayne County Hospital, where he refused a blood draw. I then transported him to the Wayne County Detention center. 
Pictures were taken by Officer 1 at the scene.


BARDID: KY-2023-0038
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-09-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:30:00
State: KY
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Cumberland
NearestCityTown: MONTICELLO
County: WAYNE
WaterConditions: Unknown
Wind: Light
Visibility: Unknown
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
RedactedNarrative:
On 09-08-2023 at approximately 2120 hours, I observed the vessel traveling North on the Cumberland River in front of Camp Earl Wallace. The vessel stopped as it appeared to be having engine troubles and began traveling in a Northbound direction shortly after. Within a few minutes, I could see and hear the vessel strike Ramsey Point. Upon my arrival, the vessel was completely out of the water and resting on dry ground. None of the occupants appeared to have injuries and no requests for EMS were made. None of the occupants were wearing a life jacket at the time of the incident and no alcohol or drug use is suspected.


BARDID: KY-2023-0039
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2023-10-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:00:00
State: KY
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Cumberland
NearestCityTown: JAMESTOWN
County: RUSSELL
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentCause3: Excessive speed
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
RedactedNarrative:
On October 7th, at approximately 08:00, I, officer 1 and Sergeant 2, received a call of a boat accident on Lake Cumberland near Cemetery Island. Upon arrival I made contact with Owner 1 a half owner of the vessel, who was there removing personal items from the vessel. Owner 1 stated that his father, Operator, the other half owner and Operator's girlfriend were the two occupants on the vessel when it was grounded and both had already returned home with only a couple scratches. Owner 1 also stated he was not sure what had happened, but stated Operator had told him the boats radar went out and he did not see the island in front of him before it was too late. Owner 1 then stated he thought Operator had grounded it around 20:00 that night.

I officer 1 called Operator and got his statement. Operator stated he and his girlfriend had took the boat down to Rowena marina to have dinner and advised me on the way down to Rowena marina his radar blinked off, but then came back on.
 Operator stated at dinner he did drink a beer with his meal. He also advised me they went to the dam to watch the sunset after dinner and on the way back to State Dock to put the boat up, his radar stopped working and before he knew it or even had time to stop the vessel he had ran aground on the island.

Estimation of Damage
The Vessel sustained serious damage throughout the entirety of the vessel, and as of now the vessel has been deemed to be a total loss. I am awaiting to here from the owners of what the insurance company is going to quote the value of the vessel to be.
 
Applicable Laws and Regulations
Code of Federal Regulations 
 
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.
 
The operator of the vessel failed to comply with this rule as neither operator nor passenger saw the island in front of them before grounding the vessel.
 
3.06 Safe speed (Rule 6).
Every vessel shall at all times proceed at a safe speed so that she can take proper and effective action to avoid collision and be stopped within a distance appropriate to the prevailing circumstances and conditions. 
The vessel failed to comply with this rule, and was unable to slow down and avoid collision
 
Summation of findings
After looking at the vessel damage and talking with the driver, it was clear he failed to have a proper lookout and never saw the island until it was to late, also, the rate of speed didn’t allow the driver to correct the prevailing circumstances and avoid colliding with the island and running his vessel aground.


BARDID: KY-2023-0041
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-10-07 00:00:00
State: KY
NameOfBodyOfWater: PAINTSVILLE LAKE
NearestCityTown: PAINTSVILLE
County: JOHNSON
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
AccidentCause2: Weather
MachineryFailure: Engine
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
RedactedNarrative:
On 10/8/2023 I was notified of a houseboat that had struck a kayak launch dock on Paintsville Lake. Upon arrival I was notified by operator the owner of the vessel that his 1978 Sumerset Cruiser houseboat was unloading from truck and trailer into Paintsville Lake. 

Upon being launched into the water the motor stopped working just inside the no wake buoys. Upon losing control of the vessel with no motor control the vessel was taken by wind into the shallow water causing it to collide with the kayak launch dock. 

He stated there was no damage to his vessel. The State Park staff stated the estimated damage to the kayak launch dock was $5,000 to fix structural damage and resetting of the dock


BARDID: KY-2023-0042
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2023-11-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:19:00
State: KY
NameOfBodyOfWater: Taylorsville Lake
NearestCityTown: Taylorsville
County: SPENCER
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Restricted vision
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent3: Grounding
RedactedNarrative:
FROM PRELIMINARY REPORT: 

On the evening of 11/13/2023, at approximately 20:15 EST, Officer 1 was called by KSP Post 12 regarding a boat accident on Taylorsville Lake, close to the Chowning boat ramp. When Officer 1 initially received the call, crews were still searching for a subject and the accident. While enroute, Officer 1 was notified the subject had been found and was being checked out by Spencer Co EMS at the boat ramp. Upon arrival Officer 1 interviewed Operator, as to what took place on the lake this evening. Operator stated he had been fishing and was returning to Chowning when he had hit a stump in the water and was ejected from the vessel. Operator was able to recover from being ejected and quickly swam to another stump and held on, until his vessel hit another stump in the water and came to rest. Operator then swam to his vessel and attempted to start it, to which it failed to throttle up. Operator deployed his trolling motor into high gear and began trolling towards a light he saw on the ridge and beached the boat to walk up to the residence. He then went to the top of the ridge and contacted a residence where EMS and fire were called with his location. Operator was then brought down to the boat ramp and checked out by EMS; he was medically cleared with the only symptoms being mild hypothermia. Operator was able to leave in his vehicle on his own accord. The boat was unable to be recovered at this point, due to having taken in too much water at this point. 

11-15-2023
Officer 2 and I followed up on this investigation by contacting Operator and collecting photographs of the vessel and obtaining the call reports for the EMS run. We were informed that Operator's boat was retrieved from Taylorsville Lake by Purchaser who then purchased the boat for parts. Upon arrival at Purchaser's residence to take photos of the vessel, the outboard motor was already detached. The hull had visible scrapes and indentations consistent with collision damage on both port and starboard. The underside of the hull had a large hole on the portside underbody and indentation on port and starboard damage consistent with hitting a submerged object. The port side stern corner had visible indentation damage and the outboard motor lower unit had scrapes, chipped paint and was missing three propeller blades that appeared to be broken off. The new owner of the vessel Purchaser stated that he will use to vessel for spare parts.

-OFFICER 3


BARDID: KY-2023-0043
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-10-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:55:00
State: KY
NameOfBodyOfWater: BIG SOUTH FORK CREEK
NearestCityTown: VERONA
County: BOONE/GALLATIN
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Unknown
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
AccidentCause2: Sharp turn
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
RedactedNarrative:
10/26/2023 dispatched approximately 1600hrs: I received a call from Sgt., advising there was a possible boat accident with injuries near the Gallatin/Boone County line on Big South Fork Creek. Gallatin County Dispatch received the initial 911 call. Gallatin County Sheriff was on scene. I contacted Sheriff and he advised that three subjects had been ejected from their boat, into the creek. Two males had initially ended up in the water and a woman had been trapped under the boat for possibly ten to fifteen minutes. The female victim, 61-year-old was transported to St. Elizabeth's Hospital in Florence.  The two males refused treatment and were released from the scene. 

1706 hrs 620 South Fork Road: I arrived at the location of the boat accident and met Sheriff. Sheriff took me to the accident scene and provided me with identifying information of the individuals involved.  At this time I learned of a bystander, who had jumped into the water to assist the distressed boaters. Bystander had been working on his property when he heard a loud boat coming up the creek.  He thought from the sounds they were going too fast for the area.  

Bystander then thought he heard the boat slow down and then it got quiet.  He ran to the creek where he observed the boat overturned in the creek. Two men were outside the boat and told him a woman was still under the capsized boat. Bystander said he  yelled for someone to call 911 and jumped into the creek to try to help the men roll the boat over to get her out.  They were unsuccessful.  Bystander stated he suspected it was ten to fifteen minutes before they were able to pull Victim out from under the boat. 

Bystander believed she was caught on something but could not be sure. Bystander said when they pulled her out, a blue personal floatation device (PFD) popped out with her.  According to the two males on the boat, she had been wearing that PFD while on the boat.  Bystander and the men pulled her onto the overturned boat and attempted CPR. Bystander said she had thrown up water twice but they couldn't get her to breathe. Gallatin County EMS had then arrived on scene and helped get the woman and men out of the creek. Bystander stated the water was extremely cold. 

Sheriff stated Verona EMS director had taken the two men back to Boone's Landing for them to pick up their truck and trailer. Sheriff also said the men were too distressed to drive, so the EMS director took the men to drop off the trailer and truck. They believe both men were going to St. Elizabeth's to be with the victim. Sheriff stated he had not smelled any odor of alcoholic beverage from their persons and did not believe either of them to be under the influence. I attempted to call both men in the accident to try to meet up with them.

1830 hrs St. Elizabeth's Hospital Florence, KY Sgt. and I arrived at the Hospital to interview the boat operator, Operator, and the male passenger, Ralph Occupant. Operator and Occupant were in separate rooms and Occupant was being checked for signs of hypothermia. The female was in the ICU wing of the hospital. Sgt. interviewed Occupant while I stepped out and interviewed Operator. 

Operator said that the three wanted to take one last ride in his air boat this year. Victim was visiting and wanted to visit the site of a sunken houseboat on Big South Fork Creek. The three launched at Boone's Landing around 1pm. 

Victim was sitting next to Operator and Occupant was in the seat in front of them. The weather at the time was clear and the water was calm. Operator said they had headed up Big South Fork Creek from Big Boone Bone Creek, when he believed he saw a log in the creek. 

Operator said he slowed down and started to make a right hand turn when the next thing he knew he was in the water. Operator said he saw Occupant and was yelling at him trying to figure out where Victim was. They discovered she was trapped under the boat. A bystander then jumped in and tried to help them get her out. Operator said she was under for a long time, and all they could do was grab her leg, she seemed to be caught on something. When they got her out they tried to perform CPR until EMS arrived.  Operator said Victim was wearing a lifejacket. Operator also had mentioned he was not familiar with that part of the creek. 

Sgt. interviewed Occupant. Sgt. had informed me that Occupant was in the front seat and Operator was in the back driving with Victim in the backseat next to him. They were going up the creek when Operator slowed down and made a turn. Occupant thinks what happened was the wake from slowing the boat down and the turn caused the water to come over the low gunwale causing the boat to become swamped and then rolled. Family members of Operator and Occupant were at the hospital and informed us Victim was taken to the ICU. Her family had been notified and were on their way to the hospital.  At that time Victim was stated to have had a pulse but minimal brain activity.

10/27/2023 0047hrs: The air boat was recovered and pictures were taken. The arm rest of the seat where Victim had been seated was broken. Sgt. and I then left the scene. Mosby's Towing took the boat to their lot in Campbellsburg, KY. 

10/27/2023 Photographs were taken at Mosby's towing lot. I spoke with Operator and he had stated that he had put a new motor on the airboat and it had only been out an estimated six hours. Operator also stated the armrest in the backseat where victim was sitting was not broken prior to the accident. I also returned Operators cell phone that was located in the airboat. 

11/10/2023 took the vessel to be weighed at the weigh station in Pendleton. The vessel weighed 2760lbs.

The report indicated no non-fatal injuries.  The subjects travelled to the hospital to be with the victim.


BARDID: KY-2023-0044
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-08-19 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:21:00
State: KY
NameOfBodyOfWater: ohio river
NearestCityTown: owensboro
County: daviess
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Person departed vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
RedactedNarrative:
According to Sgt., witnesses claimed the injured subject was operating an older, Cobalt runabout (1977) when he stopped the boat and entered the water from the back of the boat. They all then claimed that the wake from a barge caused him to make contact with the propeller causing serious injuries to his legs. 

One of the passengers made a makeshift tourniquet and put it on the worse leg. Examination of the boat revealed it was not equipped with a kill switch lanyard. According to the OPD report, all passengers had been consuming alcohol.

A sober driver was sent to the scene to take possession of the boat and trailer and informed Officer and I that the victim had a problem with alcohol. Although it is suspected that alcohol played a role in the accident, the victim was in surgery when Officer and I got to the hospital and could not be interviewed. No family members were present at the hospital nor were any of the witnesses.  It is believed the engine was engaged at the time victim entered the water.


BARDID: KY-2023-0045
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-09-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:30:00
State: KY
NameOfBodyOfWater: CAN RUN LAKE
NearestCityTown: SALT LICK
County: BATH
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
At approximately 1730 hrs on 2 September 2023, two vessels struck each other at the courtesy dock at Stoney Cove Boat Ramp. No injuries were reported, and minor to moderate damage was incurred. 

Vessel one received damage to its outboard motor cowling, and potentially damage to its cable steering system, while vessel two received minor damage to the fiberglass on the port stern corner. Both vessels were loaded on their trailers when officers arrived on scene.


BARDID: KY-2023-0046
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-06-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 23:04:00
State: KY
NameOfBodyOfWater: Ohio River
NearestCityTown: louisville
County: jefferson
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Alcohol
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
RedactedNarrative:
Above listed victim was operating the listed vessel on listed time and date. The vessel, it's operator and two passengers had just left the Louisville Waterfront Park Marina after attending the "Funk Fest". The vessel appeared to be up on plane heading East up river crossing from the Louisville side of the river gradually making it's way to the Indiana shore line.  

The vessel is believed to have come in contact with the steel wall along the North side of the Ohio River between MM 601-600. It appears the victim's upper body struck the wall when the vessel made contact where he sustained severe blunt force trauma to his head and upper body causing fatal injuries. 

Witness stated when he boarded the vessel to assist and drive it to the Marine Sales Boat ramp to meet with emergency services he could not see to operate the vessel due to the interior lights being on causing him to stick his head out to the side of the vessel to be able to see. 

Investigator believes interior lighting and speed are the contributing factors to this accident.  The operator had been drinking.


BARDID: KY-2023-0047
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:30:00
State: KY
NameOfBodyOfWater: Cumberland River
NearestCityTown: Corbin
County: Whitley
WaterConditions: Unknown
StrongCurrent: Y
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Poor
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentEvent1: Person departed vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On 02/09/2024 I was notified by my Supervisor LT 2 that on July 21st of 2023 there was a possible boating accident that involved someone going over the Cumberland Falls in a kayak.
I began my investigation with Whitley County Sheriffs Department who were present on the scene on the above date and got the name of the subject that was in question(Operator). I verified with them as well as the local dispatch that KY Fish & Wildlife was never notified about this accident. After speaking with Operator he was very reluctant on talking about what exactly led up to this accident and stated that " I had a bad day and went over the falls in a kayak 50/50 shot of making it". Operator did say he had been drinking and was intoxicated at the time of the accident. Operator was injured and hurt his back/neck in the accident. He was taken to the hospital on the 21st of July @ 2200 and stated that he has been to the VA Clinic for his follow ups on the injuries he received. 

The following agencies were present to the accident:
State Park Rangers, Whitley EMS, Woodbine Fire & Rescue, Oak Grove Fire & Rescue, Whitley County Sheriffs Department, & Corbin Fire Department. 


-OFFICER 1


BARDID: KY-2023-0048
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-31 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:50:00
State: KY
NameOfBodyOfWater: River
NearestCityTown: Owensboro
County: Daviess
WaterConditions: Unknown
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
RedactedNarrative:
Very limited information has been provided.  A death occurred at a boat ramp while the individual was loading his boat.  It is assumed he fell overboard due to alcohol use.  Drowning was listed as the cause of death but a contributing factor was blunt force trauma to the head.  It is unknown how the trauma occurred.


BARDID: LA-2023-0003
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-01-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 08:30:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Ponchartrain
NearestCityTown: Mandeville
County: St. Tammany
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Alcohol
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
RedactedNarrative:
Details of the incident are unknown.  On 1/8/2023 USCG notified St. Tammany Sheriffs Office and LDWF around 9:30 AM in regards to an unmanned vessel adrift in Lake Ponchartrain near the Causeway Bridge.  the vessel was later recovered by USCG patrol vessel 29451 and towed to Marina Del Ray in Madisonville, LA.  

The missing subject's truck and trailer were located parked at the Mandeville boat harbor launch.  Fishing gear and an ice chest containing beer were located in the vessel.  The vessel's 15hp Yamaha tiller outboard was turned off and in neutral and the kill switch was attached to the motor.  

Upon returning to the location where the vessel was initially located, USCG vessel recovered an inflatable PFD that was inflated and the buckle of the PFD was unclipped.  Written on the PFD was a name in permanent marker.  LDWF along with USCG and STPSO Marine Division searched until dark and were unable to locate anyone. 

On 1/16/2023 the body of victim was located floating in Lake Ponchartrain.  The St. Tammany Parish Coroners office took possession of the body and performed an autopsy.  The preliminary findings of the autopsy indicated that the death was ruled an Accidental Drowning.  Toxicology results are pending.

Two empty beer cans were located in the vessel, PFD was inflated and located in the water near the drifting vessel.  Contributing factors are operator inattention, and alcohol consumption.  The type of incident is falls overboard.


BARDID: LA-2023-0004
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-01-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:38:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Toledo Bend
NearestCityTown: Negreet
County: Sabine - 43
WaterConditions: Rough
HazardousWaters: Y
Wind: Storm
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Weather
AccidentEvent1: Collision with floating object
AccidentEvent2: Grounding
AccidentEvent3: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
On January 28, 2023, at approximately 11:30 am, vessel 1, a 19' aluminum Xpress with remote steering, were returning to Pirate's Cove Marina after fishing.  Both men were wearing Type III PFD, properly fitted and secured.  The bow rope was hanging in the water and became tangled in the propeller, causing the vessel to lose power.  

The wind caused the vessel to drift towards an island were the vessel grounded.  The grounded vessel took on water from high waves causing it to flood.  Both men were able to make their way safely onto the island and called for help by cell phone. 

Another vessel observed the men on the island, but due to the wind and waves, could not safely secure the men.  The vessel's operator contacted 911 and reported the flooded vessel.  The Sabine Parish Sheriff's Department contacted LDWF Agents, who responded to the scene.  Just prior to LDWF Agents arriving on scene, a vessel owned by friends arrived and safely secured both men.  

Both men refused medical assistance and were transported to the Pirate's Cove Marina.  The vessel was left grounded and flooded on the island due to wind and waves making recovery unsafe.  Alcohol nor drugs are suspected to be factors in this accident.  Contributing factors include operator inattention (allowing the bow line to hang in the water) and weather (high winds and waves).


BARDID: LA-2023-0006
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-02-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:47:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Toledo Bend
NearestCityTown: Zwolle
County: Sabine - 43
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Machinery failure
AccidentCause3: Sharp turn
MachineryFailure: Steering
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentEvent2: Falls overboard
RedactedNarrative:
On February 12, 2023 at approximately 9:47 A.M., Operator was ejected from his vessel while traveling in the boat lane near Tranquility Bay on Toledo Bend Lake in Sabine Parish. Agents were advised of the boat accident on 2/12/2023 at approximately 9:47 A.M. While on scene, Agents observed an unoccupied vessel underway, operating in circles in the middle of the boat lane. Operator was retrieved from the water by a nearby boater and brought back to the Tranquility Bay boat launch where he was transported to LSU Shreveoprt Oschners hospital by Med Express.  Agents were able to secure the unoccupied vessel and return it to the boat launch. 

While driving the vessel back to the boat launch, agents discovered that the steering was backwards. After talking to Operator, he advised that he recently had the steering repaired. The vessel was a 17 ft., 1989 Ranger 350V, powered by a 150 Yamaha proV with remote steering. Operator was not wearing a PFD or a kill switch. The use of drugs and/or alcohol are not being considered a contributing factor in the accident. Operator inattention and fault of machinery is being considered the contributing factors in the accident.


BARDID: LA-2023-0008
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-02-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 07:30:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Intracoastal Waterway
NearestCityTown: Amelia
County: St.Mary
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause2: Missing or inadequate navigation aids
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentEvent3: Falls overboard
RedactedNarrative:
On February 9th, 2023, Wildlife Enforcement Agent, Sergeant was notified of a vessel incident that occurred in St. Mary Parish. Sgt. was advised that the vessel struck a dredge pipe and that both occupants of the vessel were going to be brought to the hospital. Sgt. was also advised that the vessel was towed in to the Amelia boat launch, where it would be brought to the owner’s residence by a family member.
Later in the day, Sgt. made contact with the owner and operator of the vessel that was involved in the incident. Sgt. made contact with Subject1 and learned that he and his brother would be released from the hospital later in the day. At that time, Sgt. responded to area where the incident occurred, which was in the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW), near Bayou Chene. Sgt. observed that there was a dredging operation actively taking place. Sgt. noticed and photographed that there were dredge pipes on both the North and South banks of the ICW. There were also markers that marked the beginning of the dredge operations and at the time, all exposed dredge pipes were in between the markers and the bank. Sgt. also took photographs of the markers and dredge pipes (see attached photos 1-4). Sgt. made sure to pass close to both markers and did not observe any dredge pipe close to the surface of the water, where vessel traffic is intended to pass. 

Once Sgt. photographed the area, he departed to make contact with Subject1. Upon making contact with Subject1, Sgt. asked for him to explain what occurred with the incident. Subject1 stated that he and his brother, Subject2 were on their way to go fishing. Subject1 stated that he and his brother departed from the Amelia boat launch his 19ft 4in, fiberglass, bass boat with remote steering and were heading Eastward in the ICW, at approximately 57-58mph, when at the last moment, he observed a part of the dredge pipe beneath the water’s surface as he was passing over it. 

Subject1 stated that his vessel then struck the pipe and he immediately placed his vessel in neutral. Subject1 stated that his vessel began to “skip” across the water before it made an unexpected abrupt turn to port. Subject1 stated that once his vessel made the abrupt turn to port, he and Subject2 were both thrown against the starboard side of the vessel before he was ejected from the vessel. Subject1 stated that he was wearing his kill switch lanyard and PFD (lifejacket) and his brother, Subject2 was also wearing a PFD at the time of the incident. 

Subject1 explained that Subject2 assisted in getting him back into the vessel, where he stripped his clothes and replaced them with dry, warm clothing. Subject1 explained that his vessel was taking on water at such a rapid rate, that the vessel’s bilge pump could not keep up. Subject1 stated that nearby crew members from the Crosby Towing operation came to assist, where they placed a large electric pump in his vessel and began pumping water out of the vessel. 

Subject1 explained that the crew members then assisted by securing his vessel to theirs and towing him back to the Amelia boat launch. Sgt. then inspected Subject1’s vessel. Sgt. documented and photographed the damages (see attached photos11-17). Sgt. also noted that the physical damages to Subject1’s vessel were consistent to what Subject1 explained happened with the incident. Subject1 then provided Sgt. with access to the GPS that was dash mounted in his vessel (see attached photo 18). Sgt. was able to see on the GPS where his vessel passed in the waterway. According to the vessel’s track log and coordinates, Subject1’s vessel passed between the markers that were being used to mark safe passage where the dredge pipe was beneath the water’s surface. 

      On 3/7/2023, Subject3 provided Sgt. with the official statements that the Crosby Towing employees provided (see attached). Upon reviewing, the witness statements, they were all similar in content. Sgt. learned that Crosby Towing was utilizing 2- tugboats to transport a piece of plastic dredge pipe, approximately 750ft in length from the North bank of the ICW to the South bank of the ICW (see attached statements and sketch from Crosby Towing). At the time of the incident, the 2-tug boats were operating between the 2- markers that were being used to mark safe passage where the dredge pipe was beneath the water’s surface. It is unclear whether or not there were any markings on the section of plastic dredge pipe that they were towing when the incident occurred. The majority of the witnesses stated that they observed Subject1’s vessel traveling at a high rate of speed prior to his vessel striking the plastic dredge pipe and that they did not have enough time to try getting his attention to make before the incident occurred. 
        On 3/18/2023, Sgt. made contact with Subject1 at his residence. Sgt. advised Subject1 that he was there for some follow up questions in reference to the incident. Before asking Subject1 any questions, Sgt. read Subject1 his Miranda Rights. Subject1 intelligently and voluntarily acknowledged and waived his Rights. Sgt. then asked Subject1 if he recalled seeing 2-tug boats towing a piece of dredge pipe. Subject1 stated that he did not. Subject1e stated that he did recall seeing 1-tug boat and that he wanted to pass on the tugboat’s port side so that he remained to his respective right, like he is supposed to do. 

Subject1 also stated that since he was anticipating making a right hand turn into Bayou Chene from the ICW, he did not think twice about passing where he was passing in the ICW and in relation to the tugboat. Subject1 stated that he was very comfortable at the speeds he was traveling and that his vessel is completely under control at the speeds he was traveling. Sgt. then explained to Subject1 what he learned about the incident and that there was a 2nd tugboat further away that was connected to the first tugboat with a plastic piece of dredge pipe that was approximately 750ft long. 

Subject1 stated that he never noticed the 2nd tugboat and did not understand how they could be transporting such a large piece of dredge pipe without some sort of pilot vessel watching for other vessels or some sort of markings on the dredge pipe that they were transporting. Sgt. explained to Subject1 that he was unaware of exactly what dredging operations are required to do, but had to go off of all of the information he is provided from all parties. 

Sgt. also explained to Subject1 that he had documented 2-markers in the ICW that marked where the dredge pipe went beneath the water’s surface and that he passed close to those markers and never located a piece of pipe that was near the water’s surface. Sgt. also explained to Subject1 that as a boat operator, when you see some sort of commercial activity, it would be safest to slow down and figure out what all is going on with the operation before proceeding. Sgt. continued, explaining to Subject1 that based off of all of the evidence and witness statements, it was determined that he violated rule number 16 of the rules of the road for vessels. Rule number 16 states that all vessels shall be operated at reasonable speeds for given conditions. After interviewing and/or reading all witness statements and operator statements, Sgt. concluded the following. 

Subject1 was operating his 19ft 4in, fiberglass, bass boat with remote steering in the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW), located in St. Mary Parish. Subject1 was heading in an Eastward direction when he noticed a dredging operation taking place in the vicinity of Bayou Chene and the I


BARDID: LA-2023-0011
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2023-02-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:30:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE PONCHARTRAIN
NearestCityTown: SLIDELL
County: ST. TAMMANY
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
AccidentCause2: Weather
MachineryFailure: Engine
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Sinking
RedactedNarrative:
Operator motored out of Bayou Bonfuca and entered Lake Ponchartrain as he was heading to the Mississippi River to bring his vessel back to his house.  As he got near the train bridge he lost power to the starboard engine.  

As he lost power to the engine a front started to break and the weather turned for the worst.  Operator sent his son the only passenger downstairs to put a charger on the battery.  The engine was able to be restarted for a short time but lost power again.  After losing the starboard engine the port engine lost power and the wind pushed the vessel broadside against the train bridge.  Once the boat started beating against the train bridge the Capt. and his passenger jump onto the train bridge where they called 911 and the Coast Guard. 

 Approximately 6:30 p.m. the Coast Guard was able to get them from the bridge and bring them to safety.  Alcohol does not seem to be a factor in this accident as the Agents were not notified until the next day and were not able to locate the boat after several visits to the area.  Operator nor his passenger used PFD's in this accident.  This vessel was equipped with hydraulic steering.  In this investigators opinion it is believed that equipment failure and weather where the two biggest contributing factors to this accident.


BARDID: LA-2023-0013
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-02-19 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:24:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Bartholomew Lake
NearestCityTown: Sterlington
County: Morehouse
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause2: Restricted vision
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
RedactedNarrative:
On February 19, 2023 at approximately 7:38 p.m. I, Cpl., was contacted through LDWF Dispatch and advised that a boating incident that had occurred on Bartholomew Lake.

At approximately 7:53 p.m. Deputies of the Ouachita Parish Sheriff's Office contacted Operator and Occupant at the Barrett boat landing and advised them that a Wildlife and Fisheries Agent was on the way to investigate this accident.

At approximately 8:01 p.m. I arrived at Barrett boat landing. I contacted Operator and Occupant and identified myself as an Enforcement Agent and advised them that I would be investigating this incident. Operator stated that he was the owner and operator of the vessel involved, now on its trailer.

Operator and Occupant voluntarily gave oral statements of the incidents events. I advised Operator that I would be taking pictures of his vessel now and would need to take some later on during the day. Operator was also given an Operator Boating Incident Report to complete. I took a written statement from Occupant, of the accident. 

There was no indication of drug or alcohol impairment from Operator. 

Operator sustained a minor laceration to the neck and his passenger reported no injuries.

On February 19, 2023 at approximately, 7:24 p.m. Operator was operating a vessel, on Bartholomew Lake when he lost control of the vessel. Operator 's vessel stuck a tree on the starboard side bow and on starboard side aft, just before the transom. Operator was able to drive it back to the Barret's Boat launch.

The area where this incident occurred was narrowed by a boat house on the south bank and trees on the north bank. I believe Operator made a wider turn than he intended to around this boat house which caused his vessel to travel closer to the trees than he expected. Operator then over corrected to avoid the trees causing him to lose control of his vessel and strike a tree.  

Based on verbal and written statements along with physical evidence, I believe this incident occurred for the following reasons:
1. Rules of the Road for Vessels: 
    #16 - All vessels shall be operated at reasonable speeds for given conditions and situations and must be under the complete control of the operator at all times.

    #13 - In a narrow channel, vessels will keep to the right of mid-channel.

2.Time of Day:
    This incident occurred at night.


BARDID: LA-2023-0014
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-03-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 06:55:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: D'Arbonne Lake
NearestCityTown: Farmeville
County: Union
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause2: Restricted vision
AccidentCause3: Excessive speed
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person struck by propeller
RedactedNarrative:
On Sunday, March 5, 2023, at approximately 7:00 p.m., I, Cpl. 1 was notified of a single-vessel accident, near Gills Ferry on D'Arbonne Lake in Union Parish. The vessel was carrying four subjects. Upon my arrival, I identified myself as Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Agent and learned all four subjects were out of the water and loaded into their vehicle.

It was learned that Operator was the operator of the vessel. Operator stated that they were headed to set out yo-yos, and their boat motor struck a stump under the water, and they were ejected from the boat. Operator suffered a laceration to his left thigh and prop scrapes to his stomach. Operator was transported by ambulance at this time to Northern Louisiana Medical Center in Ruston, Louisiana. Photos of all injuries sustained were taken. (see attached photo log).  

I then identified the three passengers as Injured 1, Injured 2, and Passenger 3. Injured 1 suffered a scrape to his lower leg, Injured 2 suffered a scrape to his arm. Both subjects refused medical attention. Passenger 3 was not injured. Lt. 3 and Cpl. 2 arrived shortly after the ambulance arrived on scene to assist with the investigation. Lt. 3 read Passenger 3 and Injured 2's Miranda Rights and they both stated they understood their rights and agreed to speak with him. 

Passenger 3 stated that they had been running yo-yos and it was starting to get dark. He said that they returned to the ramp to get a headlamp and then as they were traveling back down the creek towards the yo-yos, when they hit a stump. Passenger 3 said that they were all thrown out of the boat and into the water. He said that the boat started circling until it got stuck in the mud. He stated that Injured 1 swam and got into the boat and they all loaded back into the boat and drove back to the ramp. Passenger 3 stated they were heading towards the hospital when they ran into me. Passenger 3 provided me with a written statement, and it is attached to this report. 

Injured 2 stated that they were riding in the boat and they hit a stump. Injured 2 stated that they all went flying out of the boat. Injured 2 stated each of them except for Passenger 3 was struck by the boat. He said that they all swam to the bank. He said they made a few calls for help and Injured 1 swam and got the boat when it ran aground. He said that they all loaded back into the boat and drove back to the ramp. Injured 2 provided me with a written statement and it is attached to this report. 

Lt. 3 also spoke with the juvenile, Injured 1, in the presence of his dads friend. Injured 1 was read his Miranda Rights and they stated they understood his rights and agreed to speak with him. Injured 1 stated they were fishing yo-yos and it was starting to get dark. He said that they went to the boat ramp to get a headlamp and were on their way back to finish running the yo-yos. Injured 1 said that they were traveling 20-25mph and hit a stump in the channel. He said that it threw each of them out of the boat and into the water. He said that it ran over Operator first and then hit him and Injured 2. He said that the boat got stuck on a stump and he swam to the boat and drove it to where the other three were. He said that they all loaded back into the boat and went back to the boat ramp. Injured 1 provided a written statement and it is attached to this report.     
 

During my inspection of the vessel, I noticed it was an aluminum Excel boat equipped with a 50hp Yamaha motor. I witnessed three Type III PFD's in the front compartment of the vessel and they were dry and seemed to be unused. I did not see any alcohol in or around the vessel. The kill lanyard was still attached to the motor at this time. The key was in the off position and the motor was in neutral. There was no physical damage to the vessel that I could see. The vessel displayed a 2023 Louisiana decal and the vessel numbers were clearly displayed. Photos of the vessel were taken and they are attached to this report. I did not suspect any drug or alcohol use at the time of the incident.

On Wednesday, March 8, 2023, Cpl. 2 and I spoke with Operator at his grandparents' residence. Cpl. 2 read Operator his Miranda Rights, at which time he stated he understood and he agreed to speak with us. Operator indicated that they had set out ten yo-yos, and it began to get dark. He said they decided to return to the truck to get headlamps. After retrieving their headlamps, they proceeded to go back out to set more yo-yo's out when the boat's motor struck a submerged stump, causing the motor's handle to be jerked out of his hand. Operator said that caused everyone to be thrown out of the boat. He stated the boat began to circle them as they tried to escape it when it ran him over. All four passengers were able to make it to the bank, and the boat finally got stuck in the mud. He stated that his brother Injured 1 was able to swim out and get into the boat. Injured 1 then picked them all up and they returned to the ramp at Gills Ferry. Operator provided a written statement. (see attached).

Contributing factors of the accident are restricted vision, excessive speed, and careless operation. The vessel's operator was traveling at a rate of speed during the nighttime conditions that caused all four occupants to be ejected from the vessel. The kill switch was not used, which caused the vessel to go into circles, causing injuries to the occupants.  

Louisiana revised statutes 34:851.4(16), states the careless operation of a watercraft is the operation of a watercraft in a careless manner so as to endanger the life, limb, or property of any person, when such operation constitutes a violation of any of the following requirement. Section (16) states all vessels shall be operated at reasonable speeds for given conditions and situations and must be under the complete control of the operator at all times. Operator failed to meet this and he was cited for the above violation. Operator also was not wearing the required kill lanyard just prior to the incident and he was cited for La.R.S. 34:851.24- Fail to comply with tiller outboard engine cutoff less than 26 feet. Operator was also cited for La.R.S. 34:851. 24 F (1)- Failure to comply with PFD requirements. Operator did not have enough PFD's on board for the amount of passengers in the vessel.


BARDID: LA-2023-0015
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-03-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 23:43:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: AMITE RIVER
NearestCityTown: PORT VONCENT, LA
County: LIVINGSTON
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Sinking
RedactedNarrative:
On 03/18/2023, it was reported that vessel operated by Operator was traveling downstream in the Amite River when it struck an unseen, submerged object causing the bow to rise up and the starboard side transom to dip and take on water at the stern.  The sudden rush of water caused the vessel to become unbalanced, list and eventually capsize over to the port side and sink. Operator was able to make it shore where he received assistance from several good Samaritan's that assisted him out of the water. The vessel remained submerged and has not been retrieved at the time of this report.
Operator was examined and treated by Emergency Medical Personnel (EMS) at the scene and released.
Drug or alcohol are not suspected as a contributing factor in this incident.
PFD'S were available but not used in this incident.


BARDID: LA-2023-0016
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-03-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 07:00:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Toledo Bend
NearestCityTown: Zwolle
County: Sabine - 43
WaterConditions: Rough
HazardousWaters: Y
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Weather
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Grounding
RedactedNarrative:
At approximately 7:00 am, on March 11, 2023, vessel 1 a 17 foot 8 inches aluminum Triton with remote steering was operated on Toledo Bend by Operator.  Operator and his passenger were fishing a tournament and were cruising the large island near Blue Lake.  Vessel 1 was equipped with three type II, three type III and one type IV PFS’s, all were accessible but not worn.  The engine kill lanyard was worn and the throttle was in the forward position just above idle. 
     As Operator traveled south with the bow headed into the on-coming waves and turned vessel 1 to the east, a large wave came over the Starboard side and flooded vessel 1.  Operator attempted to turn the bow of vessel 1 back south but the waves flooded vessel 1 and pushed it to shallow water, grounding vessel 1.  
     The men entered the water attempting to free the vessel, but were unsuccessful.  Operator contacted 911 by cell phone.  911 operator then contacted LDWF agent who responded with an Enforcement vessel.  LDWF agent retrieved both men from the water and transported them to Blue Lake Launch in the Enforcement vessel were medical personnel assessed them for hypothermia.  Both men were cleared by medical personnel and refused transport to the hospital.  
     Vessel 1 was left in the flooded and grounded due to high winds and waves making recovery unsafe.   At approximately 3:00 pm, the men and a friend went back to vessel 1 and recovered it, and towed vessel 1 back to Blue Lake Launch.
    At the time of the accident, the wind was blowing approximately 25 MPH causing rough waves.  Contributing factors include, operator inattention (not aware of weather) and weather (High winds and waves).  Alcohol nor drugs are suspected to be factors in this accident.  The type of incident is flooding/grounding.  
     After speaking to the owner of vessel 1, she stated that vessel 1 was insured and would be turned over to them for damage assessment due to the electronics and engine being submerged.


BARDID: LA-2023-0017
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-02-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:00:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Fausse Point/Sandy Cove
NearestCityTown: Loureauville
County: Iberia
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentCause3: Excessive speed
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On February 11, 2023, at approximately 1:00 pm, in Iberia Parish, subject1 was operating his vessel on Lake Fausse Point, in Sandy Cove, Iberia Parish, when he collided with another vessel. At the time of impact subject1 was ejected from the vessel into the water and subject2 was knocked unconscious inside the vessel. 

Subject1 received an abrasion on his left forearm, abdominal trauma and chipped teeth. Subject1                                                     on received a laceration above his right eye, his fingers are numb and is having back pain. Both were transported to Lafayette General Hospital in Lafayette, LA, where they are receiving medical attention. Both were not wearing their PFDs at the time of the incident. Subject1 was wearing his PFD and received no injuries. Agent conducted field sobriety on Subject1 and no alcohol impairment was discovered. He also provided agents with a voluntary breath sample which registered .000g%. Blood and urine records were obtained via search warrant for other operator which came back negative for alcohol. Both vessels were tiller handle surface drive motors. Contributing factors were rules of the road (3, 10, 16, and 20), excessive speed, operator inattention and congested waters.


BARDID: LA-2023-0019
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-03-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:30:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Belle River
NearestCityTown: Belle River
County: St.Martin
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
RedactedNarrative:
Operator was operating an 18ft aluminum skiff with remote steering in Belle River, located in Lower St. Martin Parish. Operator came off plane and placed his vessel in neutral, but left the engine running. For unknown reasons, Operator fell overboard and drowned. At the time of the incident, Operator was wearing a kill switch lanyard, but not a life jacket (PFD). A nearby witness and owner of the vessel, Operator was driving stated that he observed Operator underway, heading south. The witness stated a brief moment later, he looked back and saw that Operator was no longer in the vessel and the vessel was drifting down Belle River. The witness then began looking for Operator, but only found his hat. The witness then began calling for help. Multiple agencies responded to the scene and with the help of side scan sonar and dragging devices, Operator was located and turned over to the St. Martin Parish Coroner. Agent does not suspect alcohol or drugs to be contributing factors in the incident.


BARDID: LA-2023-0020
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-04-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:32:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Darbonne
NearestCityTown: Farmerville
County: Union - 56
WaterConditions: Choppy
HazardousWaters: Y
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
RedactedNarrative:
On Saturday, April 1, 2023, I, Cpl. 1 was contacted in reference to a single vessel accident on Lake Darbonne in Union Parish. I was informed that there were no injuries and the vessel was out of the water at this time and located off of Hillside Drive. 

             Upon my arrival, I met with the operator. Operator advised me that he did not sustain any injuries during the accident. Operator was cruising downstream in the main channel of the lake near Bear Creek boat run when he struck an unknown object under the surface of the water. Operator stated he was wearing his PFD and kill lanyard when the accident occurred. Operator stated he was able to use his electronic trolling motor and make it back to his camp. While speaking with him, I did not suspect neither drugs nor alcohol during this investigation. Operator was provided an operator packet and it is attached to this report.

             I witnessed the welds were cracked on the transom of the vessel near the splash well. I also noticed that just above the lower unit the motor was cracked and broke near the shift linkage. I photographed the vessel and the damage. All photographs are attached to this report.


BARDID: LA-2023-0021
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-03-31 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:00:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Toledo Bend
NearestCityTown: Converse
County: Sabine - 43
WaterConditions: Rough
HazardousWaters: Y
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Machinery failure
AccidentCause3: Weather
MachineryFailure: Engine
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Grounding
AccidentEvent3: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
On March 31st, 2023 at 12:00P.M., Sgt. 1 notified me of a boat accident on the North end of Toledo Bend Reservoir near Jolly Roger's Marina. I contacted Sabine Parish Sheriff’s Office for further details. I was advised the call had come through DeSoto Parish Dispatch and received a contact number. Upon contact with DPSO I was advised the subjects (two) were approximately one half mile north of Jolly Roger's Marina near the parish line, taking on water in their vessel, and clinging to trees. I advised DPSO dispatch to send me a contact number for the subjects in the accident, but never received it. I notified LDWF Dispatch, Lt. 2, and contacted Cpl. 3 to meet me at the marina. Two agents from Region one, DeSoto Parish Fire Department, and DPSO dive team were also en route to the marina. Prior to arrival I was notified by DPSO that they had recovered the subjects, returned them to the marina, and both were fine with no injuries.
Upon arrival I made contact with the operator of the vessel and passenger identifying myself as an LDWF Enforcement Agent, I asked if they needed medical attention. They declined medical attention and advised they had no injuries (The subjects were dry with no visible injuries). I advised both subjects of their Miranda Rights by reading them from a card carried in the field. Upon interviewing Operator he stated he was operating his vessel a 2006 Skeeter TZX200 that was 19 feet 6 inches in length back to the marina when his propeller struck a submerged stump. After striking the stump Operator's outboard Yamaha 175HP V-Max engine would not propel the vessel. The prevailing winds and waves pushed the vessel into a shallow area overpowering their trolling motor and grounding the vessel. Waves then came over the stern flooding the vessel and ultimately swamping it. Passenger was a passenger on the vessel, his statement matched that of Operator. Both subjects were given the opportunity to give voluntary written statements (See voluntary statements).
The subjects stated they were not wearing PFDs but had PFDs readily accessible on their vessel. Operator advised he was wearing his kill switch lanyard. During the interview neither subject had any signs of impairment. Operator advised he was going to recover his vessel when the lake calmed down and would contact me when he came back to the marina so I could photograph damages to his vessel.
On April 1st, 2023 at 12:27P.M. I was contacted by Operator, he was on the lake starting to recover his swamped vessel. He advised they were going to change the spun hub to see if they could get the vessel running and would contact me when they started to bring the vessel back to shore. At 1:13P.M. I was contacted again by Operator advising they had failed to get the vessel running and were towing it to the marina. I made contact with Operator at approximately 2:30P.M. near Jolly Roger’s Marina to photograph damages (See photograph log). The vessel had damage to the underside of the hull and keel from cypress knees beneath the surface causing scratches and chips in the gel coating. The storm had pushed sand and water into every compartment on the vessel exposing all of Operator’s rods and reels, tackle, and other boating items. The two battery chargers, batteries, SonarScan unit, and fuel tank were submerged approximately 24 hours.


BARDID: LA-2023-0022
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-04-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:50:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: CALCASIEU RIVER
NearestCityTown: LAKE CHARLES
County: Calcasieu - 10
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause3: Force of wake/wave
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
The operator of vessel 1 was traveling on the public waterway of calcasiseu river heading west in a 15' havoc w/60 hp mercury tiller handle.  He had one other person onboard.

Vessel 1 was on plane just west of theriot launch on the calcasieu  river when he turned south at the river bend and attempted to make a quick u-turn hitting the wake he had just created.  Operator lost control of his vessel, due to speed and force of hitting his own wake.  Operator and his passenger occupant, became ejected from the vessel. The vessel then capsized and sank.

Operator had his kill switch on which killed the engine as he was ejected from the vessel.  Operator and occupant both were not wearing their pfd's at the time.  Operaotr’s brother was the operator of the other vessel just behind him at the time of the incident, with a passenger.  They retrieved operator  and occupant from the water.  Operator and occupant both did not receive any injuries.  Operator received citation for rs 34:851.4  (careless operation of a watercraft) and for rs 34:851.24 (failure to comply w/pfd requirements on vessel less than 16' with tiller handle).


BARDID: LA-2023-0023
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-03-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 07:00:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Toledo Bend
NearestCityTown: Zwolle
County: Sabine - 43
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On 3/25/2023, LDWF Agents were notified of a boating accident involving 2 vessels that occurred on Toledo Bend Lake in Sabine Parish. Both vessel 1 and vessel 2 launched from San Miguel State Park and entered the main boat lane and traveled West. 

While traveling west, vessel 2 was in front of vessel 1. Once intersecting the main boat lane that travels North and South of Toledo Bend. Both vessels turn North. During this maneuvering vessel 1 struck vessel 2 at the starboard stern with the port bow. 

Both vessels sustained damages that they estimated to amount to over 500 dollars. Both vessels were able to continue throughout the day.  The passenger of vessel 1, stated that he suffered minor injuries due to the boat accident. His injuries consisted of a scraped knuckle and a bruised left forearm. He stated that his injuries were not severe and did not require medical attention. He was the only reported injury. 

Vessel 1 was determined to be a 2004, 21 ft. fiberglass Ranger 520 VX equipped with a 225 horsepower Mercury outboard engine which is remote steering. Vessel was determined to be a 2018, 21 ft. fiberglass Phoenix 21PHX equipped with a 250 horsepower Mercury outboard engine which is remote steering. 

Both operators had an engine cut off lanyard attached to their person. Both operators and passengers were wearing a personal flotation device. The use of drugs and/or alcohol are not being considered a contributing factor in the accident. Careless operation, rules of the road (#16), sharp turn, and no proper lookout are considered to be the contributing factors in the boat accident.


BARDID: LA-2023-0024
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-04-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:00:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Caney Lake
NearestCityTown: Jonesboro
County: Jackson
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Poor
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Restricted vision
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On 4/14/2023 at approximately 10:00PM, I was contacted by Jackson Parish S.O. in reference to a boat accident on Caney Lake. I arrived on scene at approximately 10:30PM. I was notified by the S.O. that a pontoon vessel impacted the Caney Lake Dam. I was also informed there were 2 passengers on board the vessel and injuries were unknown at the time I was en route to the accident. Upon my arrival at the scene, I was initially informed the only passenger received possible head and neck injuries. Passenger was airlifted to LSU medical center in Shreveport. At the time of Passenger's departure from the scene, I was notified by Deputies that she had a loss of sensation in her arms and legs and possible paralysis. I then made contact with the operator. Operator did not appear to have injuries and refused any medical treatment. Operator stated Passenger was sitting next to him on the couch portion of the vessel. Operator stated Passenger was ejected from the vessel upon impact with the dam. Operator informed me that he believed he was traveling a different direction on the lake when the accident occured. Operator stated when traveling at night on Caney that he usually travels toward a particular set of lights on the lake. Operator stated he mixed the lights up and was traveling towards the wrong set of lights. Operator also informed me that he was traveling on step fairly quick as he was trying to hurry and get home because the weather was cooling off. I observed the vessel on the embankment of the dam with just the motor and the stern in the water, throttle in neutral. There were 3 empty michelob ultra beer bottles in the vessel which Operator stated he consumed prior to the accident. I determined Operator to not be impaired. The Jackson Parish S.O. transported Operator to the annex on Jonesboro. Operator voluntarily submitted a proper sample at .022g% BAC into the Intoxilyzer 9000. I determined the contributing factors relating to this accident to be excessive speed for the night time visibilty conditions, restricted vision to the poor visibilty, and reckless operation due to the speed and poor visibilty. These are all major factors that resulted in this impact collision with the Caney Lake dam. 11 type III PFD's on vessel.


BARDID: LA-2023-0027
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-04-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:45:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Vermillion Bay
NearestCityTown: Intracoastal City
County: Iberia - 23
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
RedactedNarrative:
On April 10, 2023, at approximately 10:33am, Corporal was notified of a boat accident west of the mouth of Avery Canal in Vermilion Bay in Iberia Parish. Vessel, a 17' open cabin console vessel, operated by Operator of Delcambre, LA, struck the rock jetties while traveling on plane. Due to high water, Operator operated his hydraulically steered vessel over the submerged rock jetties at approximately 18 knots. Operator advised that he thought he was far enough from the shoreline to avoid passing over the rock jetty. Operator's vessel struck the rock jetty and received significant damage to the lower unit of his motor (bullet). No injuries were sustained by any of the 4 occupants. All occupants were donning properly fitted personal flotation devices. Alcohol is not suspected to be a contributing factor to this incident.


BARDID: LA-2023-0028
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-05-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:13:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Wonder Lake
NearestCityTown: Montegut
County: Terrebonne
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentEvent1: Electrocution
AccidentEvent2: Falls overboard
RedactedNarrative:
On May 6, 2023 at approximately 1:13pm, LDWF Corporal 1 was notified by member of the Chauvin Fire Department of a person getting struck by lightning and was ejected into the water at N 29° 24.509 W 90° 30.819. At 1:30pm, Cpl. 1 arrived at the Isle de Jean Charles boat launch were EMS personnel were already on scene tending to the victim. Passenger, who was struck by lightning, was transported to University Medical Center with injuries considered to be life threatening. According to the operator, Passenger was attempting to deploy a marsh anchor rod off the bow of when he was struck by a lightning bolt causing him to fall overboard. Operator was able to get Passenger back into the vessel and called 911. Operator then transported Passenger to the nearest boat launch, the Isle de Jean Charles boat launch, to meet up with EMS. As of 7:30pm, Passenger is considered to be in stable condition and expected to be released from University Medical Center on 05/07/23.
        Alcohol and/or drugs are not believed to be a contributing factor in this incident as no signs of impairment were detected. Vessel is a 2013 16' Allweld aluminum hull equipped with a 40hp Pro-Drive tiller steered outboard. The vessel was equipped with all of the required safety equipment, including 2 TType III PFD's and 1 Type IV PFD. The preliminary investigation reveals weather to be the lone contributing factor in this falls overboard (lightning strike) incident.


BARDID: LA-2023-0029
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-04-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:45:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Tickfaw River
NearestCityTown: Springfield
County: Livingston
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause3: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Grounding
RedactedNarrative:
on April 16, 2023, a 48ft MTl vessel, being operated by Operator, was traveling upstream in the Tickfaw River in Livingston Parish. While maneuvering a starboard side turn the operator lost control of the vessel resulting in crashing into the shoreline and ultimately traveling into the wood line approximately 157 feet before coming to rest on its port side. All operator and 4 passengers remained in the vessel during the duration of the incident. As a result of this incident the operator Operator and one passenger, Injured 1, were transported by ambulance to North Oak's Hospital. The other three passengers Passenger 2, Passenger 3 and Passenger 4 were seen by fire rescue/ signed refusal and released.

Injuries that incurred to Operator included damage to his neck (mixed diagnoses depending on physician (c3-c7). His left ear was severed and then reattached. His ankle got lacerated along with bruising. Injured 1 got a concussion along with a few bruised ribs. Passenger 2, Passenger 3 and Passenger 4 all had Day after soreness.

Based on available evidence to date, investigative conclusions have determined that operator attempted to negotiate the turn at a speed in excess of 90 mph and was unable to maintain control of his vessel.

A Careless Operation citation was issued to the operator as a result of this incident for violation of "Rules of the Road" #16.


BARDID: LA-2023-0031
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-05-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:20:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Calcasieu River
NearestCityTown: Lake Charles
County: Calcasieu - 10
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 2, a 22'11" Ebbtide (remote steering) with a 5.0 inboard motor with three (3) passengers.  Vessel 2 was traveling East on Calcasieu River, in front of Vessel 1.  Vessel 1, a 21' Ranger (remote steering) with a 200 HP Yamaha also had four people onboard.  

Vessel 1 was also traveling East on the Calcasieu River.  Vessel 1 attempted to overtake Vessel 2 on Vessel 2's port side.  

Vessel 1 hit the wake on Vessel 2 causing Vessel 1 to pull into the port stern side of Vessel 2.   As V1 hit the wake of V2 the operator from Vessel 1 fell to his left side.  

A passenger from Vessel 2 ( sitting near the port stern in a seat) was flung forward approximately 6 feet, remaining inside the vessel and landing near the console.  This passenger suffered shoulder and hip pain and sought medical attention from Acadian Ambulance.  

One passenger, a minor, was wearing a PFD on Vessel1, however no other passenger on either V1 or V2 was wearing a PFD.  

This two  (2) vessel Collison's contributing factors are careless operation due to a violation of the Rules of the Road #2 which states the vessel overtaking another must yield to the right of way to the vessel being overtaken.  In addition to the Rules of the Road violation, the force of V2's wake was also a contributing factor.  

V1's operator was issued a citation under R.S. 34:851.4 (16) for Careless Operation of a watercraft.


BARDID: LA-2023-0032
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-04-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:45:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Cane River
NearestCityTown: Natchez
County: Natchitoches
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1, operated by V1 Operator, is a 2005, 22'6" center console, remote steer Shearwater.  V1 Passenger was a passenger in Vessel 1 and was seated to the right of V1 Operator.   V1 Operator was standing as he drove.  Vessel 2, operated by V2 Operator, is a 2019, remote steer, 21'11" Malibu wake boat.  V2 Passenger was a passenger in Vessel 2 and was seated to the left of V2 Operator.  Vessel 1 attempted to pass Vessel 2 on Vessel 2's port side.  As Vessel 1 came over the wake of Vessel 2, V1 Operator was jarred by the impact of the wake, and he fell into the bottom of his vessel on the port side.  This caused him to lose control.  Vessel 1 collided with the stern of Vessel 2, causing significant damage.  V1 Operator was able to grab the throttle and and put the vessel in neutral.  V1 Operator was not wearing a cutoff lanyard.  V2 Operator was wearing a cutoff lanyard. Vessel 1 is owned by V1 Operator.  Vessel 2 is owned by V2 Passenger.  V1 Operator and V2 Passenger exchanged information, and V1 Operator followed Vessel 2 nearly to the Shell Beach boat launch to make sure it made it back safely.  None of the occupants of Vessels 1 or 2 were wearing PFD's.  Alcohol is not suspected to be a contributing factor.  Force of Wake/Wave and Rules of the Road (#16) are contributing factors.  No injuries were reported, and no medical attention was given.  On 5/2/23, Sgt. 2 and I, Cpl. 1, issued V1 Operator a citation for violating R.S. 34:851.4 - CARELESS OPERATION (RULES OF THE ROAD #16).  He was given a criminal court date of 7/20/23 at 9:00am, at the Natchitoches Parish Courthouse.  He was released.


BARDID: LA-2023-0034
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-05-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:15:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Amite River
NearestCityTown: Prairieville
County: Ascension
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentCause3: Sharp turn
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On May 20, 2023, at approximately 1615 hours, two vessels were involved in an incident on the Amite River in Ascension Parish near Prairieville when they collided causing significant damage to both.  V1 Operator was operating Vessel 1 upstream on the Amite River. V2 Operator was operating Vessel 2 downstream on the Amite River.  Vessel 1 was traveling on the wrong side of the waterway cutting the bend in the river, while Vessel 2 was on the correct side of the waterway. As the Vessel's approached one another, Vessel 1 continued to maneuver toward the wrong side of the waterway in violation of Navigation Rules of the Road Number (13) in a narrow channel, vessels will keep to the right of mid-channel, in accordance with LRS. 34:851.4A. The operator of vessel 2 continued to maneuver toward the right of mid-channel acting in accordance with Navigation Rules of the Road Number (13), until a collision was unavoidable.
    Upon conclusion of the investigation, evidence indicated the primary cause of the incident was V1 Operator's violation of Navigation Rules of the Road Number (13), by failing to maintain his vessel on the correct side of the waterway. The secondary cause for the incident was operator inattention by V1 Operator. The tertiary cause for the incident was a sharp turn in the waterway that limited the reaction time of both operators. V1 Operator was subsequently issued citation for the violation of LRS. 34:851.4 Careless Operation of a Watercraft.
    Both operators reported having all the required safety equipment aboard their vessels and were in use respectively at the time of incident. It's undetermined if impairment was a factor at this time. There were no injuries reported.


BARDID: LA-2023-0035
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-05-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:15:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Tchefuncte River
NearestCityTown: Covington
County: St. Tammany
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
RedactedNarrative:
On Sunday May 21, 2023, I (Agt. 1) along with Lt. 2 and Sgt. 3 were on patrol in St. Tammany Parish when we were contacted by St. Tammany Parish Sheriffs Office about a potential boat accident on the Tchefuncte River. Agents made their way to the location of a boat launch on the Tchefuncte River. At this time it was found vessel operated by Operator was towing an inflatable tube occupied by a 17 year old and a 14 year old. The 14 year old identified as Injured was thrown from the tube into a tree along the bank. Injured suffered back injuries and was transported to St. Tammany Parish Hospital by Acadian Ambulance. The operator was cited for 34:851.4 Careless Operation. Alcohol use is not a factor, Sgt. 3 performed SFST HGN on Operator and no clues were observed. All PFD requirements were met. The boat was equipped with remote hydraulic steering. In this investigators opinion the contributing factors of the incident include excessive speed for the conditions resulting in the tubes collision with a fixed object.


BARDID: LA-2023-0036
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-04-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 07:00:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Barataria Waterway
NearestCityTown: Lafitte
County: Jefferson - 26
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause3: Improper lookout
AccidentEvent1: Collision with commercial vessel
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On April 29th, 2023, Vessel 1 (17’ Gator Tail) was traveling through Barataria Waterway searching for “The Pen.”  Vessel 1 was operated approximately 7:00 AM, Vessel 1 collided with Vessel 2 (38’ Commercial Skiff).  Upon speaking with all parties, the vessels were traveling in opposite directions in a head-on manner.  

OPERATOR1 was looking down at his cellphone in effort to locate “The Pen” and upon looking up saw Vessel 2.  OPERATOR1 immediately attempted to correct his heading from a head-on collision and turned to his port side which caused impact on the front starboard corner of Vessel 1 and bow damage to Vessel 2.  

Vessel 2 sustained moderate damage in the form of fiberglass tearing and puncture with fibers exposed in the center of the box above the water line.  Vessel 1 sustained paint transfer on the bow and front starboard corner as well as the front mounted dual led cube bracket was bent and torn from the bow.  Vessel 1 had a passenger who sustained injury to his foot in the form of an open break which protruded through the skin.  Vessel 2 had 3 passengers and no one on board reported any injuries.  Required, wearable PFDs were on the vessels, but were not used during the incident.  

The primary cause of the collision was the inattention of the operator of Vessel 1.  Secondary cause was Rules of the Road (#1 Vessels passing head-on shall keep to their respective right).   No alcohol is suspected in this incident.


BARDID: LA-2023-0037
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-05-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 08:36:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Mississippi River
NearestCityTown: Saint Francisville
County: West Feliciana
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with commercial vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent3: Fall in vessel
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
RedactedNarrative:
On 05/28/2023 a 16'4" Tracker fishing boat with 2 persons aboard was traveling downstream in the Mississippi River in West Feliciana Parish being operated by Operator.  There was one passenger on board. For unknown reasons , Operator steered his vessel in front of a large tugboat (M/V Frank Johnson, being operated by Captain) pushing 35 barges that was traveling upstream. 

The front starboard corner of Operator's vessel struck the front starboard barge of the M/V Frank Johnson (see diagram). V1 occupant was subsequently ejected into the river, killing her, and Operator stayed inside the boat, suffering life threatening injuries. Neither party (Operator or V1 occupant) was wearing a Pfd. The crew of M/V Frank Johnson was unharmed.

Operator was eventually transported to Our Lady of the Lake Hospital in Baton Rouge via AirMed. A blood sample was taken from him at the hospital, with results indicating he had a .178g% blood alcohol content.  Operator2 took a post-incident alcohol and drug test per USCG requirements, both of these tests were negative.

As the results of the investigation Operator was subsequently charged with:
LRS 14:99 - Reckless Operation
LRS 14:98 - Operate Vessel w/ Intoxicated
LRS 14:32.1 - Vehicular Homicide

At this time, V1 occupant is still unaccounted for and Operator is hospitalized.  Operator is under hospital care and has not yet given a statement.  PFD's were not in use.  Alcohol is suspected to be a contributing factor.  Vessel 1 is a 16'4" aluminum boat made by Tracker Marine.  There were no eye witnesses to the crash, but multiple people saw Operator and V1 occupant in Vessel 1 earlier in the day.


BARDID: LA-2023-0038
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-05-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:00:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Big Chene Blanc Bayou
NearestCityTown: Maurepas
County: Livingston
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On May 27, 2023 at approximately 7:00 PM it was reported that a single vessel accident w/ injuries had occurred on Big Chene Blanc Bayou (a public navigable waterway in Livingston Parish.)  It was further reported that the single vessel had lost control and crashed into the wood line. LDWF Enforcement Division Law-Enforcement agents responded to the area immediately.  Upon arriving on scene, agents identified the operator of the vessel.

Upon conclusion of subsequent investigation it was determined that Operator1 was operating at a high rate of speed while traveling upstream in the Big Chene Blanc Bayou when he lost control and the vessel veered sharply in a starboard direction, leaving the channel and entering the wood line nearly perpendicular to the channel. The starboard bow of the vessel made strong contact with a large tree trunk, along with the canopy striking the same tree that was hanging over the bank line. 

Per the operator's statement, passenger was thrown forward from behind the center console, and sustained a broken left leg which ultimately required corrective surgery. 

As a result of this incident and subsequent investigation Operator1 was charged with Operate vessel with intoxicated, reckless operation and 1st degree vehicular negligent injury.


BARDID: LA-2023-0039
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-05-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:30:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Gulf of Mexico
NearestCityTown: Grand Chenier
County: Cameron - 12
WaterConditions: Rough
HazardousWaters: Y
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Grounding
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1, a 16' Alumaweld powered by a 40 hp Yamaha (remote steering) was in the Gulf of Mexico, approximately one (1) mile West of the mouth of Headquarter Canal on Rockefeller Refuge in Cameron Parish.  This vessel was operated by Operator with two (2) other passengers.  The vessel was facing South approximately thirty (30) feet away from the rock jetties as the three (3) passengers fished.  The 4-6 (four to six) foot waves began to breach over the bow of the boat.  The three (3) passengers noticed water collecting near the stern of the vessel.  The operator attempted to start the motor, however his anchor line got caught in the prop and he could not start it.  The waves caused the boat to spin toward the rock jetties eventually grounding the boat into the jetties.    When at the scene there were two (2) Type II PFD's utilized and one Type IV PFD.    The operator was unsure if there was another Type II onboard and said it could have floated away during the flooding of the vessel.  Operator inexperience was the contributing factor regarding this incident.


BARDID: LA-2023-0040
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2023-03-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:20:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: lake borgne
NearestCityTown: Hopedale
County: St. Bernard
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Falls overboard
AccidentEvent3: Sinking
RedactedNarrative:
On March 12, 2023, LDWF agents were notified of a single vessel boating incident in Lake Borge, St.Bernard Parish. Agents were advised of a 20ft hydra sport bass boat having swamped in Lake Borgne due to rough weather conditions. 2 occupants had been retrieved on a nearby bank near Fort Beauregard. An additional 2 occupants were retrieved wearing PFDs, drifting nearby in Lake Borgne. Subjects were retrieved via commercial crabbing vessel and PWC. No injuries were reported nor is alcohol/drug use suspected. Charges pending


BARDID: LA-2023-0041
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-05-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 07:45:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Darbonne
NearestCityTown: Farmerville
County: Union - 56
WaterConditions: Calm
HazardousWaters: Y
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
RedactedNarrative:
On Saturday, May 27, 2023, at approximately 08:00am, I, Cpl. 1, received a call from the Union Parish Sheriff's Office (UPSO) about a boating accident that occurred on Lake Darbonne in Union Parish. Upon my arrival at Ramp Road, Deputies with the UPSO were already on scene and I witnessed a 15' aluminum vessel with a 15 hp Tohatsu motor lying on the back deck. I noticed blood spatter on the back deck and I was informed the operator had already been transported by Pafford Ambulance Service to St. Francis Medical Center in Monroe. Sgt. 2 arrived at my location to assist with the accident investigation. During my inspection of the vessel, I witnessed a type IV throwable and a type III PFD in the vessel. I witnessed the kill lanyard still attached to the motor and also the loose end was attached to a handle on the back deck with a carabiner. Neither alcohol nor drugs were suspected to be a factor during this investigation. A portion of the serial number tag was torn off and I was unable to get the full serial number for the motor.
             Operator's brother arrived at our location and took possession of the vessel and loaded it on the trailer. Photographs were taken of the vessel at the scene and they are attached to this report. I was advised by the Deputies that they were unsure of the vessel or operator that towed the injured party and damaged vessel back to shore.
             Sgt. 2 and I went to St. Francis Medical Center in Monroe to speak with Operator who was already at the emergency room. Upon our arrival, I made contact with Operator. I advised Operator of his Miranda Rights and he stated he understood them and agreed to speak with me. Operator stated he and his wife, Passenger, were fishing near Hwy 2 close to Forks Ferry boat ramp. Operator said that he had thrown out some fishing noodles and he was going to put his trolling motor in the water and realized it was locked up by a cable. Operator said that the key to unlock it was in his truck. He said that they started heading back to the truck with the outboard motor running. Operator said that he was about 40 yards from the channel and he felt the motor hit something under the surface of the water and the motor kicked up out of the water and into the vessel with him. Operator said that he was sitting on the portside of the vessel operating the tiller handle with his right hand. He stated that he was probably going 10-12mph. He said that he looked down and seen that his hand was cut badly by the propeller. He said that he was unsure of how the motor turned off. He said that a guy nearby fishing and another guy in a ski boat came to them and helped them back to the ramp. He did not know the people who helped him. Operator said that he and his wife were wearing their PFDs when the accident happened and that he was wearing his kill lanyard. I provided Operator with the operator boating incident report and asked him to fill it out and return it to me within five business days. Operator suffered a severe laceration to his left hand and also minor bruising and a scratch on his left hip. Operator stated he still had his PFD with him when they were transported by the ambulance.
              I then spoke with Passenger, and she provided me with a witness statement. The statement is attached to this report. Passenger statement claims that they hit something and the motor flew over Operator's head and hit his hand. She said she called 911 and another boat brought them back to shore. Passenger said that she was sitting in the front of the vessel when it occurred.
              On Wednesday, May 31, 2023, I met with Operator at the Macs Fresh Market on Arkansas Road in West Monroe. He provided me with the operator incident packet at this time. I asked Operator again about the kill lanyard and he stated that right after it happened he unclipped the kill lanyard from his person and clipped it on the handle on the back deck.


BARDID: LA-2023-0042
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-06-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:30:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Tickfaw
NearestCityTown: Killian, LA
County: Livingston
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
On 06/03/2023, a black in color Sea Doo PWC being operated and a Red/White colored PWC Yamaha Wave Runner was traveling up stream in the Tickfaw River side by side when Operator1 turned his PWC to port and into causing a collision with the other PWC right rear. As a result of this collision the other PWC suffered significant damage cracking the hull, causing it to take on water and partially sink. There were no injuries reported in this incident.

Both parties were wearing their PFD's as is required by regulation.
Alcohol is not suspected as being a factor in this incident. Operator1 was issued a citation for careless operation at the scene.


BARDID: LA-2023-0044
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-06-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:15:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Old Calcasieu River
NearestCityTown: Lake Charles
County: Calcasieu - 10
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause3: Excessive speed
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Type of incident:  Collision with Vessel. 
V1; 2019 12' Seadoo Jet Ski, Handle Bars Remote Steering.  V2; 22' Sea Ray Side Console Remote Steering.   
 On June 10, 2023 at approximately 11:15 a.m., LDWF Dispatch advised Region V Agents of a boating incident that occurred on Old Calcasieu River in Calcasieu Parish.  Upon arrival, Agents learned V1 and V2 were each heading east on Old River at approximately thirty (30)  MPH, when V2 came to an abrupt stop due to its vessel's safety feature (Rev limiter).  When V2 came to an abrupt stop, V1 was following too closely and collided with V2.    V1 operator was not paying attention and V1's bow struck V2's stern.  V1 operator was wearing a PFD and the kill switch lanyard was attached.  V1 operator was ejected.  V1 had no passengers.  V2 turned around and picked up V1 operator and loaded the V1 jet ski onto the stern deck of V2 to keep it from sinking.  V2 had one (1) operator and four (4) passengers.  No injuries were reported by V2.     V1 operator sustained minor sprain to the left wrist and was transported to St. Patrick's Hospital in Lake Charles.  After admittance, V1 operator advised of no other injuries found by medical diagnosis.  Evidence and statements were consistent with V1 at fault due to a primary contributing factor of operator inattention and a secondary contributing factor of careless operation due to violating rules of the road #16.  V1 was not believed to be operating at a reasonable speed for the given condition and situation, therefore was not in control of the vessel to avoid a collision.  No alcohol involved.  Damage to V1 is in excess of $500.00   V2 unknown at this time due to minimal fiberglass damage to stern decking.  34:851.4   Careless Operation.


BARDID: LA-2023-0045
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-06-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 07:36:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Bayou Bonne Idee
NearestCityTown: Mer Rouge - 34
County: Morehouse
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Operator was fishing from his vessel on Bayou Bonne Idee in Morehouse Parish. Operator did not have a PFD on and the vessel was stationary. The vessel had the required PFDs in the vessel at the time of the accident. The vessel is a stick-steer controlled vessel. The engine was not in use at the time of the accident. Operator's fishing line became stuck on a submerged object. Operator stepped up on the front deck of the vessel to untangle the line and lost his balance and fell into the front section of the vessel between the front seat and front deck. Operator was unable to right himself and called 911 for assistance. Operator was assisted by a passing boater.  The good Samaritan pulled Operator's vessel to the landing where EMS began to assess Operator. I made contact with Operator at the boat ramp and did not suspect any drug or alcohol use. Operator's only complaint was that his left leg was hurt and he could not move it. The knee cap appeared to be dislocated. Operator informed me that he had several preexisting cardiac conditions and a pacemaker. Operator was transported by EMS to St. Francis Medical Center in Monroe LA.

Operator's left knee was injured from the fall and will require surgery to reattach a torn ligament. His surgery is scheduled for June 16, 2023.


BARDID: LA-2023-0046
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-06-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:30:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Darbonne
NearestCityTown: Farmerville
County: Union - 56
WaterConditions: Rough
HazardousWaters: Y
Wind: Storm
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
AccidentCause3: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
On Saturday, June 10, 2023, Sgt. 2 and I, 1 were on patrol in Union Parish. A storm moved into the area at approximately 2:30pm and the winds and rain were very rough. As Sgt. 2 and I were crossing Lake Darbonne we witnessed a vessel being slammed against the sea wall at Folley Beach just off of LA Hwy 33. I witnessed a couple white males in the boat and another white male standing on the shore. Sgt. 2 and I stopped to assist as we noticed the boat taking on water and the occupants struggling with the vessel.

Upon making contact, I identified the male on the bank as Owner. I knew Owner and told him that we had to get what we could out of the vessel and that in the current conditions there was nothing we could do for it. I jumped into the boat and helped removed several items and I turned the bilge pump switch on before exiting. I instructed the other two young males, Operator and Passenger 1, to exit the vessel as well. I tied the vessel to the sea wall and told Owner that when the storm passed we would conduct a boat accident investigation. I had to leave the scene to assist with two other ongoing boating accidents on the lake.

After the storm passed, Corporal 3 assisted them with recovering/towing the vessel and he also provided the operator, the operator incident packet. Cpl. 3 located the witnesses and also provided them with witness statements. All of the documents were returned to the Union Parish Sheriff's Office (UPSO) upon completion. Cpl. 3 photographed the vessel and provided me with those photos. They are attached to this report.
              
On Wednesday, June 14, 2023, I obtained the operator incident packet from and the witness statements. I also made contact with Owner and went to his residence for further investigation of the vessel. While at his residence I photographed the motor, motor serial number, and HIN on the vessel. Owner also provided me with photographs of the hull and trolling motor. All of these photographs are attached to this report. 
               
Operator's statement says that he noticed the storm starting to move in and they packed up their belongings and started heading for the shore. Operator said that he was having motor problems and the motor was not wanting to stay cranked once he put it in gear. Operator stated that he was forced to use his electronic trolling motor to try and get to the nearest shore, which was Folley Beach. Once there, he said that the two female passengers, Passenger 3 and Passenger 2, exited the vessel safely. He said at that time is when myself and Sgt. 2 arrived and we started collecting belongings and tied the vessel off. Operator stated that both of the female passengers were wearing their PFDs during the incident.
              
Passenger 1, Passenger 2, and Passenger 3 all provided witness statements. All of these statements align with Operator's. These witness statements are attached to this report. There were no injuries during this incident. Neither alcohol nor drugs were suspected to be used during this incident.


BARDID: LA-2023-0048
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-06-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:30:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: ICW
NearestCityTown: Morgan City
County: St.Mary
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Restricted vision
AccidentCause3: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Collision with floating object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On June 12th, 2023 at 6:00 P.M., Sgt. received information that a boat incident occurred in St. Mary parish. Sgt. was advised that one vessel was traveling west in Bayou Boeuf where they did not yield for the cable ferry or notice that the cable ferry was traversing the waterway. Due to this, the subjects struck the cables. This caused both subjects to fall to the floor of the vessel. The subjects motor was damaged by the cables, the cables ripped the tiller handle off of the outboard motor. The operator was able to operate his vessel back to the boat launch where they put it on the trailer. At this time no injuries were reported. Sgt. arrived at the cable ferry where the cable ferry operator was off for the day so no further information was gained. 
               On June 13th, 2023, Sgt. and Agt. was advised that one of the subjects arrived at the hospital due to bruised ribs on his right side. Occupant1 stated they were going fishing when they did not see the cables in the water for the ferry. They continued forward movement and hit the cables. Occupant1 stated the engine never shut off and operator was not wearing the required engine cutoff lanyard.

Neither subject was wearing a personal flotation device, the vessel is a 18' homemade skiff powered by a 25 horsepower mercury tiller steer outboard. At this time, agents believe the contributing factor in this incident is directly related to not maintaining a proper lookout. Alcohol and/or drugs are not believed to be contributing factors in this incident.


BARDID: LA-2023-0049
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-05-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:24:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Ouachita River
NearestCityTown: Monroe
County: Ouachita
WaterConditions: Calm
HazardousWaters: Y
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
AccidentCause3: Equipment failure
EquipmentFailure: Auxiliary
OtherEquipmentFailure: tow rope
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
V1, a console operated Seacrest houseboat, was stationary at a sandbar on the Ouachita River. V2, a console operated Malibu. V2 was secured to V1 by rope on starboard, bow cleat, and the starboard, stern cleat. V1 reversed off of the sandbar with V2 in tow. V2 was not under power and had no occupants on board. V1 was under power and had 11 total occupants on board the vessel. V1 Operator was the operator of V1. As V1 was began being operated North on the Ouachita River, the vessel encountered a strong current at the bend of the river. This caused the starboard, bow rope to tighten, which caused it to break. When the rope broke, V2 began to take on water, and ultimately caused V2 to almost fully submerge. The flotation of V2, and the rope on the starboard, stern cleat not breaking, prevented it from fully submerging.  Multiple occupants on board V1 jumped in the water and secured another line to the starboard, bow of V2. V1 then towed V2 back to the sandbar. V2 was secured to a stationary object on the sandbar, and was recovered from the scene on the morning of 5/29/2023. V1 Operator did not have the kill switch attached to her person. No occupants on board V1 were wearing PFDs. Contributing factors to this incident are (1) Excessive Speed for the water conditions, (2) Force of Wake/Wave due to the strong current, and (3) Fault of Equipment due to the rope that secured the Malibu to the Seacrest breaking under tension. The owner of both boats had completed the USCG Boaters Education course and was on board the Seacrest at the time of the incident.


BARDID: LA-2023-0050
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-06-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:45:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Ouachita River
NearestCityTown: Monroe
County: Ouachita
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Grounding
RedactedNarrative:
On the afternoon of Wednesday June 7, 2023 Operator1 and her father, Father, put in on the Ouachita River at Forsythe Park.  Operator1 was driving the vessel.  They went north on the river to see if they could find any fishing spots for a future date.  

At some point during the trip, the trim went out on the motor.  The motor was in an up positions so Father decided to use the trolling motor to get back to Forsythe Park since they were not real far from the landing.  

At approximately 6:45 pm the trolling motor quit working.  Father looked back at operator, who was sitting in the drivers seat, and saw water starting to come up around her feet.  Operator1 then opened the battery compartment and discovered it was full of water.  

The bilge pump was not working so she started to motor, which was in the water enough to move the boat, and drove it to the east bank of the river.  During the excitement they forgot to pull the trolling motor up, so when they hit the bank it snapped the shaft of the trolling motor.  Once on the bank, they tied the boat off to a tree and the rear of the vessel sank to the bottom. No drug or alcohol use is suspected, and PFD's were worn.

     On the afternoon of Tuesday June 13, 2023 I, Sgt., assisted Father in getting the vessel back on the trailer.  When he pulled it out of the water, I looked to see if the plug was in it, and it was.  With it on the trailer, I could not really get under it enough to see if it had a crack in the hull or not, but from what I could see it looked in good condition.  I thought that a hose to the aerator pumps or bilge pump may have come loose in the rear compartment, but with it on the trailer no water was leaking out of the boat.  The plug had to be pulled out for the vessel to drain.  It is unknown why the vessel took on water.


BARDID: LA-2023-0051
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-06-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 08:00:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Darbonne
NearestCityTown: Farmerville
County: Union
WaterConditions: Rough
HazardousWaters: Y
Wind: Storm
Visibility: Poor
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Sinking
RedactedNarrative:
On Sunday, June 18, 2023 at approximately 8:00 a.m., Sgt. 2 and I, Cpl 1 received a call from Union Parish Sheriffs Office that a boat had sank on Lake Darbonne. At approximately 8:25 we arrived on scene. We made contact with the operator at a residence where he was able to get his boat inside a boat house while it was sinking. Operator had been fishing on Lake Darbonne when a severe thunderstorm and high wind popped up. Operator tried to drive his boat back to the boat ramp but the wind and waves were to bad. At this point Operator boat started taking on water and he drove his boat into an empty boat house. The boat sank even more when he pulled inside the boat house. Operator was able to tie his boat up and get to safety on dry ground. Operator was able to call for assistance after he got service. 

        Operator was wearing his life jacket and kill switch while his boat was sinking. The major factors for the boat accident were weather and force of the waves that caused the accident. There was no injuries and no suspected alcohol use in the incident.


BARDID: LA-2023-0052
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-06-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:00:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Coquille
NearestCityTown: Delacroix
County: St. Bernard
WaterConditions: Rough
HazardousWaters: Y
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Poor
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: Overloading
AccidentCause3: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On June 20th, 2023 subjects launched at approximately 12:00pm from Sweetwater Marina, Delacroix, LA. The Captain of the vessel was operating a 16ft Gheenoe in Lake Coquille when at approximately 4:00pm a severe storm enveloped the immediate area of the boaters causing rough seas. The captain reported that he put the bow into the waves and attempted to find land but did not. The vessel started to take waves over the port side, flooding the boat and sinking it. 

The boat was reported to capsize on the port side. The two subjects stayed with the partially submerged vessel for multiple hours before swimming to a nearby island. Only the bow of the vessel was above the water line after its sinking. The water depth was 7ft at this time at the scene of the accident. The subjects then stayed on the island overnight. At approximately 10:00am June 21st the subjects flagged down a good Samaritan who brought them to Sweetwater Marina, Delacroix, LA. The subjects were checked by EMS and interviewed by LDWF agents. Alcohol is not believed to be a contributing factor. Life Jackets (type 5) were used. No injuries were reported.


BARDID: LA-2023-0054
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2023-06-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:00:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Bayou Biloxi
NearestCityTown: Shell Beach
County: St. Bernard
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Hull failure
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
On June 13, 2023 at approximately 10:00AM operator was operating his brothers 19 foot Grady White fiberglass vessel. He had 3 people on the vessel with him. All 4 subjects were fishing in Biloxi Bayou. Operator1 then decided to move the vessel to a different location. He started the vessels engine and idled the vessel forward in the bayou. 

While idling the vessel, all 4 people heard a loud crack from the transom. The people on the vessel had noticed the transom had failed and the motor was hanging off the boat. Operator1 then idled to the closest bank where the vessel sank in approximately 3 feet of water. All four subjects were later rescued by the St. Bernard Sheriffs office Marine Division. During the time of the incident all 4 subjects claimed to be wearing the required PFD's. Alcohol and drugs are not a factor in this incident. The vessel had helm steering. The 4 subjects later stated that the vessel was infested with termites and they were the reason the transom had failed.


BARDID: LA-2023-0055
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-06-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:00:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Sabine Pass
NearestCityTown: Port Arthur Texas
County: Cameron - 12
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
RedactedNarrative:
At approximately 12:00 P.M. Vessel 1 16'8" Ranger with remote steer was at anchor fishing near rock jetties on the east bank in Sabine Pass.  Vessel 1 was occupied by two (2) subjects.  Neither of the two (2) subjects were wearing their PFD's during the time of the incident.  

Operator stated that he had the kill switch lanyard attached to his person even though the engine was not running.  Operator of Vessel 1 claims that a large offshore tanker traveling southbound had a wake causing Vessel 1 to run aground on the rock jetties.  

Operator of Vessel 1 also claims that vessel as it was capsizing causing them to enter the water.  The operator sustained minor injury to his right knee caused by striking an unknown object but refused any medical attention.  Neither occupants in vessel 1 were able to identify the large offshore vessel.  No alcohol or drugs are suspected to be a factor in this incident.  Based off of the investigation, the contributing factors are force of wakes causing Vessel 1 to be grounded on rock jetties and subsequent wakes causing Vessel 1 to capsize on the east side of rock jetties inside an impoundment.  Both occupants of Vessel 1 were thrown overboard during the incident.


BARDID: LA-2023-0057
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-06-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake D'Arbonne
NearestCityTown: Farmerville
County: Union - 56
WaterConditions: Rough
HazardousWaters: Y
Wind: Storm
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
AccidentCause2: Weather
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Grounding
RedactedNarrative:
On June 10, 2023 at approximately 3:00 p.m. operator was operating a vessel on Lake D'Arbonne when a strong storm came in rapidly. The storm caused swells of waves to form on the lake.  Operator was backing away from the dock at Jake's Landing in an attempt to place his vessel on his trailer.  The reversing action of the vessel accompanied with the large waves caused the vessel to be swamped.  The vessel was overtaken by a wave from the stern filling the vessel with water. Operator's vessel was then grounded by the wind and wave action. Once the storm had passed Operator and his passenger were able to manually load the vessel on the trailer. 

Drugs and/or alcohol were not a factor in the incident. PFD's were used by both Operator and his passenger. The vessel had remote steering. The weather combined with the waves action, it created, were the primary causes of this incident.


BARDID: LA-2023-0058
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-06-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:20:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: bayou la loutre
NearestCityTown: Hopedale
County: St. Bernard
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentCause3: Force of wake/wave
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On June 28 2023 at approximately 4:20PM, Cpl and Agt were notified of a two vessel boating incident occurring in Bayou La Loutre St. Bernard Parish. Agents arrived on scene and identified Vessel 1 operator. The vessel he had been operating, which had grounded itself, was located on a nearby bank of Bayou La Loutre (29'48.458/89'37.808). Through questioning, agents determined his vessel (vessel 1) had been overtaken by an unknown vessel (vessel 2) in Bayou La Loutre, when it struck vessel 2's wake. 

The wake caused vessel 1 to turn hard starboard and ground itself on the bank off Hopedale Hwy. The sudden turn resulted in Operator1 being thrown from the vessel over the port side. A nearby commercial crabber assisted Operator1 from the water approximately 3-4 minutes after the incident. Once on shore, Operator1 approached his vessel and turned the motor to the off position, which was still running out the the water . No alcohol or drug use suspected. No PFD or kill switch used during the incident. Seatow has recovered the vessel. Vessel number 2 and the operator has not been identified as of 6-29-2023. Further investigation needed to identify vessel 2.  Charges pending.


BARDID: LA-2023-0059
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-06-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:20:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Bay Eloi
NearestCityTown: Hopedale
County: St.bernard
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On June 27 2023 at approximately 10:30PM, Cpl and Lt. were notified of a single vessel collision occurring in Bay Eloi, St. Bernard Parish. Cpl. participated in SAR efforts with SBPSO marine division. 

The vessel, which had struck a cement jetty and subsequently grounded itself, was located at approximately 11:45 PM. Both occupants were retrieved from the grounded vessel and relocated to Hopedale Marina.  

Operator was transported to UMC via air lift due to severe injuries, with occupant following with minor injuries. Charges are pending. Agent awaiting sign off for search warrants of GPS device and medical records. Records will identify if Operator was under the influence at the time of the incident. Agents determined PFDs were not used and vessel's kill switch was not used. A full vessel inventory was completed on 6-28-2023.


BARDID: LA-2023-0061
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake D'Arbonne
NearestCityTown: Farmerville
County: Union - 56
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentEvent1: Person struck by vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On July 4, 2023 at approximately 5:00pm, operator1 was operating a vessel on Lake D'Arbonne. While Operator1 was leaving an area used by the public for swimming and other in water activities Operator1 ran over a male subject.  Victim was floating in the water near another vessel. 

 Witnesses informed Operator1 that he had hit someone and tried to get him to stop. Operator1 drove his vessel to Jake's Boat Landing, where he was met by members of the Farmerville Police Department and the Union Parish Sheriffs Office. 

 Operator1 was detained by officers until LDFW Enforcement Agents arrived. 

 Operator1 vessel was identified as the vessel that struck Victim and Operator1 was identified the driver of the vessel at the time it struck Victim by a witness to the incident. 

 Operator1 submitted to field sobriety and Intoxilyzer testing, preformed by LDWF Enforcement Agents.
     
 Operator1 was booked for violation of L.R.S. 14:98 - Driving while Intoxicated and L.R.S. 14:100 - Hit and Run. 
  
 Victim was treated on scene by Pafford EMS but refused further medical treatment.


BARDID: LA-2023-0062
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Joseph Harbor Canal
NearestCityTown: Grand Chenier
County: Cameron - 12
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
On Monday, June 10, 2023 V1, (16' Tracker with a 40 HP Tiller Steer) was drifting south in the mouth of Joseph Harbor Canal.  The operator and one (1) passenger were fishing.  Operator observed that they were nearing the rock jetties, and attempted to start his outboard motor to maneuver away from the rocks but it failed to start.  

He then tried to use his trolling motor to move away from the rocks.  However, both the outgoing tide and wind overpowered the trolling motor and caused vessel to ground on  the rock jetty. The prevailing wind and tide drug it from the west side of the jetties (canal side), south into the gulf, and back along the east side of the jetty (gulf side), striking the rocks the entire way.  The lower unit of the motor was ripped off, the sides were dented and scraped on the rocks, and a possible gouge/tear took place on the starboard side/mid-ship which caused the vessel to flood.  Operator exited V1 and climbed onto the rocks.   Occupant then exited and pulled the boat to the beach, where it flooded in the surf zone.  Alcohol nor drugs were a factor.  PFD's were used.  Operator sustained minor scraps from climbing onto the rock jetties.  Contributing factor was #1,  Other:  Engine Failed to Start.


BARDID: LA-2023-0064
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:22:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Mermentau River
NearestCityTown: Mermentau
County: Acadia - 1
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Electrocution
RedactedNarrative:
On 07/22/2023 at approximately 2:20 P.M., Operator was operating a 32' sailboat bearing registration (v1) upstream in the Mermentau River near the highway 90 bridge in Mermentau with five (5) additional passengers.  

V1 was under power by an inboard engine with remote steering and not by sail at the time of the incident.  V1 crossed under a powerline just north of the bridge when its mast or antenna on top of the mast potentially struck a power line and electrocuted a passenger in V1 who was holding on to a cable with one hand and his other arm was wrapped around the bare metal pole of a Bimini top.  According to witnesses, the injured became unconscious and CPR was performed for approximately one (1) minute when he came to.  

V1 then docked to a nearby barge where the injured was treated by medical personnel and then airlifted to Lord's Regional Hospital in Lafayette.  Operator showed no signs of impairment and there was no alcoholic beverages on board.  PFD's were present however they were not used at the time of the incident.  V1 is not equipped with a kill switch.  Operator has no boating education and less than twenty (20) hours of experience operating a sailboat.  Primary contributing factor would be operator inattention and secondary contributing factor would be operator inexperience.
Citation was issued for: 34:851.20A, 34:851.24F (1), and 34:851.36.


BARDID: LA-2023-0066
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-05-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:45:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Bayou Rigaud
NearestCityTown: GRAND ISLE
County: JEFFERSON
WaterConditions: Calm
CongestedWaters: Y
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Missing or inadequate navigation aids
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause3: Congested waters
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
RedactedNarrative:
On May 14, 2023, LDWF Enforcement Agents were notified of a boat incident that occurred in Grand Isle, Jefferson Parish at approximately 2:00 P.M., via LDWF Communications. LDWF Communications also provided agents with the operator’s contact information. Agent contacted the operator via cell phone. 

Operator1 stated that they were in a 31 foot, fiberglass, open motorboat powered by remote steered twin Suzuki 300 horsepower outboard engines. He stated that they were in Grand Isle, travelling westward, in Bayou Rigaud, heading to Hurricane Hole. While navigating in the bayou, he stated that he saw some buoys and markers along with work crew(s) and barges. He stated that while he was attempting to go around the congestion, he struck a submerged object. After striking the submerged object, Operator1 noticed that the port side engine was damaged and almost ripped off of the transom. 

The nearby work crew helped him in removing the engine and placing it in his boat. After, Operator1 stated he was on his way back to Cypress Cove Marina in Plaquemines Parish under the power of the starboard engine. Agent asked how many passengers were on board. Operator1 stated that there were 12 passengers in total on board the vessel. He stated that there were 15 PFD’s onboard. The PFD’s included (2) Type 1 PFD’s, (2) Type 2 PFD’s, (10) Type 3 PFD’s, and (1) Type 4 PFD’s. Operator1 stated that the 5 occupants under the age of 17 were wearing PFD’s at the time of the incident. Operator1 stated that the boat was equipped with an engine cutoff lanyard, but was not attached/affixed to him during the time of the incident.
           
Agents found the unusual nature of the dredge pipe being suspended opposed to resting on the bottom of the bayou to be the primary contributing factor as the cause of the incident. Secondly, Agents believe operator inexperience was a contributing factor due to the fact that an experienced operator would have seen the complicated situation and came off step before proceeding through the area. Third, Agents found the waterway to be congested with work barges, work boats, and exposed dredge piping and materials. Agents believe the congested waterway (channel) led operator to divert his course northbound leading to the incident. Lastly, Agents believe the tertiary cause of the incident was due to not following Rule of the Road number 16, which states that all vessels shall be operated at reasonable speeds for given conditions and situations and must be under the complete control of the operator at all times.


BARDID: LA-2023-0067
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-06-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:30:00
State: LA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Duck Lake
NearestCityTown: Patterson
County: St.Martin
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Unseen water hazard
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On 6/29/2023 operator was entering Duck Lake from twenty-one canal in St. Martin Parish. Operator was operating vessel which is a 20’ tiller steer, aluminum bateau, powered by a 70 HP Yamaha outboard. Agents went to hospital but were unable to speak to Operator due to him being transported to Thibodaux Regional Hospital to undergo surgery. On 7/1/2023, agents were able to speak to Operator where he was read his rights as per Miranda. Operator stated he understood and knowledgably waived. 

While entering Duck Lake, Operator stated he struck a submerged object and it jerked the motor out of his hand. Operator was not wearing a personal flotation device but was wearing the kill switch. Operator also stated to agents that he tried to reach for the handle, the vessel dug into the water, he hit his knee on the gunwale, and was then thrown from the vessel. 

Operator stated the passenger was able to get Operator out of the water and head back to Wilsons Landing in Patterson. Operator was transported to Ochsner Hospital in St. Mary Parish where he was then transported to Thibodaux Regional Hospital and underwent surgery for a broken knee. Alcohol and/or drugs are not contributing factors in this incident.


