# ReleasableAccidents

BARDID: GA-2023-0029
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-03-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
State: GA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Brunswick River
NearestCityTown: BRUNSWICK
County: GLYNN
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: Y
HazardousWaters: Y
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Poor
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On 3/25/2023, I Corporal, heard a call dispatched in reference to a water rescue in the Brunswick River.  I arrived on scene at Liberty Ship Park and learned that a 22’ Key West was taking on water and sinking in the Brunswick River.  We did not have an exact location of the vessel, just that it was in the Brunswick River.  U.S. Coast Guard was launching a vessel from the Brunswick Office about the same time I arrived on scene.  The operator of the boat was able to see the Red ATON #26, I relayed that information to Coast Guard, and they responded to the area.  Coast Guard was able to retrieve both vessel occupants from the water and bring them back to the Brunswick Office unharmed.  The weather was inclement, with extremely high winds, hard rain and hail.  

	Operator told me he was fishing in front of Quarantine Island waiting on the inclement weather to the north to move on.  The storm started to build and move towards him, the wind started picking up.  It started to rain and thunder and lightning.  Heavy winds accompanied hail and heavy rains.  Operator said he went to the bow of his boat to get the trolling motor up and by the time he made it back to the helm, it was raining so hard he couldn’t see anything.  He attempted to turn and put the bow into the wind and waves.  The wind blew so hard it caused the boat to lean to the side and take on water.  The boat leaned so fast that his passenger fell and slid from one side of the boat to the other before the boat capsized and flipped over.  
	
	They were able to hold onto the capsized boat until the US Coast Guard arrived and retrieved them from the water.  Once at the Region Office I was able to interview them and get a statement on video.  I gave Operator a copy of the report number as well as my contact information.  Tow Boat US was able to respond and correct the vessel and get it on the trailer.


BARDID: GA-2023-0030
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-05-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:40:00
State: GA
NameOfBodyOfWater: St. Mary's River
NearestCityTown: ST MARYS
County: CAMDEN
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: Y
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
On 5/20/2023 I, Cpl., responded to a boating incident in Camden County.  I met with the owner of a 43’ Motevideo sail boat.  Subject told me he and his family were traveling north along the coast when they reached the St. Mary’s Shipping Channel.  Subject said they crossed the channel and struck the jetties on the north side of the channel.  Subject said he did not notice the jetties on his chart.  
	
Subject’s boat began taking on water, but his bilge pumps were able to keep up with the incoming water.  He took his boat to Pt. Peter and tied up to a private dock for the night.  The next day the boat was taken out on the railway to assess the damage.  The keel of the vessel sustained some moderate damages.  There was a hole knocked in the keel where the boat struck the jetty.  I have attached photographs of the damage the vessel contained.  
	
Subject told me the damages would reach around $5,500 if he assisted in the work.  I asked him if he would be making an insurance claim and he said no.

No further.


BARDID: GA-2023-0032
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:45:00
State: GA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Ocmulgee River
NearestCityTown: WARNER ROBINS
County: HOUSTON
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: Y
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Unseen water hazard
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
On July 3, 2023, at approximately 1800 hours, Game Wardens were called about a boating incident on the Ocmulgee River. There were three occupants aboard the boat when it struck an object in the water and started to take on water. Dispatch advised that they received one call but couldn’t get back in touch with the individual who first called. The caller was a passenger on the boat. 

	GW made contact with Caller to find out where they were exactly located. They had launched the boat at Knowles Landing near Highway 96. Caller also told GW they had a friend already in route to pick them up and bring them back to Knowles Landing. GW and I arrived at Knowles Landing at 1925 hours. 

	Subject1 explained that it was his boat that sank, and he was the one operating it. Subject1 stated that they were cruising up the river when they hit an unidentified object in the water that broke their transom. The boat started taking on water, but everyone on board was able to throw on a life vest and make it to shore. GW asked everyone aboard if they needed any medical attention. Everyone aboard denied needing any medical attention. Subject1 advised that the crash happened around 1545 hours. According to Subject1 the boat was an 18-foot Challenger bass boat with a 140-hp Suzuki engine. Subject1 advised us that he is working with his insurance company to recover the boat out of the river.


BARDID: GA-2023-0033
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-05-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 07:00:00
State: GA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Savannah River
NearestCityTown: SYLVANIA
County: SCREVEN
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: Y
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Unknown
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent3: Flooding/swamping
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
RedactedNarrative:
On April 26, 2023, I GWFC was dispatched to Blue Springs Boat Landing for a boat that had been recovered. Before responding to the location, I collected the boat registration from Subject1 and contacted the last registered owner. Owner informed me that her boyfriend, Subject2, was the person that should be with the boat and was known to be staying at her houseboat in another state. 

	I arrived at Blue Springs Boat Landing around 2:00pm and met with Subject1. Subject1 informed me that he noticed the bow of a boat sticking out of the water near a log jam. He then tied his PWC (Personal Watercraft) to the bow line of the boat to pull it out of the log jam. When Subject1 began pulling the boat, it came out of the water and planed out. Subject1 did not want the boat to sink again so he towed the boat to Blue Springs Boat Landing and called 911 to report the boat. I viewed the boat and made several observations. My observations are as follows: the throttle position was in neutral, the kill switch was still in place, the light switch for external lights mounted on the boat was in the on position, the only loose object in the boat was a gig, and the boat did not appear to have any damage other than scrapes and dents (normal damage for an aluminum hulled boat used on the Savannah River). 

	Subject1 showed me the location he recovered the boat from, and I collected multiple items from the water down river of the boat’s location. I then Located Owner’s houseboat, which was also down river from the boat’s location. I was unsuccessful with contacting Subject2 at the Houseboat. However, I did contact subject3 who later reported that he gained entry to the houseboat, and it appeared Subject2 had packed up to leave. I checked Subject2's truck that was parked at Poor Robin Boat Landing and did not find anything unusual. Subject4 reported seeing Subject2 in Pikes Creek at 5:00pm on April 25, 2023. 

With information collected through investigation, it appeared unlikely that Subject2 had exited the river. I began working the area the boat was located with side scan sonar. Game Wardens continued to search the area for Subject2's location on April 27, 2023, and April 28, 2023. On April 28,2023 at 10:30am, Cpl. located Subject2’s body floating in the river. Subject2 and his belongings were released to the Screven County Coroner and Subject2 was pronounced dead at the scene. Sgt. notified Owner that Subject2’s Body had been located and that Subject2 had drown in the river. Owner’s boat and trailer were stored at River Side Repair. 

On April 25, 2023, sometime after 5:00pm, Subject2’s boat capsized on the Savannah River, South of Pike Creek. As result of the boat capsizing, Subject2 entered the water and drowned in the Savannah River.


BARDID: GA-2023-0034
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-02-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:30:00
State: GA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Ogeechee River
NearestCityTown: MIDVILLE
County: BURKE
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: Y
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent3: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On the listed date at approximately 1400 hrs., I received a call in reference to a boating incident at the listed location. Cpl. and I responded to the incident location. Upon arrival, I met with Chief, of the Midville Police Department. He stated that the listed vessel operator and occupant were transported to Doctors Hospital for treatment by Burke County EMA. 

Chief secured the vessel at the scene. I found that the listed vessel was secured at the boat ramp. The vessel had moderate damage (large dent) to the starboard bow. Tree bark and soil were found on the bow. Estimated cost of damage is unknown. No witness were found at time of incident. Game Warden responded to Doctors Hospital to speak with the operator and occupant. 

A written statement was taken from the operator at the Hospital. The operator stated that he was traveling West on the Ogeechee River when he encountered a bend. He attempted to down throttle when he actually throttled the vessel causing the vessel to run into an overhanging tree. The overhanging tree struck the operator and occupant causing the operator to lose control of the vessel. 

The vessel then struck the bank causing the occupant to be ejected and the operator to be thrown into the floorboard. The operator and occupant sustained lacerations to the head. The occupant also sustained injuries to her right leg (broken femur). The operator further stated that he retrieved the ejected occupant from the water and drove them to the boat ramp where he called 911. The occupant was admitted to Doctors Hospital for treatment. 

Game Wardens investigation found that the damage to the vessel is consistent to the operator’s statement.  The operator and occupant were wearing a type 3 non-inflatable PFD. Game Wardens found that the cause of the incident was due to operator inexperience with that type of vessel. The vessel and vehicle of the operator were taken to the operators’ residence by Chief on request.


BARDID: GA-2023-0042
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:52:00
State: GA
NameOfBodyOfWater: West Point Lake
NearestCityTown: LAGRANGE
County: TROUP
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On July 08, 2023, at approximately 1255 hours, Corporal received a call about a boating incident at Highland Marina on West Point Lake. No injuries were reported but there was damage to both vessels involved. I, Game Warden was notified by Cpl. and arrived first on scene at approximately 1352 hours. Upon arrival, I met with a Highland Marina staff member to discuss the incident. She informed me that two vessels were involved in the incident. Her concern was the striking vessel because it was a Highland Marina rental vessel that was just rented for the day. She wanted to be sure a report was done for insurance purposes. After speaking with the staff member, I talked to the owner/operator of the vessel that was struck.

The owner/operator of the Starcraft (V01) that was struck quickly explained the incident upon my arrival. Subject1 explained that he and his wife were docked in their vessel at a boat slip at Highland Marina when they noticed a pontoon boat behind them. The pontoon boat was later identified as the Trifecta pontoon (V02), rented to operator2. 

Subject1 explained to me that Operator2 was drifting in reverse behind him as they pulled out of the dock slip. While behind Subject1’s vessel (V01), Operator2 put the vessel in forward gear and quickly jolted the vessel forward towards V01. 

At the point when Operator2 realized what happened, she took it out of forward gear. The forward momentum was too great and V02 struck V01 on the motor and rear starboard side. The damage sustained on V01 included chipping of the fiberglass on the rear starboard corner of the vessel, detached corner of the seadeck, and a scratch going across the cowling of the outboard. The damage sustained on V02 was a disconnected rub rail on the starboard side and dent in the aluminum rail on the front starboard corner of the vessel.

No further damage was found by our investigation. Cpl. informed me that Operator2 told him that the throttle was sticking in reverse and that is what caused her to loose control. Cpl. examined the throttle and found no obvious issues to cause lack of control.

-Interviews with vessel operators and parties involved recorded on body worn camera.


BARDID: GA-2023-0043
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-03-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 06:00:00
State: GA
NameOfBodyOfWater: West Point Lake
NearestCityTown: LAGRANGE
County: TROUP
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
RedactedNarrative:
On March 24th, 2023, at approximately 0624 hours, I, Game Warden (G.W.), was notified of a possible drowning on West Point Lake by Georgia State Patrol (GSP) Dispatch Newnan. GSP advised that an individual fell into the water and the father on board the vessel was performing CPR with EMS enroute. 

Two other occupants on board were identified. After arriving on scene at approximately 0830 hours, I talked with Officer, with Troup County Sheriff’s Office. Officer1 stated that the individuals launched their boat at approximately 2100 or 2200 hours at Horace King Boat Landing on West Point Lake on March 23rd, 2023, and tied their vessel under the GA-109 bridge to do some fishing. 

Officer1 stated that the victim was at the stern of the vessel, subject2 was in the middle of the vessel, and Subject3 was at the Bow or front of the vessel when they heard a splash and Victim went in the water and yelled to help him in the boat. 

Subject2 and Subject3 directed Victim to the back of the vessel where they could attempt to pull him on board the boat. Victim swam to the rear of the vessel, and it was noted that Subject2 and Subject3 said Victim was a good swimmer. 

Subject2 and Subject3 struggled to lift Victim in the boat with the motor of the vessel in the way. After finally pulling Victim on board the boat, Victims eyes rolled back and he closed his eyes. Subject2 then called for help and he started CPR on Victim. EMS and Troup County Sherriff’s Office arrived at approximately 0615 hours and EMS started performing life saving measures. EMS then transported Victim to WellStar Hospital in Lagrange, Georgia. At approximately, 0728 hours medical personnel at the hospital pronounced Victim as deceased. The coroner then showed up shortly after and pronounced Victim deceased. The coroner labeled the death as natural death. 
	I arrived at the hospital and interviewed Subject2 and Subject3 of the incident. Both of their stories lined up with Officer1’s statement of the incident located under the GA-109 bridge on West Point Lake. Subject2 and Subject3 stated that Victim was not under water for any period that they witnessed. It was noted that Victim had several medical issues that could have been the reason for death. I documented all the information and took photos of the vessel and left the hospital at approximately 1015 hours.


BARDID: GA-2023-0045
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-05-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:54:00
State: GA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Allatoona Lake
NearestCityTown: CARTERSVILLE
County: BARTOW
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On 05/26/2023 at approximately 1854 hours Corporal and I, Game Warden responded to a boating incident at Block House Boat Ramp. Once on scene I made contact with the operator of V1. 

	Operator 1 advised his truck and trailer were backed down the far-left boat ramp. He was attempting to load his vessel onto the trailer. Operator 1 overshot the trailer, he put his vessel into reverse and the current started pushing him sideways. Operator 1 started to panic. He began accelerating forward and missed the trailer. At this time the Bow of V1 impacted the Port side of V2. Operator 1 stated no one was injured during this incident.

	I made contact with the Operator of V2 who stated his truck and trailer were backed down the center boat ramp. He was attempting to winch his boat onto his trailer when V1 missed his trailer and the bow of V1 impacted the port side of V2. Operator 2 stated no one was injured during this incident.  
	
	All parties were advised how to obtain a copy of this report. Body camera video and audio is available for this call.


BARDID: GA-2023-0048
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-01-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:22:00
State: GA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Allatoona Lake
NearestCityTown: CARTERSVILLE
County: BARTOW
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (unknown origin)
RedactedNarrative:
On Wednesday, January 25, 2023, at approximately 15:24 hours, Game Warden (GW) received a call from the Georgia State Patrol (GSP) Radio Room with information about a vessel fire at Holiday Harbor Marina & Resort, located at 5989 Groovers Landing, Acworth Georgia 30102-2927. Sergeant responded to the location of the fire.

GSP dispatch information (GSPA23CAD006699) indicates that the fire was out before contacting GW Warren. The request for the Georgia Department of Natural Resources – Law Enforcement Division (GADNRLED) was for report completion. Sergeant arrived at the location at approximately 15:49 hours, gathered vessel and witness information, and left the scene at approximately 17:30 hours.

The following account of the events and information about the vessels has been gathered and documented by GW, a POST certified peace officer with the GADNRLED.

Vessels Involved:
1.	Sea Ray bearing Georgia registration.
       a.	Total loss.
2.	Destination Yachts bearing Georgia registration.
       a.	Damage in excess of $2,000.00. Final (official) estimate of damage to be determined.
3.	Sweetwater bearing Georgia registration.
       a.	Damage in excess of $2,000.00. Final (official) estimate of damage to be determined.
4.	Tracker bearing Georgia registration.
       a.	Damage in excess of $2,000.00. Final (official) estimate of damage to be determined.
5.	Javelin bearing Georgia registration.
       a.	Damage in excess of $2,000.00. Final (official) estimate of damage to be determined.

Events as described through witness statements:

Witness Statement One

Witness1, a member of the maintenance staff at Holiday Harbor Marina & Resort, was working on RV site with three other staff members. Two of these members were present at the location, the third was off site. At approximately 14:34 hours Witness1’s coworker, stated that “looks like a boat fire”. Witness1 and the other coworker, turned and looked toward the docks. From their location at RV site, they could see the Courtesy, Rental, A, B, C, and G docks. Smoke was visible from the area around B dock. Witness1 asked if he should go check it out and was told yes. Witness1 drove his personal vehicle toward B dock and once he was within a good visible distance, he could see flames coming from the back of a vessel on dock.

Witness1 parked his vehicle and used his radio to notify other team members that there was an active fire, that he was heading to the fire, and that he needed assistance. After a short delay (about 15 seconds), due to not being able to locate the correct dock gate code, he entered the gate and ran down the dock. During his entry into the dock, he verbally notified anyone who might have been on any boats that there was an ongoing fire, and they must evacuate. To his knowledge, there were no individuals on any vessel at the dock. While Witness1 approached vessel one (Sea Ray) that was on fire, an owner of Holiday Harbor Marina & Resort was running toward him telling him to grab fire extinguishers and to try to put the fire out. 

Witness1 grabbed a fire extinguisher (dry chemical) and began to fight the fire. The fire was located on the starboard/stern of the vessel and included the first deck, and the flames quickly spread along the rear of the vessel. Owner was also using fire extinguishers at this time when he stated, “the cabin is involved, cut the boat loose, get it out before it catches the dock or other boats”. Witness1, using his utility knife cut the starboard/stern line and then cut the starboard/bow line. He cut the lines because the wind conditions had pulled the


BARDID: GA-2023-0049
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-03-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:30:00
State: GA
NameOfBodyOfWater: B.T Brown reservoir
NearestCityTown: NEWNAN
County: COWETA
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
RedactedNarrative:
On 03/17/2023 at approximately 1330 hours, I, Game Warden with the Georgia Department of Natural Resources and GWFC, was notified of a possible drowning at B.T Brown reservoir. An off-duty trooper noticed an empty gheenou with fishing equipment and other miscellaneous items floating near the bank. Coweta Sherriff’s office and fire were first on scene. Coweta county K9 patrolled the bank around the reservoir but could not get a track while Coweta’s fire and rescue boats patrolled the lake. Using the boat’s registration number, we could identify the victim.  Subject1 had a history of medical emergencies, but how he fell into the water is unknown. Coweta Sherriff’s office was able to ping the location of his cellphone, which was in the same general area where the gneenou was found.

	Upon arriving on scene, at approximately 1500 hours, GWFC and I launched the patrol boat and began searching using side scan sonar while Sgt. stayed at the boat ramp. Coweta fire located a hat floating approximately 100 feet from the gneenou. Game wardens utilized side scan sonar and were able to locate Subject1 in 11 feet of water at approximately 1530 hours. Coweta fire was able to recover him. The Coweta County coroner’s office took possession of the body. Subject1’s son was on scene and was notified by Coweta County.


BARDID: GA-2023-0050
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-04-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:03:00
State: GA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Coosa River
NearestCityTown: ROME
County: FLOYD
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: Y
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Hull failure
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
RedactedNarrative:
On 04/22/2023 I, Cpl., responded to a possible drowning call on the Coosa River at the Old River boat ramp at 1200 hours.  I arrived on scene around 1210 hours and discovered that two men had made it out of the river and were alive.  Both men were in the back of ambulances when I arrived being evaluated.  One individual, Victim, was unaccounted for at the time.  The owner and operator of the vessel, told me they were going up the river in his vessel, a 1980 Astroglass bass boat, when the motor stopped and it suddenly began taking on water. 

They had made it up river from the boat ramp approximately 300 yards when the incident occurred. Victim was able to get out of the river.  Operator was assisted out of the river by a passing by boater, who told me he heard someone yelling help and was able to assist Operator with getting out of the river. Both men exited the river on the north side of the river approximately 125 yards from the boat ramp.  Operator told me they had life-jackets aboard the vessel but did not have them on.  I found one life-jacket tangled in some brush near the rescue site.

 Rome Fire and Rescue quickly launched a vessel and immediately began doing shoreline sweeps and running sonar.  DNR Game Wardens launched two vessels and ran sonar and conducted shoreline sweeps looking for Victim.  GSP Aviation was called to the scene and searched the river and the forest around the river as well.  Floyd County Sheriff's Office utilized their drone to search the area.  The following Game Wardens came to the scene and assisted with the search on this date.  Floyd County Police had multiple officers on scene.  Floyd County Emergency Management Agency sent several employees to assist with the search and several civilian boats were on the river volunteering to look for the victim.  

The capsized vessel was pulled out of the river by Loyd's Wrecker Service of Rome.  The boat had floated approximately 250 yards down river past the boat ramp and had became hung up in a tree on the north side of the river.  

They pulled the boat out of the river, loaded it onto their rollback and took the boat to the house for Operator, free of charge. Cpl. began his investigation about what made the vessel sink and capsize.  He determined that the transom, or back of the boat where the motor was mounted, had rotten wood.  When the men drove the boat up the river, the back of the boat was so brittle that it was not strong enough, causing the motor and the back of the boat to break off and separate from the boat.  This is what caused the boat to fill-up with water so fast.  The wood was black from rotting and would crumble when touched.  The motor was not attached to the vessel when it was recovered from the river.

The search for Victim concluded at 2030 hours on this day.  Game Wardens will be back on scene in the morning at 0730 to continue their search.  The family was briefed on the search plans for the next day.

On 04/23/2023 at approximately 1800 hours a possible image of Victim was observed with the Sector Scan.  The image was discovered approximately 125 yards upriver from the boat ramp, approximately 80 feet from the


BARDID: GA-2023-0051
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-04-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:00:00
State: GA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Chattahoochee River
NearestCityTown: ROSWELL
County: FULTON
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: Y
HazardousWaters: Y
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Storm
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with floating object
RedactedNarrative:
At approximately 1430 hours, Corporal was notified of a boating incident that occurred on the Chattahoochee River between Azalea Park and GA-9 (Roswell Road) by Troop C Atlanta Dispatch. The single occupant and the vessel owner was traveling upstream (river-right), in a new 16ft jet boat, when he collided with a submerged tree. Impact from the crash caused the new Mercury 5hp jet motor to detach and sink to the bottom of the river. Minimal stern damage occurred, and the operator was not injured. Operator was also able to get off the river without assistance. 

The Chattahoochee, on today’s date, had just experienced nearly a half inch of rain over the past 24 hours. This caused the river to be flowing at a much higher CFS than normal. Water conditions were also murky, which are normally clear to about 6 foot in this stretch of river. Wind speeds were at gusts of 40mph, conditions were clear, and the water temperature was around 58 degrees. All of these weather conditions are believed to be contributing factors in the crash. 

The operators statement said it was the first time that this new motor even touched water. Operator believed that the motor was firmly secured to the stern of the vessel. Estimated damage is believed to be $2000. Cpl. advised Operator of private recovery services to possibly help retrieve the motor from river bottom.


BARDID: GA-2023-0052
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:30:00
State: GA
NameOfBodyOfWater: West Point Lake
NearestCityTown: LAGRANGE
County: TROUP
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
RedactedNarrative:
On July 4, 2023, CPL was notified of a boating incident on West Point Lake near Earl Cook boat landing. LT, CPL, Game Wardens responded to the incident. Once on scene I, Game Warden, gathered all required information from all parties on the vessel. After speaking with the operator/ owner he stated that he was towing two occupants on the same tube when the tube hit a wake causing the two occupants to collide. One occupant was transported to West Georgia Medical Center in Lagrange, Georgia with a head and neck injury with mild concussion systems. The other occupant only received a chipped tooth and did not receive medical treatment.


BARDID: GA-2023-0053
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:40:00
State: GA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Allatoona Lake
NearestCityTown: EMERSON
County: BARTOW
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Weather
AccidentEvent1: Person departed vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
RedactedNarrative:
On July 1, 2023, I, Game Warden, along with Sergeant, responded to Glade Marina in Bartow County in reference to a boating incident.  

	Upon our arrival, a subject was already in the back of a Metro Atlanta Ambulance.  According to the paramedic, he fell off the back of the boat when the wind gust started blowing and his friend that was driving the boat took off as he fell from the back, causing his foot to be cut by the propeller.  

This incident happened around 5:40 pm at Glade Marina inside the marina.  I gathered as much information as I could from Victim and got the information of the driver of the vessel.  Victim was slowly in and out of consciousness, but after speaking with him it was apparent that we needed more information.    	
  
	As I was gathering this information, Sgt went down to look at the red pontoon boat that was involved with this incident.  No occupants, including the driver of the vessel, were to be found on scene.  Victim was being transported to Kennestone Hospital in Marietta, Georgia.  Before leaving the scene, it was determined that the driver of the vessel was driving a silver Ford Raptor. 

	Sgt and I started to leave the scene when we spotted a Ford Raptor fitting the description of the vessel operator.  We pulled over and I identified myself and asked if he was Operator.  He confirmed that it was him and I asked him to tell us what happened.  Operator stated the storm front was coming and they were in the cove.  Victim said he had to urinate and was holding on to the back of the boat while the boat was in neutral.  The wind started to pick up and the vessel was getting closer to the dock.  Operator said he told Victim to get back in the boat, so he could put it under power to prevent them from hitting the dock.  Victim was hanging on the ladder when he told Operator he was good to put the boat under power; however, his foot was still in the water, resulting in his injury.  

	I gathered all the information from Operator as well as the other 2 occupants who drove up while Operator was being interviewed.  After determining what happened, Sgt informed Operator that in the future he needed to make sure everyone was in the boat before putting it under power.  No further action was necessary and all units went back into service.  


----------------------------------------------END REPORT--------------------------------------------


BARDID: GA-2023-0054
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-05-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:56:00
State: GA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Allatoona Lake
NearestCityTown: CARTERSVILLE
County: BARTOW
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On Saturday, May 27, 2023, I responded to a call about a PWC incident that occurred near Red Top Mountain State Park.  I had received a call earlier about the same two vessels driving dangerously and nearly striking children on a tube.  I responded on scene as Bartow County FD was treating the victim.  

According to the operators of both vessels, Vessel 2 was traveling towards Bethany Bridge boat ramp going left and right attempting to traverse waves, Vessel 1 was traveling behind Vessel 2 and off to the port side.

  The operator of vessel 1 became distracted by a wave and struck the port side of Vessel 2 making impact with the victims left leg.  He suffered a compound fracture to the left femur.


BARDID: GA-2023-0055
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-06-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:33:00
State: GA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Lanier
NearestCityTown: DAWSONVILLE
County: DAWSON
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause3: Force of wake/wave
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On 06/18/2023 at approximately 1833 hours, I, Game Warden ough and Sgt. responded to a boating accident that occurred near War Hill Park on Lake Lanier. Upon arrival, I spoke with Operator1 who was involved in the accident. Operator1 stated he and his brother Operator2 were operating the jet skis on the water. Operator2 was positioned slightly in front of Operator1 to his port side. Operator1 stated Operator2's jet ski turned right which caused him to collide with Operator2's jet ski. Upon impact Operator1' jet ski hit the juvenile female who was an occupant on the jet ski with Operator2. 

Operator2 stated a wake caused his vessel to turn to the right and by the time the vessel got turned they were hit immediately after. Operator2 and the juvenile female were both thrown from the jet ski. Operator2 was able to get the juvenile female back to shore and contacted 911. The juvenile did sustain injuries upon impact. The juvenile was air lifted to Egelston Hospital in Atlanta, Georgia. The female sustained a broken tibula and a laceration to her right leg. 

During the investigation, it was determined that Operator1 was at fault due to violation rules of the road O.C.G.A 52-7-18. This is in accordance with the United States Coast Guard navigation rules, Rule 13-Overtaking; a-d.


BARDID: GA-2023-0056
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-06-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:53:00
State: GA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Blue Ridge Lake
NearestCityTown: MORGANTON
County: FANNIN
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: Y
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Skier mishap
RedactedNarrative:
On Saturday, June 24, 2023, at approximately 1553 hours, I Game Warden First Class (GWFC) responded to a boating incident on Lake Blue Ridge at Lake Wood boat ramp. Upon arrival, Fannin County Fire and EMS had already transported injured child to Fannin County Regional Hospital where she was checked out and transported to Children's Healthcare of Atlanta. 

Sgt. and I interviewed the operator of the boat and operator of the personal watercraft (PWC). Operator2 said that he was operating the open motor boat (GA Registration), while pulling a tube occupied by three people. 

Operator1 said he was operating the PWC while following behind the boat and tube. Operator2 said he was pulling the tube with the kids on it, and he noticed another boat pulling a skier coming in front of him. Operator2 said he quickly brought the boat down in speed. 

At that time, Operator1 was operating the jet ski, and he was late noticing that Operator2 had stopped the boat, and he ended up running into the tube striking Tuber1. Tuber1 remained on the tube after being struck, and was unconscious for a second. 

Tuber1 was immediately taken back to the boat ramp to be transported by EMS. I conducted HGN on Operator1 due to him stating he had one beer several hours before the incident. No HGN clues were observed. On 6/25/2023, I GWFC, contacted Operator2 to check on the health status on Tuber1. 

Operator2 said she had suffered a minor skull fracture and a concussion, and she was released from the hospital.


BARDID: GA-2023-0057
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:00:00
State: GA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Lanier
NearestCityTown: GAINESVILLE
County: HALL
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
RedactedNarrative:
On July 13th, 2023, I GWFC was notified about a boating incident on Lake Lanier in the Chattahoochee River near Don Carter State Park in Hall County. I made my way to the incident. I met the owner of the house who told me that a 14-year-old girl had broken her leg when she had been thrown from a tube being pulled by a jet-ski. The EMT's and Fire Service had just cleared the scene and everyone who was involved in the incident had left to go to the hospital with the victim.

	I arrived at the hospital a short time later and interviewed the operator of the PWC and a friend of the victim who had been riding in the tube as-well. The operator stated that she was driving the PWC when she turned the vessel and the tube she was pulling went over the wake and the tube rolled over. 

When she looked back, she saw that the girls were not in the tube. She went to pick up the girls from the water and one of the girls was saying her leg was broken. Operator picked the girls up and drove them to the dock they had come from. The homeowner came down and called 911 for help. I interviewed the other girl on the tube, and she also confirmed the story. I asked Operator why she didn't have an observer onboard her PWC and she stated she didn't know she needed one. 

	In conclusion, tuber broke her left femur bone when the tube she was in rolled over and the force of the rolling along with the inertia of her body caused her femur to break when her leg was stuck in the tube. Operator was cited for towing a skier without an observer a violation of OCGA: 52-7-8.2. 

END OF REPORT


BARDID: GA-2023-0058
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-06-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:20:00
State: GA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Lanier
NearestCityTown: CUMMING
County: FORSYTH
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On 06/02/2023 at approximately 1725 hours, DNR Game Wardens (GW) responded to a boating incident at Habersham Marina on Lake Lanier.  

Upon arrival, I met with subject who advised he had transported the victim from the accident scene to the marina.  Subject further advised that he had witnessed the incident and saw the victim on a personal watercraft (PWC), jump a wave behind a boat and land very hard in the water.  

Subject advised he went over to the victim and noticed a large cut on his forehead which was bleeding and that he put the victim on his boat and transported him to the Marina.  Subject also stated that there were two other people riding PWCs with the victim and that one of them had towed the victim’s PWC from the scene.  Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office Deputies were also on scene and advised that the victim was in an ambulance which was preparing to take him to the North Fulton Trauma Center for treatment.

I and the other GWs located the ambulance on scene where I and GW Corporal interviewed the victim inside the ambulance.  Operator stated that he and his two friends were riding their jet skis and jumping waves when an unexpected wave hit his jet ski which caused his feet to slip off and his head slam into the handle bar.   Operator further advised that he had been riding jet skis since he was fifteen years old, had completed a boater’s safety education course, was wearing a life vest at the time of the incident and was not under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Operator was transported by ambulance to the North Fulton Trauma Center without further incident.

On 06/03/2023, I spoke with the victim’s wife who advised that Operator had received 40 stitches, both internal and external, in his forehead.  She further advised that Operator was back home and that he was having some memory issues but seemed to be getting better.


BARDID: GA-2023-0059
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
State: GA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Lanier
NearestCityTown: GAINESVILLE
County: HALL
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
RedactedNarrative:
On 07/12/2023, at approximately 10:30 AM, Game Warden (GW) Corporal (CPL) was notified by the Northeast Georgia Hospital Emergency Room (ER) that an individual was being treated for an injury resulting from a boating incident. 
 
GW and GW responded but were notified enroute that the individual had been released from the ER.  GW proceeded to the victim’s residence and spoke with his mother and brother.
  
The brother advised that the incident had occurred on 07/09/2023 at approximately 5:00 PM on Lake Lanier and that he was with the victim at the time of the incident.  Subject1 further advised that the two were on a float being pulled by a third individual on a PWC when their float hit a wave and the victim was thrown off the float and had landed wrong in the water and injured his ribs.  The brother identified operator as the operator of the PWC.
  
He was contacted and agreed to meet with GWs.  He confirmed the details of the incident.

Victim also stated that the doctor at the ER had advised that he did not have any broken bones and had bruised the left side of his ribcage.


BARDID: GA-2023-0060
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:50:00
State: GA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Seminole
NearestCityTown: BAINBRIDGE
County: DECATUR
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: Y
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
At approximately 1700 hours. Cpl. and I responded to a boating incident on Lake Seminole about ¼ mile north of Flint River Heights boat landing. It was determined that a female passenger aboard the 19 ft Stingray lost her balance and fell due to a wake from another vessel while they were docked. 

The passengers were in the process of loading up and the vessel was not moving. She fell while trying to take her seat at the front of the vessel. When she fell, she landed on her back and coccyx causing a compression fracture to her L1 lumbar vertebrae. 

The operator and the other two passengers attempted to stabilize her in the bottom of the vessel and traveled south to Flint River Heights boat landing. This is where EMS, Cpl. and I met them. We assisted EMS with loading her into the ambulance and she was transported to Bainbridge Memorial Hospital. Cpl. and I arrived at the ER at 7:14 p.m. and had her sign a medical release form. I returned to Bainbridge Memorial Hospital on August 4, 2023, to pick up her medical records from the incident.

	The operator and two other passengers were uninjured. The vessel was also undamaged.


BARDID: GA-2023-0062
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:14:00
State: GA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Tidal Cree (VI)
County: BRYAN
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: Y
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: People on gunwale, bow, or transom
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On July 25, 2023, I, Game Warden (GW) received information of a possible boating accident from Bryan County. The incident occurred on July 16 and was reported to Bryan County but LE was called off and only EMS arrived on scene. I got the EMS and dispatch report where I found the operators name and number. I got as much information as I could over the phone. The operator had run over his daughter after she was ejected from the vessel's bow. 

On August 5, 2023, GW went with me to the house of operator so he could fill out a witness statement and so we could see the vessel. Typed up operator's witness form follows.

-------------------------------------WITNESS STATEMENT------------------------------------------------- 

On July 16, 2023 me, my wife, son, and daughter came back to the Waterford Landing dock to drop off my son to go to work. My wife stayed with my son and my daughter and I stayed on boat to go back to sandbar. I left dock and stayed on left side of Jerrico river, close to the bank where the channel is, it was dead low tide. I got about 250-300 yards from dock and hit the edge of mud bar on left. Daughter was sitting in middle of bow and when boat hit mud bar the bow went up and tossed her up and to the right. She came down beside boat and the boat ran over her. I turned boat around in about 50 yards and came back and saw her in the water. I jumped in and picked her up and brought her back to dock. I called 911 and told them we were at Waterford Landing dock and they sent ambulance. She had cuts on her arms and thigh. EMS took her to Memorial hospital. It was a bay boat. 

----------------------------END WITNESS STATEMENT--------------------------------------------------

On August 11, 2023, I, GW typed up witness's statement.


BARDID: GA-2023-0063
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-05 00:00:00
State: GA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Tidal Cree (VI)
NearestCityTown: MIDWAY
County: LIBERTY
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: Y
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Ignition of spilled fuel or vapor
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
RedactedNarrative:
On 7/5/2023 I Game Warden with the Georgia Department of Natural Resources Law Enforcement Division (GA DNR LE) received a call from GSP about a vessel on fire in Liberty County on the Jerico river. I called the owner to get more information. Owner said the day before it rained, and his boat had water in the bottom of the hull. 

The next day Owner and his wife went out to his boat that was tied at his personal dock to change the bilge pump. While changing the bilge pump a spark was created causing the boat to catch fire. He said he believed there was gas inside the bilge.  He could not get to the fire extinguisher in the vessel. 

He went inside his home to get a fire extinguisher but by the time he came back the fire was too big. Owner pushed the boat away from the dock into the marsh as the boat continued to burn. Both individuals refused EMS treatment and drove to St. Joseph’s hospital for treatment. Owner sustained burns to both legs and Wife sustained abrasions on her lower right leg. His neighbors towed the boat back to his dock on 7/6/2023. 

I called Owner on 07/7/2023 to get more information but he was doing physical therapy and couldn’t provide any information. On 7/25/2023 I called to get more information, but he said he was in too much pain to talk. On 8/3/2023 I called Owner to get more information but he said the paperwork was upstairs and he couldn’t get to it due to pain. He told me that I could come to his house to get whatever information I needed. On 8/6/2023 I called him to set up a time to come to his house. He didn’t answer so I left a voicemail asking to come over on 8/11/2023 at 9am. He responded by text message saying it was okay for me to come at that date and time.

 On 8/11/2023 Myself and Game Warden First Class went to Owner house. I briefly spoke to wife until Owner came out of the house. He handed me some paperwork and said if I needed anything else to call his lawyer then went back inside. He did not provide an estimated damage or insurance number on the vessel.


BARDID: GA-2023-0064
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:41:00
State: GA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Hartwell
NearestCityTown: HARTWELL
County: HART
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent3: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On July 25, 2023, I, GWFC, along with GWFC, received a complaint of a boating incident at approximately 09:45 AM from the Hart County Sheriff’s Office dispatch.  The Hart County dispatch stated that there were no injuries and gave me a location.  The incident occurred on Lake Hartwell around the Long Point area.  They also gave me a number to call.  I called the number that I was given and spoke with a subject who gave me some more information about the incident.  Given the location, phone service was not great, and we were a good distance from the scene.  I gathered what information I could, and we responded to the scene. 

We arrived at Powderbag Ramp on Lake Hartwell at approximately 10:27 AM.  This was the location that I was given from the subject I called.  I called the subject back and learned that he was a friend of the subject involved in the boating incident.  Having better phone service, it was determined that the boats and the individuals involved were at Long Point Ramp.  We headed in that direction.  

We arrived at the ramp, and I made sure that both boats and their operators were present.  We spoke with the operator of Boat 1.  Operator1 stated that he was fishing in a tournament qualification and was headed to another spot.  He stated that he was cruising about 45-50 mph.  He stated that he was looking to his left because he thought he saw other boats that he knew, turned his head straight and Boat 2 was right in front of him.  

He stated that he turned his boat hard left to avoid the collision.  He stated that he never saw Boat 2 until the last moment and that if he wouldn’t have turned then he would have killed the other person.  He stated that the impact ejected him from his boat.  

I asked if he was wearing a life jacket and he stated that he was.  He showed it to me, and it was inflated.  I made sure that he did not need any medical assistance and he stated that did not.  I got what personal and boat information needed from him.  I also got pictures of his boat and his track from his onboard GPS unit.  

We then spoke to the operator of Boat 2.  Operator2 stated that he was headed to another location to fish and come off plane, indicating that he was traveling 10-15 mph.  He stated that he looked and noticed a boat coming his way but lost sight of it in his peripheral.  He stated that thought he was out of the other boats path.  He stated that he felt water splash him and then was hit.  He said the impact drove him into the steering wheel of his boat.  

Operator2 was sure that he was not paying attention.  Operator2 even stated that if Operator1 had not turned his boat hard to the left, that he would have killed him.  I asked Operator2 if he was wearing a life jacket and he said he was not.  

I got what personal and boat information that I needed from him.  He asked if he could remove his boat from the water and I told him that it was good to do so.  After he pulled his boat out, I got more pictures of the damage to the boat and also got a picture of his GPS tracks.  

On July 26, 2023, I spoke with both individuals.  Both indicated that they had went to the emergency room for the injuries sustained the previous day.  Operator1 sent me his documents supporting that he was treated, and I made arrangements to meet Operator2 the following day to retrieve his.  

On July 27, 2023, I, along with GWFC met with Operator2 in reference to discuss what was determined in the investigation of the boating incident.  I got the medical information about him going to the emergency room.  We talked about the investigation.  I issued Operator2 a citation for Violating Rules of the Road.  He was not accepting of the citation and we explained it the best we could to him.  Operator2 asked me if it was his fault and I stated that it was.  He could…


BARDID: GA-2023-0065
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-04-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:00:00
State: GA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Chatuge
NearestCityTown: HIAWASSEE
County: TOWNS
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On 4/21/2023 I Game Warden First(GWFC) Class with the Georgia Department of Natural Resources Law Enforcement Division(DNRLED) was notified of a boating incident at Lake Chatuge Marina on Lake Chatuge.  Once I arrived on scene at approximately 14:00 hours I was met by an employee of Lake Chatuge Marina. The employee was a witness to the incident and begin to fill me in on what had happened. 

Subject stated that a customer who rented a boat from the marina was backing out of the boat slip, and when he went forward hit serval boats causing damage to the motor covers.  Subject tried helping Operator1 get away from the boat dock, but Operator1 kept going forward and backwards striking the same boats.  Once Operator1 was clear of boats and the dock he left the marina on the rental boat.  Operator1's rental agreement was up at 16:00 hours so while I waited for him to return I took pictures of the damage, and watched the camera recording of the incident. When Operator1 returned to the marina I asked him to explain what had happened. Operator1 stated that he thought he had backed far enough to clear the dock and boats, and when he started going forward the wind kept blowing the boat into the dock and other boats. Estimated cost of the damage to all boats was $5,771.43. Attached in the report is Subject witness statement, pictures of the damage, and costs of damage to all boats. No further action was taken.


BARDID: GA-2023-0066
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:00:00
State: GA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Lanier
NearestCityTown: FLOWERY BRANCH
County: HALL
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: Y
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Poor
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On July 20, 2023, at approximately 18:50, Game Warden (GW) and I (Game Warden Corporal) were notified of a boating accident that had occurred on Lake Lanier.  We were informed that a vessel had capsized, and two occupants were onboard.  Both occupants had been rescued by Hall County Fire, one of which was injured and was being transported to Northeast Georgia Medical Center in Braselton.  We responded to Aqualand Marina and were going to respond to the vessel’s location.  However, while entering Aqualand Marina there was significant damage and debris that closed the road from a storm that had recently passed through.  We did not make it to the vessel’s location.

GW1 was able to speak with a passenger on the vessel.  She stated that the vessel had capsized, and they were thrown in the water.  Subject1 informed us that the operator had received a laceration to his leg and had pain in one ankle.  I asked Subject1, what had caused the vessel to capsize?  Subject1 said that wind and waves from the thunderstorm had overturned the vessel.  GW1 then told Subject1 that she needed to contact Tow Boat and have the vessel secured.  Our knowledge of the vessel at this point was that it was not secured and could float away during the night possibly causing an accident.  

The following day, I spoke with the owner of the vessel.  Owner informed me that they had gotten the vessel out of the water.  I asked him some general questions about the vessel for my report and he sent me the insurance information through a text.  I asked what was the damage estimate for the vessel?  Owner replied that it was a total loss.

I then asked Operator to explain what had happened.  Operator said that on the day of the incident July 20th, he and Subject1 were on the vessel (2013 Avalon and Tahoe pontoon boat Ga Registration) anchored in a cove near Paradise Point.  

At approximately 17:45, Operator said he noticed the sky beginning to get dark and decided to pull the anchor and go back to the marina at Safe Harbor.  However, the anchor was hung up and Operator said he cut the anchor rope.  Once underway he came out of the cove and headed east in Flowery Branch Creek towards Safe Harbor Marina.  Operator said the waves were white capping and the wind was blowing hard.  The vessel then capsized because of the winds and waves caused by the thunderstorm.  

This occurred west of McEver Bridge in Flowery Branch Creek.  Operator told me, him and Subject1 were not wearing PFDs at the time.  After the vessel capsized, they both were able to get ahold of the vessel and stayed with the vessel till it was pushed ashore by the waves.  Once the vessel made it to shore, Operator said his leg received contact between rocks and the vessel.  

Once both were safely out of the water, Subject1 mentioned to Operator that his leg was bleeding.  Operator said the vessel was then just rocked back and forth by the waves on the rocks causing extensive damage.  Shortly after Hall County Fire arrived and Operator was taken to Northeast Georgia Medical Center in Braselton.  Operator said once at the hospital, he was checked out and received five stitches to the laceration on the inside of his leg and 11 stitches to the outside laceration.  He was then released.  Subject1 was not harmed, only shook up during the incident.


BARDID: GA-2023-0067
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2023-09-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:14:00
State: GA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Blackshear
NearestCityTown: VIENNA
County: DOOLY
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: Y
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Electrical
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (non-fuel)
RedactedNarrative:
At approximately 1614 hours, we were flagged down by a passing vessel and advised of a boating incident in Dooly County.  The occupants of the vessel said a blue Sea-doo personal watercraft was on fire just south of the Georgia Highway 27 Bridge.  We responded to the area and made contact with the operator of the PWC who was uninjured.  

Upon arrival Operator was on another PWC with a friend.  The Dooly County Fire Department was on scene and had extinguished the fire on Operator’ PWC.  I asked Operator what happened, and she said she was traveling upriver when she jumped a wake and went airborne.  Operator said when she landed, the PWC shut off and would not start again.  

Operator said she tried to crank the PWC and it began smoking heavily and the front compartment caught on fire.  GW and CPL. photographed the damage on the PWC.  There was heavy fire damage in the engine compartment and the front storage compartment.  There was fire damage in the port side footwell and more fire damage along the port side gunwale, near the bow.  Operator’ mother arrived on scene and loaded the PWC on a trailer.  We were unable to determine what caused the PWC to catch on fire.  Technician said the PWC would be totaled, valued at approximately 17,000 dollars.


BARDID: GA-2023-0068
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:02:00
State: GA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Oliver
NearestCityTown: COLUMBUS
County: MUSCOGEE
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Improper loading
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
RedactedNarrative:
I was informed by CPD that Operator was the owner and operator of the vessel and Victim was the victim suffering from a severe laceration to his left foot. When I arrived on scene, I learned Victim’s mother was at the hospital with her son. 

According to statements made by Operator, while his vessel was underway, a tube on board their boat, attached by a line, flew out of the boat causing the line to catch on Victim’s leg, removing him from the boat. 

After entering the water, Victim re-entered the boat and 911 was called and treatment was started. Operator stated he believed he was traveling approximately 15-20 miles per hour (half-throttle, approx. 3000 RPMs). Game Warden and I began inspecting the boat for damage. I observed no hull or propeller damage. Blood stains were located on the port aft near a seat where Operator stated Victim was sitting. I did not see a tube onboard, however Operator later informed me that the tube and a life jacket were left on the water. 

I asked Operator how much experience he personally had operating a boat. He informed me has approximately 1,200 hours of operation time. I asked Operator if he was familiar with Lake Oliver, and he informed me he was very familiar with the lake. I asked him to point out on a map where he believed the incident occurred. Operator identified a spot on the lake consistent with other statements about their location (approximately 32.52018 degrees N, 85.00252 degrees W). I asked Operator if he would be willing to take a Preliminary Breath Test (PBT) to rule out alcohol use as a factor, which he consented to. Operator breath indicated a negative result for alcohol. 

 asked Operator approximately what time they arrived at the lake that day, he answered approximately 3:30 PM. I asked Operator approximately what time the incident occurred, which he informed me between 4:00 PM – 4:30 PM. I gave Operator a witness statement which was filled out. 

I drove to Piedmont Midtown where Victim was being treated. Victim was being treated at the trauma center for partial amputation of his left foot and friction burns to his interior right thigh. Victim underwent surgery on the evening on 07/29, which resulted in partial amputation of his left foot. 


BARDID: GA-2023-0069
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-05-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:39:00
State: GA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Jackson
NearestCityTown: MONTICELLO
County: JASPER
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
AccidentCause3: Sharp turn
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
CoordinatesConfidence: C
RedactedNarrative:
On Sunday, May 14th, 2023, around 11:27 PM, I, Corporal (Cpl) of the Georgia Department of Natural Resource Law Enforcement Division (GA DNR LED) Critical Incident Reconstruction Team (CIRT), received a call from Sergeant (Sgt), CIRT Supervisor. Sgt. informed me of a boating incident at Jackson Lake that resulted in at least one person missing and presumed to have drowned. Sgt.s were on scene and screening the vessel operator for boating under the influence. 

I contacted Sgt. 2 and let him know I would be there around 7:00 AM. I asked that they turn off everything on the vessel and keep it turned off to preserve evidence. Sgt2 later contacted me and asked if they could turn the GPS back on to check the coordinates of where the incident occurred to know where to start looking for the missing subject. I advised him exigent circumstances existed and it was okay to turn on the GPS briefly to find out the location to search for Victim and then turn it back off. I asked Sgt2 to seize Operator’s cell phone and place it in airplane mode. It was discovered that Operator was a Sergeant with the Butts County Sheriff's Office (BCSO).

GW was notified around 9:57 PM about a possible boat incident and a boat spinning out of control at Jackson Lake. It was unknown if there was an operator onboard or not, but someone could be heard yelling for help. Jasper County and Butts County Deputies were enroute to the scene.

Both of the JCSO deputies’ body worn cameras captured the unoccupied Tidewater vessel traveling in circles at a high rate of speed. 


BARDID: GA-2023-0071
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-08-26 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 03:15:00
State: GA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Tidal Cree (VI)
NearestCityTown: SUNBURY
County: LIBERTY
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: Y
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: Improper anchoring
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent3: Capsizing
RedactedNarrative:
On August 26, 2023, I, Game Warden (GW) received a call at approximately 0315 hours regarding a capsized vessel in the mouth of McQueens Inlet with two occupants in the water. Corporal (Cpl) and myself responded by vessel out of Demeries Creek. We located the two individuals on St. Catherine's Island and got them into our vessel. 

Neither of them required aid and were both transported back to their vehicles at Sunbury boat ramp. Operator stated that he and Occupant had gone flounder gigging on the beach. They had gotten back into the boat and were leaving. They were heading towards deeper water and the wind blew the vessel into a sandbar. 

Once on the sandbar Operator threw out the anchor and tried to face the bow into the waves but couldn't get it to turn. Waves swamped the stern of the vessel and they couldn't get the water out faster than it was coming in. The hull filled up and was listing to the side. The vessel then capsized. Operator and Occupant stayed with the boat for 30-40 minutes before leaving it. They both made their way to the island and were later picked up by the Georgia Department of Natural Resources. The closest buoy is the green C 9 in the mouth of St. Catherine's Sound. The vessel was not insured.


BARDID: GA-2023-0072
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-09-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 08:00:00
State: GA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Tidal Cree (VI)
NearestCityTown: RICEBORO
County: LIBERTY
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: Y
HazardousWaters: Y
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentCause3: Hazardous waters
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent3: Person departed vessel
RedactedNarrative:
I, Game Warden with the Georgia Department of Natural Resources Law Enforcement Division (GADNRLE) responded with Game Wardens to a vessel in distress at approximately 0830 hours on September 3rd, 2023. Upon arrival we were notified by United States Coast Guard (USCG) that the boat was located at McQueen’s Inlet and three individuals abandoned ship and swam to the beach to wait for rescue. When we arrived on scene, we saw three individuals on the beach with one USCG rescue swimmer. We pulled our boat up to the beach to get the individuals into our boat. Once in the boat we drove them back to Waterways Marina. At Waterways Marina each induvial wrote a witness statement.  The statements will be typed below. Sea Tow recovered the boat the same day and the adjuster said the boat was a total loss.
  
“Left Waterways Marina at 6:30am heading to McQueen’s. Bumped bottom in the inlet and took waves from the back. Boat took on too much water, so we walked to the sandbar and waited for help. Arrived back at Waterway by DNR around 10:20 am.”
 
“Approximately departed Waterways Marina at 6:30 am heading to McQueen to fish. Upon arrival track was bad. Hit bottom and started taking on water over back and sides. Sent SOS then departed boat and waited for Coast Guard.”

“Departed Waterways Marina at 6:45am heading to get bait shrimp at Kilkenny Marina and then to McQueen Inlet. Upon approach of McQueen Inlet, we ran aground.  After attempting to back off the bar the motor stalled causing us to be lodged aground. Boat began taking on water from waved over the side and back. The crew put on life jackets and abandoned ship before the boat capsized. We waded to a sandbar north of inlet where we were rescued by USCG/GADNR.”


BARDID: GA-2023-0075
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-06-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:50:00
State: GA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Other
NearestCityTown: MIDWAY
County: LIBERTY
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: Y
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Drug
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
RedactedNarrative:
On June 28, 2023, at approximately 2000 hours I, Game Warden (GW) Corporal of the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR) received a call from Georgia State Patrol (GSP) dispatch regarding a boating incident in Liberty County. I called Liberty County dispatch for additional information. I called DNR Seargent (Sgt) and informed her of the incident.  I called GW and instructed him to go to the boat (1998 Seadoo Bombardier) involved in the incident was tied up to a dock. I arrived at approximately 2050 hours. 

I was advised the operator, Operator, hit his head on the Isle of Wight bridge on Jones Creek and was deceased. There were two juvenile occupants who were uninjured. 

Subject1 stated that Operator regularly smoked marijuana. Subject2 stated that just prior to striking the bridge his father stopped to smoke a cigar. Subject1 stated that the vessel was not insured. 

The toxicology report stated that Operator’s Blood was indicative for marijuana. A copy of the toxicology report will be included in this report. 


BARDID: GA-2023-0076
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:20:00
State: GA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Sinclair
NearestCityTown: EATONTON
County: PUTNAM
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On July 15th, 2023, at approximately 1420 hours, Game Warden and Corporal received a call about a boating incident on Lake Sinclair at Crooked Creek Marina. Cpl. and I arrived at Crooked Creek Marina at 1445 hours. Upon arrival, we noticed both boats docked at the marina. No injuries were reported at this time. Cpl. and I began discussion with the parties involved.
	We talked with the owner of vessel 1. Operator1’s stated that they docked their boat at the marina while they went to eat lunch. While eating their lunch the manager of the marina notified him that his boat was struck hard by another boat that was trying to dock at the marina. No one was aboard Operator1’s vessel when it was struck. 
	Cpl. and I then talked to Operator2 the operator of vessel 2. Operator2 stated that he was coming to eat at Crooked Creek Marina. While he was maneuvering the boat in the boat slip, his dog jumped on him pushing the throttle, forcing his vessel  to collide with Operator1’s boat. Operator2 let us know that the boat was a rental from Sinclair Wild. Vessel 2 had Operator2, his friend, and his dog aboard.
	We had Operator1, Operator2, and the marina manager complete witness statements. We then gathered pictures of both vessels and their damage.  Vessel 1 had damage on the starboard side close to the bow of the boat on the gunwale. Vessel 2 had some damage at the bow of the boat near the metal eye. Cpl. and I determined that the lack of experience of Operator2's boating caused the vessel collision. Cpl. and I also went to Sinclair Wild where Operator2 rented vessel 2. Sinclair Wild presented us with the rental agreement that Operator2 signed.
	 Witness statements, images of both boats, and the rental agreement are included in this report.


BARDID: GA-2023-0077
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:30:00
State: GA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Hartwell
NearestCityTown: TOCCOA
County: STEPHENS
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: Y
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On 07/30/2023, at approximately 0930 hours, I, Game Warden, with the Georgia Department of Natural Resources Law Enforcement Division (DNR LED), received a report of a boating incident that took place on Lake Hartwell in Stephens County. The incident took place on 07/29/2023, at approximately 1130 hours. 

I contacted the owner who advised that he was cruising North on Lake Hartwell from the Bruce Creek Boat Ramp headed towards the broken bridges. Operator advised that they were traveling at approximately 15- 20 mph when the incident occurred. victim stated that as they were traveling, he struck a sand bar that was just under the water causing the passenger to be thrown into the floor of the vessel. Victim struck her face on an object within boat causing lacerations to the face and a head injury. At that time, Operator received help from a bystander that took them back to the dock. The vessel had to be towed by TOW BOAT USA. 

	After getting Victim back to the dock, she was taken to Stephens County Hospital Emergency Room, where she received treatment. It was determined that Victim was treated for minor lacerations, concussion, and a broken nose. She was released from the hospital and returned to her residence. Operator advised that they would be going to a plastic surgeon for further treatment of Victim.  The boat that was being operated by Operator received damage to the bow due to sudden impact with the sandbar. The bow had chips in the gel coat and scratches that were a result of the impact. Nothing Further to report.


BARDID: GA-2023-0078
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-09-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 23:00:00
State: GA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Lanier
NearestCityTown: FLOWERY BRANCH
County: HALL
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On September 28, 2023, Corporal and I, Game Warden went and interviewed Operator in reference to a boating incident that happened on September 2, 2023, near Van Pugh. In an interview with the subject, it was said that he was the only person on the vessel and was leaving Holiday Marina headed towards Three Sister Islands. 

The subject stated that he stopped his vessel and got turned around on the lake. When the subject came back up on plane, he thought he was headed in the direction of Three Sister Islands where he would normally drive between the Islands. However, the subject headed in the direction towards Van Pugh where he struck a sand bar while going approximately 30 miles per hour. 

The subject stated that he was standing when he was driving the vessel, and when it struck the sandbar, he hit the windshield of the vessel and cut his lower lip. The vessel came to rest out of the water approximately 50 feet on the sandbar. The subject called his son to come get him from where the boating incident happened. The son then transported victim to Northside Hospital in Cumming Ga, where he received four stitches in his lower lip. The vessel was left over night on the sandbar. The subject came back the next day and had Towboat USA retrieve the boat. 

He admitted to not reporting the boating incident as he thought he would be able to handle the situation himself. He was given a citation for failure to report a boating incident and a warning for operating a vessel to fast for conditions. There is nothing further to report.


BARDID: GA-2023-0079
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-08-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
State: GA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Burton
NearestCityTown: TIGER
County: RABUN
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: Y
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On Saturday, August 5th, 2023, at approximately 2045 hours, I, Corporal, with the Georgia Department of Natural Resources Law Enforcement Division Critical Incident Reconstruction Team, was contacted by GA DNR LED CIRT Supervisor, Sergeant in reference to a boating incident, resulting in serious injuries, on Lake Burton at approximately 1510 hours in Rabun County. 

GW1 said when he arrived on scene at approximately 1515 hours, the 2000 Sylvan open motorboat (GA Registration), powered by a 135 Evinrude outboard motor, was occupied by two male subjects: Operator and Subject1.  GW1 said when he arrived on scene, Subject1 was lying on the floor of the vessel at the bow and Subject2 was sitting on the seat on the port side of the vessel.  

GW1 said the operator of the vessel, according to witnesses, was Subject1.  Subject1 was operating the vessel in a northeast direction on Lake Burton with one adult male passenger.  Subject1 was traveling around the right side of the island at the mouth of Timpson Cove and slowed down for another vessel, which was causing a large wake.  Subject1 then accelerated the vessel while making a sharp left turn to his port side and collided with the rock seawall at the island.  The collision with the seawall threw both subjects on the floor of the vessel and caused severe injuries to both occupants.  GW1 said Rabun County Fire and EMS arrived on scene at approximately 1525 hours to assist and transport both subjects to Anchorage Marina.  The subjects were airlifted to Northeast Georgia Medical Center.

GW1 said he was able to secure information as well as secure witness statements from who saw the incident occur.  GW1 said there were multiple Sam Adams Octoberfest beer cans throughout the vessel and he could smell the strong odor of an alcoholic beverage coming from Subject1 and Subject2 as they were loaded onto the Rabun County Fire and EMS vessel.  

GW1 said he contacted Game Warden for assistance.  GW1 asked GW. to secure a search warrant for a blood draw of the suspected operator, Subject1, at Northeast Georgia Medical Center in Gainesville, Georgia.

While on scene at Tallulah Falls, GW1 escorted GWFC. and I to the scene of the incident on Lake Burton while Cpl. secured a search warrant for the 2000 Sylvan vessel.  We photographed and measured the impact area on the rock seawall.  We observed damage approximately five feet, five inches across the seawall with several markings on the rocks as well as several broken and misplaced rocks on the seawall.  Fiberglass from the Sylvan vessel was located on the island: one piece was nine feet from the edge of the rock seawall, one piece was 11 feet from the edge of the rock seawall, and one piece was 12 feet four inches from the rock seawall.

We returned to the Georgia Power Building at Tallulah Falls and met with Cpl. who secured a search warrant for the vessel.  At approximately 1300 hours, we executed the search warrant and photographed the Sylvan vessel for evidence.  I observed extensive damage to the bow of the vessel.  The floor of the vessel was separated from the hull, the gate on the bow was torn off


BARDID: GA-2023-0080
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-11-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:29:00
State: GA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Seminole
NearestCityTown: DONALSONVILLE
County: SEMINOLE
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Hull failure
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
RedactedNarrative:
On November 24th, 2023, at approximately 2:00 PM I received a call from a Seminole County Deputy stating that a possible drowning had occurred near Sealy’s Landing in Seminole County. I arrived on scene with a patrol vessel and began searching for the complainant to gain more information on what had happened. 

About 100 yards outside of the spring creek channel I observed a vessel with one occupant drifting in an area cluttered with stumps. I approached the vessel and asked the operator if he had called in the drowning and he said that he did. 

I asked Subject1 what had happened, and he stated that he and his brother had been fishing that morning and while he was operating the vessel headed back to Big Jim’s landing, he drifted outside the channel markers and struck a stump. Subject1 said that the vessel had been slowly taking on water throughout the day and his brother was crouched near the rear of the vessel working on the leak issue when the vessel hit the stump causing Victim to fall overboard. Subject1 stated that he immediately made a “U-turn” as Victim struggled to stay above water and was able to grab him but was not able to hold on and when he let go. Victim went below the surface of the water and did not resurface.
 
	Sergeant arrived on scene, and we asked Subject1 if he would board our patrol vessel and try to show us where he thought that his brother went under at. Subject1 agreed and was able to identify a stump that he thought he hit and an area where we turned around when his brother was ejected from the vessel. 

Once Subject1 was taken back to Sealy’s landing Sgt. and I began searching the area he identified using the side scan sonar on our patrol vessel. Seminole County deputies in a patrol vessel also searched using side scan sonar and Decatur County Fire and Rescue deployed a drone in the area. While units were searching for the victim, officers inspected the vessel for damage and made sure that the proper safety equipment (Life Jackets, Throwable device, and fire extinguisher) were on board. They did not observe any damage to the hull of the vessel but did state that all required safety equipment was  present. Seminole County SO and Decatur Fire and Rescue both developed boat issues and had to abandon the search. Sgt. and I remained on scene until dark with negative search results from side scan sonar.

	On November 25th, 2023, at 7:30 AM Sgt. and I resumed search efforts with side scan sonar and surface sweeps of the area the drowning occurred according to Subject1 with negative results. Decatur Fire and Rescue divers arrived on scene at approximately 9:00 AM and utilized their drone to attempt to gain a better view below the surface of the water with negative results. At approximately 12:30 PM we deployed one diver from the Decatur Fire and Rescue dive team to search a triangle shaped area between a group of stumps around the stump that Subject1 stated that he hit. At approximately 1:00 PM the diver located Victim Subject1’s body and at 1:25 PM and successful recovery was made. 

	Once the body was secure in our patrol vessel it was transported to Cummings landing and turned over to Deputy Coroner and the Evan’s Skipper Funeral Home.


BARDID: GA-2023-0081
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-06-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:25:00
State: GA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Oconee River
NearestCityTown: DUBLIN
County: LAURENS
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: Y
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person struck by vessel
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
RedactedNarrative:
Boating incident – Oconee River near the Laurens & Treutlen Co. line

	At approximately 1300 hours on June 17, 2023, I, Corporal with the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Critical Incident Reconstruction Team (CIRT), was notified of a fatal boating incident on the Oconee River near the Treutlen and Laurens County lines.  I made phone contact with Game Warden First Class (GWFC), the initial responding officer with DNR.  GWFC stated to me that Subject1, a male juvenile, 12-13 years of age, had been involved in a single vessel boating incident.  He also stated that Cpl.s were en route to assist with securing the scene and Cpl.2 was at Fairview Park Hospital with the family.

	I then contacted Cpl. for an update and he said that he had recently been with the family but had stepped away to provide them with privacy after receiving the death notification by hospital staff.  He stated that he had spoken with Subject’s father briefly upon Operator’s arrival to the hospital.  Operator was the operator of the vessel at the time of the incident.  Cpl. stated that he did not smell an odor of alcoholic beverage upon his person, nor did he observe any signs of impairment or intoxication.  His initial statement to Cpl. was they were traveling approximately 30-35 mph upriver when he struck a sandbar.  The impact threw himself and two other juvenile passengers forward in the vessel and ejected Subject.  The boat came to a stop on top of Subject, trapping him underneath the boat.

	Operator stated to Cpl. that he made phone contact with his brother who responded to the boat landing at Pete’s Dead River on the Oconee River.  Brother obtained assistance from another boater, and his wife who transported him to the scene in vessel.  Subject was loaded onto the vessel and transported back to Pete’s Dead River Boat Landing to awaiting EMS.

	I arrived near Pete’s Dead River Boat Landing at approximately 1715 hours, at which time I met with GWFC, Cpl., and Cpl..  Upon arrival, GWFC and Cpl. updated me with additional information that had been gathered.  Operator was operating the vessel at the time of the incident.  The vessel was occupied by Subject, the victim, and Operator’s 16-year-old son, and a 12-year-old nephew of Operator.  They had been checking catfish lines and were traveling to another location at the time of the incident.  Subject was seated on the front deck, son and nephew were sitting behind Subject, and Operator was behind the operator’s console.

	At approximately 1750 hours, I arrived at the scene of the incident.  Cpl. had remained on scene to secure the area.  Upon arrival, I observed a camouflage painted G3 model 1860 center console aluminum boat, powered by a Yamaha 90 HP motor, grounded on the sandbar.  The boat was a tunnel hull with a jack plate mounted on the transom.  The vessel was completely grounded out of the water and situated almost perpendicular to the river, with the stern of the boat closest to the waterline.  There was a blue Igloo cooler that was partially crushed underneath the lower unit of the outboard motor.  On the outside of the starboard side of the vessel, between the console and stern, I observed an area that appeared to have been recently excavated and extended  a short distance underneath the vessel.  Inside the vessel, I observed bush hooks, personal floatation devices (pfd’s), shoes, and various aluminum drink cans strewn about.  The ignition switch was in the off position and throttle lever was in the neutral position.  A Lowrance chart plotter was mounted on the top


BARDID: GA-2023-0082
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-09-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
State: GA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Blue Ridge Lake
NearestCityTown: BLUE RIDGE
County: FANNIN
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentCause3: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On 09/03/2023 at approximately 10:00 AM, I, Game Warden First Class (GWFC) with the Georgia Department of Natural Resources Law Enforcement Division (GA DNR LED) was notified about a boating incident that occurred on Blue Ridge Lake in Fannin County, GA. More specifically, the incident occurred on C Dock at Blue Ridge Marina. Initial reports indicated the incident occurred on 09/02/2023 at approximately 3:00 PM. 

Later on 09/02/23, GWFC and I responded to Blue Ridge to look at the boats involved in the incident. The Marina staff informed us the owner of Vessel 1 (V1) was leaving his boat slip and attempting to leave when he stated he inadvertently gave the vessel too much throttle (gas) and hit Vessel 2 (V2) as it was docked. The front portion of V1's pontoon struck the outboard motor of V2 causing extensive damage to the oil pan area. GWFC and I documented all necessary information and took photograph of the damage. 

I then spoke with the owner and operator of V1 by phone call. He stated he had already spoken with the owner of V2  and informed her about the situation. 

Nothing further at this time.


BARDID: GA-2023-0083
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-10-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:30:00
State: GA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Lanier
NearestCityTown: GAINESVILLE
County: HALL
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Sudden medical condition
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
RedactedNarrative:
On October 25, 2023, I Game Warden received a call from GSP dispatch in reference to a boating incident that happened on Lake Lanier right above Browns Bridge. I was informed that one person was transported to Northeast Georgia Medical Center in Gainesville after an incident while Victim was wake surfing. 

GSP Dispatch provided me with a phone number of one of the people on the vessel at the time of the incident. I placed a phone call to the phone number provided and spoke with two people who informed me that everyone on the vessel was at Northeast Georgia Medical Center in the Emergency waiting room. I then responded to Northeast Georgia Medical Center to interview each person on the vessel and investigate the cause of the boating incident. Once I arrived at Northeast Georgia Medical Center, I went to the reception desk in the Emergency Room where I was then led to the room where Victim was being treated. 

I was met by the vessel operator and another person on board the vessel in Victim’s room. Victim was unable to speak very much as he was had a respiration mask and was still recovering. I proceeded to interview Operator and gather all the necessary information about him and the vessel that I would need for the incident report. I then proceeded to gather a written statement from Operator. I then interviewed everyone else on the vessel and gathered written statements from each person. I then spoke with the doctors and tried to gather any information that might help gather insight to the extent of Victim’s injuries. The medical staff was unsure of the Victim’s injuries at the time of my interview. I informed Operator and Victim that I would be following up with them in a few days so I would know the extent of the injuries. 
	
After interviewing and gathering written statements from everyone, the incident happened on a 2019 Correct Craft/Natique G25 Super Air which was traveling about 11 miles per hour per Operator. Victim had just got up on the surf board behind the vessel and when he got up, he fell backwards off of the surf board. Operator circled the boat around to pick up Victim and as they were pulling up to him they noticed that we was laying limp in the water with his head back. 

It was reported that PFD was what kept him afloat. One person jumped in the water to get Victim back on the vessel. Once Victim was on the vessel, it was reported that he was not breathing and that his face was starting to change colors.  There was only one person aboard the vessel that knew CPR. She started CPR on Victim and continued to do CPR all the way back to the dock while Operator drove the vessel. 

Victim threw up blood a few times on the vessel while receiving CPR. Once Operator arrived back at the dock, Victim was moved to the dock where CPR continued. A difvulator was brought to the dock and subject administered one shock to Victim. She then continued CPR until the EMTs arrived. Once the EMTs arrived, Victim was transported to Northeast Georgia Medical Center in Gainesville. Once at the hospital, it was found that Victim had cracked ribs and a collapsed lung. A MRI and CT scan was performed on Victim. After this, Victim was diagnosed with a rare heart condition. The doctors believe that the heart condition is what attributed to the incident.

There is nothing further to report.


BARDID: GA-2023-0084
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-05-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 07:30:00
State: GA
NearestCityTown: ST MARYS
County: CAMDEN
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: Y
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Restricted vision
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
I GW, at 0739 on 5/29/31, was notified of a vessel striking the north side jetties in the Cumberland Sound by Camden County Sheriff Deputy. I arrived at 0800 at the Crooked River Boat House and launched the Edge Water. Then proceeded to the incident location arriving at approximately 0830. Nassau County Sheriff Office and the Camden County Sheriff Office vessels were on scene already. I spoke with the owner and operator of the vessel. He stated to me that he had left Fernandina Beach Marina and headed north. He stated that he struck the jetties because of sun in his eyes and that the boat came to a slow stop. Water was coming aboard the vessel and the bilge pumps couldn't keep up with the flow of water. He had to bail water to allow the pumps to keep up with the leak. Tow Boat USA arrived at 0845 and installed another pump to help keep the vessel afloat and towed the boat to Tiger Point Marina in Fernandina Beach FL. No injuries were sustained  by the Operator or passenger.


BARDID: GA-2023-0085
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:00:00
State: GA
County: GLYNN
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: Y
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Storm
Visibility: Unknown
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
I, Game Warden, on 07/20/2023 at approximately 1600 was notified of a vessel collision that occurred on 07/11/2023 at the Jekyll Marina on Jekyll Island. A vessel named "Ramble On" was docked at the Jekyll Marina during the incident. The vessel named "ZEN" was anchored off of the Jekyll Marina. At approximately 1400 on 07/11/2023 a squall formed and dragged the ZEN from anchor and struck the Ramble On. 

I spoke with both parties on 07/20/23 and both stories of how the incident occurred matched. Both parties have swapped insurance and are taking care of the damages. Estimation of damage for both vessels is still pending. I spoke with staff at the Jekyll Marina and the information given matched that of the vessel owner's.

09/04/23 completion of report after receiving final damage estimate. *** The actual date for the incident occurred on July 10th, 2023, with a wind of approximately 56 MPH. This wind was the main contributing factor for the “ZEN” being dragged off anchor and colliding with “Ramble On” at the Jekyll Marina. GW


BARDID: GA-2023-0086
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:00:00
State: GA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Brunswick River
County: GLYNN
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: Y
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Person departed vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
RedactedNarrative:
On 07/08/2023 at 1900 hours, I, Game Warden was notified about a boating incident that happened around 1600 hours on the sandbar just west of Blythe Island Regional Park in the Brunswick River.  I called Sgt. to let him know about the boating incident.  I then called the Glynn/Brunswick Dispatch center to get more information on what time EMS was called and where the victim was taken.  The dispatcher told me that the victim was 13 years old and was taken by EMS to the Emergency Room at Southeast Georgia Health Systems in Brunswick.  I went to Southeast Georgia Health Systems in Brunswick to see if Victim was still at the hospital being treated.

	Once at the hospital, I was informed by medical staff that he was transported to Memorial Hospital in Savannah for Pediatric Care.  I got Victim and his parents information.  

Stopped to let my son swim on sand bar, I thought he was good to exit the boat on the left side.  He went to the back of the boat and the engine was still running.  He got hit by the propeller immediately after he entered the water. 
--
Spent the day tubing.  Before going home victim wanted to get in the water so we found a sandbar with only 4 ft (it was high tide) so we stopped there.  My husband was trying to stay at that spot, but tide was quick - so before we realized it, victim was going down the ladder by the motor.  Victim was pushed by tide against the propeller & was cut.

--

We were out tubing a good portion of the day.  We were about to head home.  I mentioned we should stop and look at the sand bar.  The depth ran about 3-4 ft on depth gauge.  He (Dad) was working on getting it neutral.  I was in the boat and climbed down the steps/ladder by the motor, and then when I went to swim out the propeller caught me on my right leg. *** 


BARDID: GA-2023-0087
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-12-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 00:00:00
State: GA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Brunswick River
NearestCityTown: ST SIMONS ISLAND
County: GLYNN
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: Y
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Electrical
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (non-fuel)
AccidentEvent2: Fire/explosion (fuel)
RedactedNarrative:
On 12/24/2023, at 0010, I, Game Warden responded to a boat that was on fire at Morning Star Marina on St Simons Island in Glynn County.  When I arrived, I first spoke with the owner, and the occupant.  Owner and Occupant both said they woke up to the smell of smoke, got off the boat, and called the fire department.  I asked Owner where they were headed and he said they were headed to Fort Lauderdale in Florida.  Owner said they were only staying for the night.  I asked Owner what kind of boat he had.  Owner said the boat is a 42 foot Marquis Powerboat with twin inboard diesel engines.  I told Owner and Occupant that I will get witness statements from them in a little bit.

	After getting some basic information from Owner and Occupant, I walked down to the end of the dock, where the boat was located.  Glynn County Fire Department was already on scene fighting the fire that was inside the cabin of the boat.  I spoke with the batallion chief, who said that a retired fire fighter, who is living on a neighboring boat, hit the fuel shutoff switch first thing.  The batallion chief asked if I talked with the owner and occupant of the boat.  I told him that I spoke with them briefly and got some basic information from them.

	After fighting the fire for almost two hours, Glynn County Fire was able to put the fire out inside the boat.  At 0200 the boat sank at the dock.  I told Owner and Occupant that I will meet with them in the morning and get witness statement forms from them.  The batallion chief with Glynn County Fire took Owner and Occupant to a hotel on St. Simons Island so they would have a place to stay for the night. *** 	On 12/24/2023, at 0930, I, Game Warden met with the General Manager back at Morning Star Marina to assess any other damages and get a better look at things during daylight hours.  I took some picture of the damaged areas of the dock where the boat was tied up to.  He called a marine salvage company that was local to possibly get an estimate on the damages done.  The owner of the salvage company came out and assessed the damages.  The current quote of damages done to the dock and pilings at the marina is at $300,000. *** 	On 12/24/2023, at 1130, I, Game Warden Met with Owner and Occupant at the Glynn County Police Department's headquarters.  Owner and Occupant were able to provide me written witness statements at this location.  Owner said that he is going to get a new phone and will get me his insurance policy once he has a new phone. *** The following statement *** The following is Owner statement:

Around 1130 pm while I was sleeping I wake up to heavy smoke in my room.  I went outside to get fresh air and saw its getting worse.  I wake up my partner in other room.  Once we was outside the boat I shut off he shore power electric.  Once I did that flames started in the kitchen area and in few second big fire.  We called 911 and fire department was on the way to us. *** The following statement is Occupant witness statement:

At 1150 my friend wake me up.  Both of us sleeping.  The boat with full of smoke.  We go outside to see whats going and is minute after the boat got on fire.  I call police department and they sent the fire department.


BARDID: GA-2023-0088
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-08-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
State: GA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Lanier
NearestCityTown: FLOWERY BRANCH
County: HALL
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Person departed vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
RedactedNarrative:
On 8/13/2023 at approximately 1730 I Cpl. was informed about a boating incident that had occurred at the “No Wake” zone at Aqualand Marina. I was told that a 22-year-old male had jumped off the back of a vessel to relieve himself while the boat had only just stopped at the buoy line and when he had come up to the surface, he was screaming that he had been cut by the prop. 

The man was pulled out of the water and taken to Aqualand Marina’s gas dock where the group from the boat met an ambulance, and he was taken to Northeast Georgia Medical Center for treatment. I went by truck to the Hospital with Sgt., and we interviewed the victim and two witnesses. Victim had a large cut on his shoulder where the prop had cut down into the muscles of his back. The witnesses stated that at the time Victim jumped into the water a wave came which pulled the stern of the boat down along with pushing Victim towards the vessel this cause the prop to strike Victim. 

On 8/14/23 I contacted the owner/operator of the vessel that the witnesses had stated was driving a man. Operator stated that he was facing forward looking towards the bow of the boat when Victim asked how much longer it would be until they could get to shore because he (Victim) needed to use the rest room. Operator said they would stop at the no wake zone and Victim could relieve himself then. When he throttled down at the “No Wake Zone” Victim quickly went from the bow to the stern and jumped into the lake before the prop had time to completely power down. 

In conclusion victim sustained lacerations to his back and shoulders when he carelessly jumped into the lake from the stern of the vessel before giving adequate time for the propeller of the vessel to completely slow down.


BARDID: GA-2023-0089
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-08-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:00:00
State: GA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Tidal Cree (VI)
NearestCityTown: BRUNSWICK
County: GLYNN
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: Y
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
	On 08/03/2023 I, Corporal, received a call about a boating incident at the Brunswick Landing Marina.  While I was heading to the scene, I was made aware that the United States Coast Guard was on scene and that the operator of the vessel could possibly be impaired.  Once on scene I met with Operator1.  Operator1 told me he just bought the boat in Florida and was trying to get the boat to South Carolina.  He called ahead to the Marina and reserved a slip.  It was after dark when he arrived at Brunswick Landing Marina.  Operator1 pulled, bow in, to the slip in front of the Marina Office.  When he reversed his engines, he lost power to his port engine.  Losing power to the port engine caused the bow of his boat to swing and strike a stainless steel housing that was around a fuel hose reel.  After striking the hose reel, Operator1 restarted his port engine and backed out of the slip.  His port engine again shut off and the current and wind caused his vessel to lay sideways against the docks and the ZED4, a boat docked at Brunswick Landing Marina.  Operator1 said he steered his vessel to the port and in doing so the pulpit and anchor hit another vessel, the Tortuga on its port stern.  During my interview with Operator1, I never suspected he was impaired.  I gathered the information from his vessel and photographed the suspected damages to his boat, the ZED4 and the Tortuga.  I also retrieved some videos taken at the scene.  The Videos show just as Operator1 suggest.   	
	
	The next day I returned to the Brunswick Landing Marina to see the damages in the daylight.   Operator1 said he would be fixing his damages on his own.  I reached out to the owners of the Tortuga and the ZED4 as well.  After contacting the owner of the Tortuga, I explained to him that I thought the only damages to his boat were gel coat scrapes caused by the anchor on Operator1’s boat. The gel coat damage appeared to be about 2-3 inches long.  The owner of the Tortuga was not currently at the Marina to assess the damages to his vessel.  I suggested having someone give an estimate for the damages.  Without having a professional opinion, I valued the damages at $1 to complete this report.  It can be amended once the owner returns and receives an estimate.

	The owner of the ZED4 said that he lived out of State and would be coming to Brunswick the following week to assess the damage to his vessel.  It appeared that the ZED4 sustained gel coat damage as well to the stern.  A chunk of gel coat was missing and a scrape.  The damage was photographed. I told the owner of the ZED4 to call me when he made it to Brunswick to assess the damages.     *** On 08/09/2023 I was contacted by the owner of the ZED4 vessel.  The owner was concerned about an expensive piece of equipment that was mounted on the stern but said it did not appear to be damaged.  When I asked the owner of the ZED4 what he thought the damages would cost, he told me he didn't think they were substantial and would be repairing them on his own.  I spoke with the owner of the ZED4 via telephone.  He expressed his concerns with Operator1 operating a vessel with defective equipment.  He told me he believed it was irresponsible for the State to allow Operator1 to continue his voyage with motors that do not run properly.  I explained to him that we could not hold someone against their will just because they are having engine trouble.  He also told me that Operator1 should be required to complete some kind of vessel/boat competency class, which I explained the State does require but Operator1 was beyond the age requirements.  Because I was under the impression that subject was going to handle his own repairs, I did not initially put him in the report.


BARDID: GA-2023-0090
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-08-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:00:00
State: GA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Oconee
NearestCityTown: EATONTON
County: PUTNAM
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
RedactedNarrative:
At approximately 1900 hrs on 08/05/23, Game Warden received a call from Putnam County Sheriff's Office in reference to a capsized vessel at Fish Tale Marina on Lake Oconee. Once on scene, GW observed the vessel was retrieved from the water, but upside down on the trailer. No injuries were reported at this time. GW spoke with themon the situation. 

Both stated they launched the vessel near Fish Tale Marina. After launching, they traveled under the Hwy 44 bridge out towards the main channel of Lake Oconee, but soon turned around due to Subject1 not liking the wakes. They then headed back under the Hwy 44 bridge, stopping in the middle of Lick Creek to swim/fish. An hour later, They noticed the vessel taking on water. 

Everyone was informed to climb back in the vessel and They headed towards the Marina docks. Once at the docks, Subject1 exited with their children while operator tried to load the vessel on the trailer. When Operator placed the vessel in reverse, the vessel started to capsize just short of the trailer. Several pedestrians close by assisted

 They in hooking the vessel to the trailer, wenching it upside down, and partially onto the trailer. They drug the vessel up the parking lot to a parking space in front of the Marathon gas station. Damage observed were to the boat motor cowling, entire windshield of the vessel (busted/shattered/folded in), railings, canopy, and trolling motor. Bo's Wrecker Company were contacted for assistance, but did not have any available drivers. GW walked over to Fish Tale Marina to see if anyone was available to assist with righting the vessel using a fork lift/pulley. Unfortunately, no one was available at the Marina either. At this time, GW walked into the Marathon gas station, hoping to speak with a manager about They leaving the vessel overnight until a towing company could be contacted. The clerk on duty called the Marathon manager, who advised They would not be able to leave the vessel in the parking lot overnight. An additional clerk gave GW another towing company to try. GW informed They of the situation and provided them with Taylor's Towing Company out of Eatonton. Roughly thirty minutes later, Taylor's Towing Company arrived and were able to remove the vessel from the trailer, place it back in the water, and place it back on They vessel trailer. GW assisted in making sure the vessel was strapped down and no items were able to cause a hazard on the roadway while They traveled home. They advised GW when they made it home safely.

"While on the lake left of the boat ramp I notice the boat was taken on water. I told everyone to get back on the boat. Everyone got on the boat and we made our way to the boat ramp and everyone got off and everybody was safe. The boat turned over and started to sink. I hook wrench to it and pulled it out of the water upside down. DNR was called and report was made."

, "We put the boat in and went to the left of the Marina to swim/fish. Approx an hour later, we noticed the boat was taking on water. We quickly made our way back to the Marina. We got close to the trailer but the boat was filling up too fast w/ water. Within about 5 min the boat capsized and 1/2 way sunk. We had a few people help us get it out of the water upside down onto the trailerto then drag it out of the water."


BARDID: GA-2023-0091
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-05-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:30:00
State: GA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Oconee
NearestCityTown: GREENSBORO
County: GREENE
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: Y
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Unseen water hazard
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
RedactedNarrative:
On 5/29/23 at approximately 1830 hours, CPL received a call from dispatch that there was a boat that was sinking at the community docks at Del Webb.  CPL arrived on scene at approximately 1900 hours.    They were in the process of pumping out their boat and putting it back on their boat trailer at the ramp next to the docks.  Operator said that he had just bought the boat and that it was not insured.

Once they had their boat loaded, CPL took pictures of the vessel which are attached to this report.  GW spoke with Operator via telephone and said the incident occured under highway 20 bridge. Operator said he saw the hazard buoy stayed to the left but still went through the standing timber causing the impact to the vessel.  He said that he was towed to the docks by a bystander.

All video recordings and photographs of this incident are located on the department's Visual Labs system.


BARDID: GA-2023-0092
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-06-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:15:00
State: GA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Oconee
NearestCityTown: EATONTON
County: PUTNAM
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: Y
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Poor
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
AccidentCause2: Weather
AccidentCause3: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Electrical
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Sinking
AccidentEvent3: Collision with fixed object
RedactedNarrative:
I Game Warden on 06/25/23 received a call regarding a report of a possible sunken vessel at Sugar Creek Boat Ramp on Lake Oconee (Waters of the State of Georgia). I arrived at approximately 20:35 hours. The vessel was a now loaded on to a trailer and had been removed from Lake Oconee. After making contact with the owner he advised the incident happened at 19:15 hours and explained what took place. 

Operator and his wife along with their son were on the vessel during the incident. The family was heading in to the Sugar Creek boat ramp when a thunderstorm began to take place. Waves started to swamp the vessel and the bilge pump was unable to displace the amount of water coming into the vessel. 

Operator was able to bring the vessel to the dock at Sugar Creek Boat Ramp but while he was getting his vehicle to remove the vessel, it became fully submerged and was being pushed up against the dock from waves causing damage to the hull on the bow on the starboard side. Nearby witness was able to assist Operator with removing the vessel from Lake Oconee. All occupants were unharmed during this incident.


BARDID: GA-2023-0093
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:15:00
State: GA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Oconee
NearestCityTown: GREENSBORO
County: GREENE
WaterConditions: Calm
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
RedactedNarrative:
On July 5, 2023 CPL was notified of a report of a boating incident that occurred on Lake Oconee (Waters of the State of Georgia). CPL made contact with the owner of the dock via telephone and traveled to the location of the incident. 

CPL made contact with a witness who reported that the incident occurred on July 1,2023 between 10 and 10:30 hours and saw a vessel strike a dock. The operator stopped after the incident and exchanged information with neighbors of the dock that was struck. 

After making several attempts to contact Operator regarding this incident, I Game Warden was able to make contact with Operator and he provided a witness statement regarding the incident. Operator informed myself GW via telephone he was the one operating the vessel and reported the same on his witness statement. According to Operator while he was operating the vessel and towing his children he looked down and struck the dock at a low rate of speed.  I GW spoke with another witness via telephone that saw the vessel strike the dock while towing and attempting to make a turn at a low rate of speed.


BARDID: GA-2023-0094
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-05-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:30:00
State: GA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Savannah River
NearestCityTown: GIRARD
County: BURKE
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: Y
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
RedactedNarrative:
On May, 5th, 2023, at approximately 1430 hours,  I Cpl., received a call from Georgia State Patrol about an unoccupied boat with the motor running that was found in the Savannah River.  The GSP dispatcher patched me over to the complainant who found the unoccupied boat.  I talked to the complainant about what he found.  

Subject1 told me he was on the Savannah River below Stoney Bluff Landing.  Subject1 was unsure if he was in Burke County or Screven County.  Subject1 said as he was heading down river, he saw a boat pushed up against the pylons on the Georgia side of the Savannah River. Subject1 said the boat was in gear and the throttle seemed to be wide open.  Subject1 did not see anybody around.  He pulled the auto shutoff switch on the boat motor and tied the boat to the pylons. Subject1 said there was a wallet still in the boat.  Subject1 said he found the boat at approximately 1400 hours and called the police.  I got Subject1' contact information and started making response plans.

I contacted Game Warden First Class.  GW1 was also aware of the incident.  I told GW1 I was en route to the Sylvania State Patrol Post to get the patrol boat.  GW1 met me at the Sylvania State Patrol Post and then he followed me to Stoney Bluff Landing. While en route to the boat ramp I made contact with Sergeant (GA DNR LE).  Sgt. was already aware of the situation and he told me Game Wardens from the next work section were supposed to meet us at the boat ramp.  GW1 and I met GW at Stoney Bluff Landing and launched two patrol boats at approximately 1600 hours.

GW1 and I went down river and found the boat the way the witness, Subject1, described.  The boat was a G3 aluminum flat bottom boat, approximately 14 feet long,with a Yamaha 9.9 horsepower gas engine tiller steer on the back. I photographed the boat and the contents in the boat.  I photographed the throttle position.  The throttle was accelerated to approximately 1/2- 3/4 throttle.  The gear shifter was in the forward position.  The auto shutoff switch was unhooked.  The starboard side bow of the boat had a dent and fresh transfer from a nearby pylon.  The starboard side gunnel of the boat was also bent  from the impact.  

Inside the boat there was an aluminum storage compartment built in to the boat on the starboard side. There was a large dent on the stern side of the storage box and the lid of the box was shoved forward towards the bow of the boat. The lid hinge was also busted.  There were two marine trolling batteries in the floor of the boat near the bow.  Both batteries were laying on the sides and there was a dent in the front seat pedestal.  The dent was likely caused from the impact of one of the trolling batteries when the battery shifted from the boat impacting the pylon.  There was transfer on the inside starboard side gunnel that is consistent with transfer from the battery.  There was also a plastic tackle box in the floor of the boat with a busted lid.  Other contents inside the boat were:  assorted tackle, fishing poles, opened bag of popcorn, assorted snacks in the storage compartment, a partial gallon jug of water, and approximately half of a half gallon of Canadian Supreme Whiskey. I documented the contents of the boat, the damage to the boat, and the fresh strike marks to the pylons where the boat was located.

After the boat was documented, GW1 and I started searching the vicinity near the boat using side scan sonar in the patrol boat.  Subjects  were also searching the river using a side scan sonar in their patrol boat.  At approximately 1700 ho


BARDID: GA-2023-0095
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-05-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:00:00
State: GA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Clarks Hill Lake
NearestCityTown: LINCOLNTON
County: LINCOLN
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Missing or inadequate navigation aids
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
RedactedNarrative:
On May 04, 2023, at approximately 2000 hrs, Operator and Subject1 were traveling by boat from Soap Creek to Elijah Clark State Park, headed towards the main channel of Clarks Hill Lake at a speed of approximately 30-35 mph. Operator advised that while nearing the mouth of Soap Creek, his vessel struck an unidentified object. 

According to Operator, his vessel impacted the object on its front to mid starboard half. After initial impact, the vessel ramped over the object, becoming airborne roughly 1 foot out of the water, with the object scraping underneath the operator’s console under the hull, forcing the vessel to rotate to the starboard side, and landing on its port side.

 Operator and Subject1 remained inside the vessel, unharmed. Once the occupants realized no injuries were involved, Operator turned his vessel around to observe the obstruction. A metal rod was briefly noticed with a large orange buoy tied off to it. Operator realized his vessel was taking on water, turned the bilge switch on, and proceeded to the Elijah Clark State Park boat ramp.

 Once at the ramp, the vessel had taken on too much water to be loaded on the trailer.  Operator ran the boat back out towards the open channel for the bilge to cycle out the excess water before returning to the boat ramp and loading the vessel. 

The next day, Operator rode a PWC (Jetski) out to the mouth of Soap Creek to identify the object more thoroughly. It appeared to Operator the object resembled a small light post or metal rod. Operator tried tying off to the object and removing it by use of the PWC. At this time, Operator realized the object was anchored to the floor of the lake. Once back on shore, Operator called the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and spoke with Ranger. Ranger notified his supervisors of the obstruction, as well as notifying DNR LE to complete the incident report for Operator.


BARDID: GA-2023-0097
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-09-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:45:00
State: GA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Tussahaw Creek
NearestCityTown: LOCUST GROVE
County: HENRY
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
RedactedNarrative:
On 09/05/2023 at 1713 HRS, I, Corporal with the Georgia Department of Natural Resources was notified of a possible drowning on the Tussahaw Reservoir in Henry County by Henry County Water Authority Officials. Initial witness statements indicated that a male subject fell out of a boat and went underwater while attempting to load it onto a trailer. 

The male was submerged for a period of time and was unresponsive when he was recovered from the water. Life saving measures were performed at the boat ramp but were unsuccessful at the time I received the call. 

	I arrived on scene at the Tussahaw Reservoir to investigate the incident at 1838 HRS. I met with the Henry County Officers on scene and was informed that a male subject had fallen into the water and possibly drowned while boating at the reservoir. I spoke with witnesses at the scene and learned that Victim and his friend were fishing the Tussahaw Reservoir that afternoon in a brown G3 Jon Boat. 

At approximately 1640 HRS, Victim dropped Friend off on the West dock of the reservoir so that Friend could back the boat trailer into the water at the ramp. After dropping Friend off, Victim drove the boat out into the reservoir approximately 50-80 yds off of the bank. At approximately 1645 HRS, Victim was seen by witnesses falling into the water. 

Victim was then seen floating face down in the water next to the boat. Witnesses on the bank began yelling for help and Friend dove into the water and began swimming to Victim. After Friend made it to Victim and the boat, Friend began calling out for help. 

A bystander swam out to Friend and assisted him with getting Victim and the boat back to the bank. Subject1 later explained that Victim's shirt was hung on a rod holder which kept him at the surface of the water. After Friend and Subject1 brought the boat and Victim back to the bank, CPR was performed on Victim and EMS was notified. EMS eventually arrived on scene and continued performing life saving measures. All life saving measures were unsuccessful. Deputy Coroner arrived on scene and Victim was pronounced deceased. Victim was then transported to a hospital in Dekalb County.

	After receiving information from the witnesses and meeting with the Deputy Coroner, I walked over to the G3 boat to documents the vessel's information. While investigating the boat with Henry County Water Authority Ranger, I learned that Ranger had performed a safety check on Friend and Victim earlier that afternoon. Ranger observed that they had the required number of PFDs (life jackets) on board but they were not being worn by Friend and Victim while they were boating.  

	After completing my investigation, Friend and the G3 boat were transported from the scene with assistance from Henry County Officers and Subject1.

	On 09/07/2023, I was informed by Deputy Coroner that Victim's cause of death was drowning. As of 09/12/2023, the full autopsy report is pending. 

Interviews with witnesses recorded on body worn camera. 


BARDID: GA-2023-0098
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:30:00
State: GA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Sinclair
NearestCityTown: EATONTON
County: PUTNAM
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Sharp turn
AccidentCause2: Improper loading
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
At approximately 1445 hours I, Game Warden, was notified by Sergeant of a boating incident that occurred on Lake Sinclair resulting in an injury. I arrived on scene at approximately 1505 hours where Putnam Fire and EMS were waiting. I spoke with the injured occupant’s husband. 

Operator stated that they had been wake boarding in the Steel Bridge area of Lake Sinclair. He stated that his wife was acting as the observer on the pontoon boat when their nephew who was wake boarding, fell. 

As Operator turned the boat to collect the fallen wake boarder, a tube that was resting on top of the bimini top fell, knocking Occupant into the water. Occupant’s leg then got wrapped up in the rope of the wake boarder, injuring the muscles in her leg. EMS transported her to the hospital. Occupant had a bad sprain in her ankle and swelling in the ligaments and tendons of her right leg, resulting in her wearing a boot. End of report.


BARDID: GA-2023-0099
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-09-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:30:00
State: GA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Sinclair
NearestCityTown: EATONTON
County: PUTNAM
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentCause3: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On September 23rd at approximately 1540 hours I, Game Warden, was notified of a boating incident on Lake Sinclair by dispatch. Dispatch advised that a jet ski had struck a boat but that no one was injured in this incident. I reached out to the boat owner who called in the incident. After speaking with Operator1, I advised that he and the other party should go to Crooked Creek Marina, due to where the incident happened on the lake. I called Putnam dispatch and asked if they could have a deputy wait with them until I could get there.

When I arrived on scene I spoke with Operator1 and the operator of the jet ski. Operator1 advised that he was traveling south on Lake Sinclair between Oconee Springs Park and Crooked Creek Marina in his Eliminator speedboat. Operator1 stated that he saw the jet ski to his right which was also traveling south and another boat with a knee boarder to his left that was traveling south. Operator1 stated that the jet ski to his right was traveling with another vessel that was to his right. Operator1 stated that the jet ski was following closely with that other vessel to Operator1’s right. Operator1 was operating his vessel between the two when the knee boarder to his left fell. 

The jet ski then attempted to cut across boat traffic to get to the knee boarder who fell. When this occurred the jet ski struck Operator1’s vessel on the starboard side just in front of the operator’s console. Operator1 stated that he tried to turn his vessel to the left to avoid collision. Operator1 stated that he was traveling at approximately 30 miles an hour when this occurred. Operator1 stated that he was over 100 feet away from the jet ski to his right and the boat to his left when he was operating between the two. 

When I spoke with Operator2, she advised that she was traveling south on Lake Sinclair with her party, the boat that had a knee boarder and another vessel when the incident occurred. Operator2 stated that she was being a lookout for the vessel with a wake boarder when the wake boarder fell. Operator2 stated she then looked over her left shoulder and did not see Operator1’s vessel. Operator2 stated that she then attempted to cross to her left to go to the downed knee boarder. Operator2 stated that she then saw Operator1’s vessel come out of no where and tried to turn right to avoid collision. Operator2 stated that she was not injured and that she was wearing a life jacket during the incident. At the time I did not see any damages to the jet ski while it was tied to the dock at the marina. 

After speaking with both parties and taking pictures of the damages to Operator1’s boat, I charged Operator2 with rules of the road violation. I explained that she failed to yield to Operator1’s boat and that he was the stand on vessel. I explained that she attempted to cross boat traffic without giving a proper look out. 

At the time of the incident Operator2 told me that she thought she had boater's education but was not sure. After further investigation it was found that she did not have it. Due to the distance to her home I asked Corporal to meet with Operator2. Corporal met with Operator2 to give her the citation I issued to her for operating without boater's education. 


BARDID: GA-2023-0100
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:20:00
State: GA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Jackson
NearestCityTown: JACKSON
County: BUTTS
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
RedactedNarrative:
On the afternoon of 7/30/2023, I Cpl. and Sgt. were patrolling Jackson Lake when we received a call from the Butts County Sheriff's office about a possible boating incident at Lloyd Shoals Park.  We responded to the area and found EMS leaving with the victim.  

Sgt. and I interviewed the witnesses that were in the boat with the victim (friends and family). Each witness stated that Victim was wake boarding and just fell normally.  They explained that a previous attempt at wake boarding had resulted in a fall that appeared to be much worse than the fall where she was injured. 

The vessel owner explained that he was driving the vessel that was towing the victim. He stated that when the victim fell, he nor any other passenger's, noticed anything unusual about the fall.  However, he stated that as he pulled his vessel around to pick up the victim he could hear her sobbing in pain. He and the other passengers, got the victim onboard his vessel and transported her to LLoyd Shoals Park where local EMS evaluated her condition and transported her to Piedmont Macon Hospital where she was seen by Dr..  I spoke with the victims father after the incident while he was at the hospital. He advised that the victim was determined to have a fracture in her right tibia. She was treated and released from the hospital.


BARDID: GA-2023-0102
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:30:00
State: GA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Clarks Hill Lake
NearestCityTown: THOMSON
County: MCDUFFIE
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Person departed vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On the listed date above at approximately 1755, I Game Warden and Sgt. got dispatched to a boating incident call that a man had his leg stuck under a pontoon in the cove across from Rayville Marina on Clarks Hill Lake. We arrived on scene at 1822 where Cpl. picked us up by boat. When we got to the incident location where fire and EMS had the man on board headed back to the marina. 

We boarded the vessel where we could smell the strong odor of alcoholic beverages. We could see the man with a small laceration below the knee of his left leg. We also noticed an empty bag with around ten or more empty Coors/ Bud Light/ and Michelob ULTRA cans. EMS and fire loaded him on a stretcher and put him in the back of the ambulance. The other occupant on board was uninjured and explained to us the incident where Victim was operating the boat and had run aground on a sandbar. Victim was going to get off to push the boat off the sandbar. While trying to depart from the vessel via the ladder he slipped and fell with his left leg going through one of the rungs of the ladder. He could not manage to get himself out. Subject1 stated she had to help hold Victim above water till EMS arrived. The vessel listed above was a rental Pontoon from Points West. We checked for all safety equipment and the rental paperwork. Sgt then addressed all the alcohol on the boat and what Victim was drinking. Subject1 explained to us that she didn’t drink beer. She had her own alcoholic beverages on board. We checked Subject1 to see if she was able to drive or take the boat back and as a result, Sgt. deemed her unable to drive. Subject1 then had someone come pick her up and an employee from Points West came to pick up the pontoon. Sgt. and I followed up with  Victim at the hospital but did not get an extent to his injury’s. 


BARDID: GA-2023-0103
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-10-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:10:00
State: GA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Clarks Hill Lake
NearestCityTown: APPLING
County: COLUMBIA
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Electrical
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On October 24, 2023, I, Game Warden was called about a boating incident that happened at Trade Winds marina due to a houseboat (Vessel 1) losing power to one engine. Vessel 1 was being moved to WildWoods Park boat ramp to be pulled out of the water for scheduled maintenance. I arrived at Wildwoods at 0945 with Game Warden. The owner of vessel 1 stated upon leaving the docking space at Trade Winds exiting the marina one engine had lost power causing the port side stern to make contact to the stern of another docked houseboat (Vessel 2) causing damage to both vessels. Vessel 1 had damage to both rear port side windows and the Fiberglass around the windows. Vessel 2 had damage to the railing, and the anchoring winch mounted to the floor located at the stern of the vessel. 


BARDID: GA-2023-0104
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-12-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:00:00
State: GA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Blackshear
NearestCityTown: VIENNA
County: DOOLY
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Sudden medical condition
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
RedactedNarrative:
On Saturday, December 30th, 2023, at approximately 1800 hours, Corporal, Game, and I responded to an unresponsive person call on Lake Blackshear.  Crisp County E911 Communications told us there was an unresponsive male in the lake.  Dispatchers said the male was partially held up out of the water by his son, who was in a boat. I responded to the Camper’s Haven Boat Ramp where Crisp County Emergency Medical Services were staged up.  

Cpl. and GW responded by patrol boat and at approximately 1840 hours, located the 51-year-old unresponsive male near Beaver’s Den in Dooly County.  Victim was unconscious and partially in the water.  Victim was being held on to by his 20-year-old son who was in a red and silver Stratos Fish and Ski boat.  As Cpl and GW1 approached the Stratos boat, Crisp County Sheriff advised Subject1 was autistic and epileptic. Cpl and GW1 placed Victim and Subject1 in their patrol boat and transported both subjects to the Camper’s Haven Boat Ramp in Dooly County. While on the way to the boat ramp GW1 performed CPR on Victim. 

	At approximately 1855 hours Cpl and GW1 arrived at the Camper’s Haven Boat Ramp and turned Victim and Subject1 over to Crisp County EMS where they transported them to Crisp Regional Hospital.  Cpl and GW1 then went back to Victim’s boat and transported it back to the Mega Ramp at Georgia Veteran’s State Park.  Boat was secured on his trailer and towed to the Lake Blackshear Work Section Boat House. 

	At approximately 1942 hours I arrived at Crisp Regional Hospital in Cordele Georgia to speak with Subject1 to gather information about the incident. Subject1 said he and Victim were fishing when Victim stood up to rig his fishing pole when his body went limp, and fell into the water. Subject1 said Victim landed headfirst in the water with his feet over his head and the boat started drifting away. Subject1 used the boat’s trolling motor to get back to Victim, which took approximately 5-10 minutes.  Subject1 said Victim was wearing waders which helped him float until he could get back over to him. When Subject1 got back to Victim, he was able to pull his head and upper body out of the water where he found Victim to be completely unresponsive with his mouth open. Subject1 called Crisp County E911 Communications.

	 At approximately 2130 hours I was back 10-8 from Crisp Regional. 
Dooly County Deputy Coroner said the cause of death was immersion in water and Hypothermia, Other significant conditions: Cardiac Dysrhythmia, Syncope. The manner of the death was ruled accidental.


BARDID: GA-2023-0105
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-11-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:45:00
State: GA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Sinclair
NearestCityTown: MILLEDGEVILLE
County: BALDWIN
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Steering
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent2: Collision with fixed object
RedactedNarrative:
On November 3rd, 2023, at approximately 1515 hours, Game Warden received a call from Baldwin County Sheriff’s office about a boating incident on Lake Sinclair. The incident took place in front of Sinclair Marina and a dock. Baldwin County Sheriff’s office let Game Warden an individual was thrown from his vessel and the vessel contacted a nearby dock stopping the vessel. Game Warden responded at 1548 hours.
	Upon arrival, I spoke with the operator of the vessel. Operator stated that he was out water testing the vessel. He throttled the vessel up to about 15-20 mph to get the boat on plane. Operator then stated while he was trying to get the vessel up to speed, he lost steering control (steering cable broke) and the boat veered left throwing him out. 

The vessel went in circles and ended up contacting a nearby dock several times until it finally became lodged into the dock stopping the vessel. another employee at Sinclair Marina witnessed the vessel traveling in a weird direction with no one in control through the showroom windows. Employee went to rescue Operator from the water and access the boat.
	I spoke with the owner of the dock that was hit by the vessel. She stated that she saw the vessel going in circles near her dock. Then it made contact with the dock several times. GW gathered pictures of the vessel’s damage and the dock’s damage. Operator had no injuries. 
	Witness statements along with the images of the vessel and dock are included in this report.


BARDID: GA-2023-0106
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-02-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:53:00
State: GA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Oliver
NearestCityTown: COLUMBUS
County: MUSCOGEE
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent3: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On February 23, 2023, at approximately 18:50 hrs. I, Cpl. was notified of a boating incident that occurred in Muscogee County on Lake Oliver by Sgt.. I contacted Muscogee County Dispatch, and they advised me that two juvenile subjects were involved in a Personal Watercraft (PWC) incident. Dispatch advised that a juvenile male and female riding on a PWC had struck a boat dock, with injuries and Emergency Personnel were en route. 

He stated that a young male and female had just left by ambulance, en route to Piedmont Medical Center Midtown. He said that both individuals were alert. We were met by a neighbor,  who stated that he would walk us to the backyard to see the incident scene and speak with the homeowners. I spoke to the homeowner and his wife. 

The wife stated that she was in the kitchen facing the lake when she heard a loud crash. When she went outside to investigate, she saw a young male and female walk off her dock. The male was in a lot of pain grasping at his stomach. The male vomited twice before collapsing. The female seemed in better physical condition but disoriented. She stayed with them until Emergency Services arrived. She stated that the male was conscious the whole time but seemed to be in great pain…


BARDID: GA-2023-0107
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-10-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:30:00
State: GA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Hartwell
NearestCityTown: HARTWELL
County: HART
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person struck by propeller
RedactedNarrative:
On October 2, 2023, Cpl and I, Game Warden responded to a boating incident on Lake Hartwell (water of the State). The call came in as two jet skis struck each other.  Upon arrival to Hartwell Marina, I met with individual who works for Hartwell Marina and he advised it was a Jon boat that was involved in the incident and not jet skis.  He took me to the vessel and showed me where the transom was bent. This appeared to be the only damage to the vessel.  

After speaking to Operator he advised his friend and he had been fishing on Lake Hartwell and ran onto a shoal causing him to lose control of the tiller steer motor, ejecting both subjects into the water. He stated that the boat kept circling them and struck Victim on the shoulder and head.  A passerby saw them and were able to get their boat stopped and help both boys back into their boat.  Operator advised Victims grandmother picked them up and dropped Operator off at home then left to take Victim to the hospital at St. Mary's Hospital in Lavonia to be checked out due to the skeg hitting him on the shoulder and head.

Cpl advised he would be en route to the hospital and wait for my arrival.  We met in the parking lot and began to walk in the hospital when Victim's grandfather was walking out and we spoke briefly to him. His account of what happened coincided with Operators story.  He was given staples along the left side if his head and between his left shoulder and neck.  

I met with Operator's mother on October 5, 2023 and issued her one citation for allowing underage person to operate an improper vessel. She understood and told me her son is working on completing boater education course and will have it done before operating again.  Nothing further is needed for this incident and this matter is considered closed.


BARDID: GA-2023-0108
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-09-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:09:00
State: GA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Sinclair
NearestCityTown: MILLEDGEVILLE
County: BALDWIN
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Improper loading
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On September 16th, 2023, at approximately 1720 hours, Corporal received a call from Baldwin County Sheriff's office about a boating incident on Lake Sinclair. Game Warden contacted Baldwin County Sheriff’s office for more information on the incident. Baldwin County Sheriff's office let us know that there was one female injured and being transported to Navient Health Baldwin Emergency Department. Cpl. and I responded at 1838 hours. 

Upon arrival, I spoke with the operator of the Vessel. Operator1 stated that there were six people total on the pontoon that she had rented from East Lake Escape RV Resort and Boat. She said they were pulling a tube with three people behind the pontoon when it started to rain. They stopped the boat and started pulling the tube back towards the vessel with the rope. 

Subject tried stepping back onto the boat off the tube and fell on a metal cleat. She became impelled by the cleat on her inner thigh. Operator1 called 911 and they waited for first responders before they moved her from the cleat. When first responders moved Victim, they put a tourniquet above her thigh.  

We had subject fill out witness statements at the house near the incident. I gathered pictures of the vessel and asked if the operator had anything to drink. Operator1 admitted to drinking alcohol, so I performed field sobriety. Operator1 was released on scene following field sobriety. Cpl. and I headed to Navient Health Baldwin Emergency Department where we contacted Victim. Nurses advised us that Victim had sustained a gash to her inner thigh and scrapes to her back. Victim received stitches to the gash on her thigh. I gathered witness statements. 
	Witness statements and images of the vessel are included in this report.


BARDID: GA-2023-0109
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-08-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:50:00
State: GA
NameOfBodyOfWater: West Point Lake
NearestCityTown: LAGRANGE
County: TROUP
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
RedactedNarrative:
On August 15, 2023, at 1456 hours, I, Game Warden with the Department of Natural Resources Law Enforcement Division received a call from GSP in regards to a possible boating incident on West Point Lake in Troup Co. GSP told me that a 13 year old male was receiving medical attention after he fell from a water tube near the Earl Cook boat access on West Point Lake. 

Upon arrival to Earl Cook boat access, Troup Co. Fire and EMS had already vacated the scene with the victim. Troup Co. Sherriffs office informed me that the victim was being transported to Wellstar West Georgia Medical Center in Lagrange for treatment. I left Earl Cook boat access and drove to West Georgia Medical Center to start my investigation. Shorlty after arriving at West Georgia Medical Center, I met grandmother of the injured 13 year old boy. Subject1 explained to me that her husband was driving their boat pulling a tube occupied by three of their grandchilden on West Point Lake near Earl Cook boat access. She was the observer while her husband was driving. She explained that while they were riding down the lake pulling the tube, her grandson, 13 year old fell off the tube. The other two grandchildren stayed on the tube. While Subject1's husband was driving around to pick up Victim, Victim refused to ride in the tube and complained of severe pain in his hip area. 

Once they learned of Victim's discomfort, Operator1 called 911 for medical assistance. I asked Subject1 if the children had on PFD's and she said that everyone had one on except for Operator1. Subject1 did tell me that Operator1 had a PFD for himself and that a Type IV throwable device and fire extinguisher were on board their vessel. After finishing with Subject1, I talked with Operator1 to understand the story of the day from his perspective. His story lined up with Subject1. I asked him how fast he was going at the time of  the incident and if there was any alcohol on board the vessel or if he had consumed any alcohol on or before this event. Operator1 informed me that he was going approximately 19 MPH when Victim fell off. He also told me that no alcohol was on board and that he did not drink alcohol at all. 

After finishing up with Operator1 at West Georgia Medical Center, I asked him if I could take a look at his vessel to get a couple pictures and examine the hull. Operator1 agreed and I followed him to his residence to examine his vessel. I found no visible hull damage or evidence of foul play on the vessel.  I told Operator1 to inform me of the medical results on Victim. Operator1 called and informed me later that evening that Victim had not broken or fractured any bones and that they thought he may have pulled a muscle or bruised an area near an artery. 


BARDID: GA-2023-0110
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-10-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 07:30:00
State: GA
NameOfBodyOfWater: West Point Lake
NearestCityTown: LAGRANGE
County: TROUP
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Improper loading
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
RedactedNarrative:
On October 14, 2023, at 0743 hours, I, Game Warden with the Georgia Department of Natural Resources received a call from Corporal in regards to a drowning on West Point Lake. I met Cpl at the West Point Lake boathouse and we proceeded to the scene with our state patrol vessel. The incident took place in the vicinity and within sight of the boat ramp at Liberty Hill Access. Upon arrival, Cpl and I located a blue in color Tracker pontoon vessel where the incident occurred. We identified and spoke with the operator and another occupant on board the pontoon vessel about the incident. They informed us that they were crappie fishing on West Point Lake when they decided to drop anchor. 

The drowning victim was attempting to drop the anchor into the water when he suddenly fell in head first from the pontoon vessel and did not resurface. Subject1 told us that he jumped in to rescue Victim but was unsuccessful. Subject1 informed Cpl and I that Victim could swim and built swimming pools for work. 

After Cpl and I finished speaking with Subject1 and Subject2, we ran our boat mounted sonar unit to see if we could locate the body of Victim. With our efforts proving unsuccessful, we spoke with Troup Co. Sheriffs office Sergeant to produce a plan for the recovery of Victim. We were informed that Columbus Fire and Rescue was en route. Sergeant came aboard our vessel to help us look for Victim with our boat mounted sonar until the Columbus dive team could arrive. While running sonar, we located a possible target and shared it with the dive team upon their arrival. After several hours of diving efforts, the Columbus dive team located Victim in approximately 18 feet of water. When Victim was retrieved from the water he was not wearing a personal flotation device. Troup Co. Sheriffs Office took possession of the body. The wife of victim and other family members were notified by Troup Co. Sheriff's Office personnel and Chaplain. 


BARDID: GA-2023-0111
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-06-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:45:00
State: GA
NameOfBodyOfWater: West Point Lake
NearestCityTown: WEST POINT
County: TROUP
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Improper loading
AccidentCause2: Sudden medical condition
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
RedactedNarrative:
On June 7th, 2023, at approximately 1221 hours, I, Game Warden (G.W.), was notified by GSP Dispatch of a possible drowning at West Point Lake located at R. Shaefer Heard Park boat landing. After gathering information from Troup County Sherriffs Office, Victim and Operator were on a Triton bass boat when they decided to dock the boat at R. Shaefer Heard boat landing and Victim attempted to step off onto the dock and lost his balance and fell into the water. 

Victim did not know how to swim and he ended up underneath the dock for a period of time while Operator threw him a personal flotation device (PFD). Operator stated later that the PFD hit Victim in the head but Victim could not hear him telling him to grab the life jacket. Victim finally came out from the dock but floating with his back up and still under the water. Operator and other bystanders assisted getting Victim on the dock and out of the water. One bystander started performing CPR since Victim was not breathing. EMS was called and later arrived on scene and transported Victim to West Georgia Medical Center in Lagrange, Georgia. 

I responded to the hospital and spoke with Operator. Operator confirmed the incidents that took place on West Point Lake to collaborate what Troup County Sherriffs Office was given as information on the incident. Operator stated that he and Victim went out fishing that morning and decided to come back in at approximately 1100 to 1200 hours. Operator stated that while he was docking the boat Victim was on the bow of the vessel. 

Operator stated that Victim attempted to step onto the dock so he could go back the boat trailer down but missed his step and fell into the water beside the dock. Operator stated that he threw a PFD at Victim's head and Victim did not respond to him yelling to grab the life jacket. Operator then stated that Victim drifted under the dock for a short period of time. Operator stated that Victim finally came out from under the dock and he and other bystanders assisted in pulling Victim onto the dock and out of the water. 

Operator stated one of the bystanders started CPR immediately because Victim was not breathing but mentioned that Victim did gasp initially when they pulled him up. Operator then stated EMS finally arrived and took Victim to the hospital. Operator and nurses at the hospital stated that Victim did not have any water in his lungs but stated he had a strong heartbeat but was not breathing well on his own. They also stated he was in a coma and not doing too well.

Operator updated me on June 8th, 2023, and stated that Victim did not make it and he was deceased. Operator said the doctors said Victim had fluid in his lungs but said it was from his heart.


BARDID: GA-2023-0112
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-08-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:00:00
State: GA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Allatoona Lake
NearestCityTown: CARTERSVILLE
County: BARTOW
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent3: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 and Vessel 2 were operating at a high rate of speed in close proximity to each other.  Vessel 1 was slightly in front of Vessel 2.  The operator of Vessel 1 turned to the right and slowed down directly in the path of Vessel 2.  Vessel 2 struck Vessel 1 on the starboard side near mid ship.  The operator of Vessel 1 was ejected and was injured in the process.


BARDID: GA-2023-0113
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:50:00
State: GA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Allatoona Lake
NearestCityTown: EMERSON
County: BARTOW
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
RedactedNarrative:
They informed us that one boat was capsized and that a 50 year old male had sustained injuries and was bleeding from the face.  

	We arrived on scene south of Bethany Bridge at approximately 1757.   I observed a white boat with a black male sitting on the stern, holding his face with a laceration to his left knee and to his upper lip.  There was a blue PWC capsized, floating behind the vessel.  

I spoke with subject who stated Operator1 had stuck one of the bridge pylons and they found him floating under Bethany Bridge.  Operator1 indicated that he could not speak saying his teeth were loose in his mouth so I asked him to write down his name and date of birth.  We got Operator1 on our vessel and transported him to the courtesy dock at Bethany Bridge boat ramp to Bartow EMS.  Subject towed the PWC, Georgia Registration, to the boat ramp where the registered owner, placed it on a trailer.    Cpl was standing by with Bartow County Fire/EMS when they placed Operator1 on the stretcher.  Operator1 spit out his loose teeth for them and was able to speak.   Cpl stated that he could smell marijuana on Operator1 as he was placed on the stretcher.   Operator1 was transported to Kennestone Hospital, Metro EMS run number 130310.

	I then went to speak with Subject2 and photograph the damaged PWC (attached photographs 1-3).  There was significant damage to the starboard side of the bow consistent with impacting a fixed object at a high rate of speed.  Subject2 stated that Operator1 was his cook and Operator1 told Subject2 that he knew how to operate a PWC.  I asked Subject2 if it had a fire extinguisher on board and he produced one that had the pin removed, making it unserviceable.  The missing pin was not observed in the front compartment.  Subject2 stated that he had insurance.  I then went to the bridge by vessel and observed a fresh white and blue impact site on the south side of the fourth pylon from the right when viewed from the South (attached photograph 4). 

	At approximately 1853 hours, I went to interview Operator1.  I arrived at approximately 1919 hours and was able to interview Operator1.  I observed Operator1 in a hospital bed missing a significant number of his teeth.  I asked Operator1 what had happened.  He stated he was driving toward the bridge when he had water splashed in his face.  When he wiped the water away and looked up, he realized he was at the pylon and could not avoid it.  I asked how fast he was travelling when he hit the bridge and he said about 30-35 mph.  I asked if he had taken a safety course and he said he had not.  I asked how long he had been out that day and he stated 10 minutes then said maybe 25 minutes.  He stated it was his second time operating a PWC, with approximately 6-7 hours of operating experience.  I asked Operator1 how much he had to drink, and he stated none, he does not drink.  I then asked how much marijuana he had smoked, that we could smell it on him at the boat ramp, and he said one blunt approximately 3-4 hours prior to the incident.   I asked Operator1 if they had done any tests or x-rays on him, and he said no but that he was missing 15 teeth.  I then asked the nurse what they had done so far and the extent of Operator1’ injuries.  She stated they had done a CT scan but the results were not in and that he was missing most of his teeth.  The nurse asked Operator1’ permission to share the results of the scan and Operator1 declined. 

	I then went back to Operator1, clarifying that I could not find out the extent of his injuries and he said no, he was done talking.  I confirmed Operator1’ address and phone number to contac


BARDID: GA-2023-0114
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:00:00
State: GA
NameOfBodyOfWater: West Point Lake
NearestCityTown: LAGRANGE
County: TROUP
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause3: Force of wake/wave
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
RedactedNarrative:
On July 22nd, 2023 at approximately 19:00 hours, I, Corporal with the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Law Enforcement Division was contacted by the Georgia State Patrol Dispatch concerning a boating incident with injuries on West Point Lake in Troup County near Yellow Jacket Beach.  

Game Warden and I responded by vessel to the location and made contact with a large group of people on the bank of Yellow Jacket Creek just south of the beach area with two fishing boats beached at the location.  Emergency Medical Services and the Fire Department were already on scene attending to the victim.  Once at the location, I was able to speak to a witness.  

Operator stated he was traveling north on Yellow Jacket Creek when he observed the vessel strike a large wake, became airborne, and then took a sharp right-hand turn.  Operator state the individuals were already thrown from the vessel when it took the right-hand turn. Operator stated he observed the individuals in the water and pulled over to assist when he noticed Victim had sustained a large laceration on the top of her foot.  Operator gave her a throwable floatation device, to support her injured leg and was pulled by boat over to the shoreline.  

Both operator and occupant stated they were traveling on the lake when they impacted a large wake, traveling at approximately 45 mile per hour.  The vessel ejected both from the vessel and then turned sharp to the right, or starboard side.  After Victim and occupant were ejected from the vessel, Victim was struck in the left foot by the propeller of the vessel, causing significant damage to the foot.  The vessel was identified as a Bass Tracker Pro Team 190 TX, 18 feet in length with a 115 horsepower outboard motor.  

Victim was attended to at the location by EMS and Fire/Rescue Services and was then flown by helicopter to the Trauma Center in Columbus.  I spoke with victim two days later to follow up on Victim’s injuries.  Victim stated she had completed surgery on the left foot and would need to have several others, but the doctors were optimistic she would make a recovery.  

Recorded on body camera.

Nothing further.


BARDID: GA-2023-0115
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:30:00
State: GA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Allatoona Lake
NearestCityTown: CARTERSVILLE
County: BARTOW
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: Y
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause3: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On 07/23/2022 I, Game Warden, responded to a boating incident near Dallas Beach Acworth Georgia. Once on scene I made contact with Acworth PD officers. 

	Officers advised there was a collision involving two PWCs (personal water craft). One individual suffered injuries to her right leg. She was transported to Kennestone Hospital by EMS.

	Operator 2 advised he was traveling South Bound away from the Old Highway 41 Day Use Area. V1 was traveling West Bound crossing in front of his vessel. Operator 2 was unable to avoid a collision with V1. The bow of V2 impacted the starboard side of V1. The Operator and the passenger of V1 were ejected from the vessel. The impact caused scuff marks and scratches to the bow of V2. 

	On 7/26/2023 I made contact with the Operator of V1 over the phone. She advised she was near the Old Highway 41 Day Use Area. She was unsure which direction she was traveling at the time of the incident. Operator 1 saw V2 traveling towards them but she was unable to avoid the collision. The bow of V2 impacted the starboard side of V1. The impact ejected her and her passenger from the vessel. The impact broke Operator 1’s right ankle. The passenger of V1 received several small lacerations to his right leg/ankle. The impact damaged the starboard side of V1 and the vessel started taking on water.

	Rules of Navigation rule 15 - Crossing Situation (a) When two power-driven vessels are crossing so as to involve risk of collision, the vessel which has the other on her own starboard side shall keep out of the way and shall, if the circumstances of the case admit, avoid crossing ahead of the other vessel. Rule 5 Lookout - 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.  

	All involved parties were advised how to obtain a copy of this report. Body camera video and audio is available for this call.


BARDID: GA-2023-1000
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-23 00:00:00
State: GA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Christmas Creek
NearestCityTown: St Marys
WaterConditions: Rough
Wind: Light
Visibility: Unknown
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
RedactedNarrative:
According to the Coast Guard, a vessel sustained damage after capsizing off the coast of Jekyll Island.   The two people were reported overdue.  They were located, one on top of the 16-ft capsized boat and the other in the water.  Neither were injured.


BARDID: GA-2023-1001
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-12-29 00:00:00
State: GA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Ocmulgee River
County: Butts
WaterConditions: Unknown
HazardousWaters: Y
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Unknown
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
RedactedNarrative:
It is assumed two people were washed out of their boat due to hazardous waters from the Llyod Shoals Dam.  Two people were rescued after being stranded on an island for several hours.  They were taken to a hospital for evaluation.


BARDID: HI-2023-0001
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2023-01-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
State: HI
NameOfBodyOfWater: Hilo Bay
NearestCityTown: Hilo
County: Hawaii
WaterConditions: Unknown
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Unknown
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
RedactedNarrative:
S/V is aground at Coconut Island. Apparently ran aground while recreational sailing in Hilo Bay today. No injuries; he was the only one onboard during the incident. Vessel broke its tiller, but is not taking on water. He declined rescue from HFD. He’s waiting until high tide in an attempt to get off the rocks.  I wanted to get the registration information, information on the owner, and his cell phone. 

The vessel was abandoned and salvaged by DLNR/DOBOR.


BARDID: HI-2023-0002
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-01-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:00:00
State: HI
NameOfBodyOfWater: South of Kahaluu Bay
NearestCityTown: Kailua-Kona
County: Hawaii
WaterConditions: Unknown
HazardousWaters: Y
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause3: Hazardous waters
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
RedactedNarrative:
LOCATION: Hawai’i Island, Kailua-Kona, South of Kahalu’u Bay. 

DATE AND TIME OF INCIDENT: January 5, 2023 approximately 1100 hrs. 

HA OR DOCUMENT NUMBER:   LENGTH OVER ALL:  27’ Open motor vessel. 

NARRATIVE OF THE EVENT:  On January 5, 2023, the writer heard a report of a grounded vessel on Channel 16 being made to the USCG of a grounded vessel inside the reef at Kahalu’u Bay.  Other vessels were attempting to provide assistance. This writer responded to that location and observed a vessel on the rocks south of Kahalu’u Bay on Kamehameha Schools property.  Hawai’i County Fire Department has landside units on the scene and information was provided that the operator and their passenger had already been removed from the vessel.  

Another vessel was standing offshore attempting to put a swimmer with a line in the water to attach to the grounded vessel.  This writer then sought and obtained access to Kamehameha Schools property which provided closer access to the grounded vessel.  The writer was subsequently joined by USCG Petty Officer and we proceed to the grounded vessel. Upon our arrival the vessel had managed to secure a line to the grounded vessel and was “jerking” the line under throttle to bring the bow of the grounded vessel 180 degrees around, so it was facing the ocean. 

An off-duty Hawai’i County Firefighter who had likewise responded to the distress began to push the vessel seaward timing these efforts with approaching waves while the vessel applied throttle simultaneously. These efforts continued until the vessel refloated and was taken under tow to Honokohau.  Upon returning to Honokohau SBH contact was made with DOCARE who advised they were in possession of the operator’s information and likewise the grounded vessel’s Hawaii registration.  On January 11, 2023 contact was made with Kona Boat Rentals Manager who provided the operator’s contact information, and that the vessel has sustained approximately $7,000.00 in damage to its hull and outboard motor. 

He noted that the operator and his passenger sustained no injuries. This writer then made contact with the operator who conveyed that he and his daughter were onboard the vessel and had been snorkeling by mooring to a day use buoy when they decided to proceed to “Captain Cook”  Kealakekua Bay. It should be noted there are no day use moorings in this area.  As the vessel got underway Operator noted he was plotting a course to that destination on the chart plotter while his daughter was preoccupied on her cell phone.  

Operator believed his course maintained sufficient distance from the shoreline when he heard a loud bang and realized the vessel had made contact with the bottom.  Attempts to return the vessel to deeper water were unsuccessful and wave action took it further into shore where it was hard aground.  He denied the use of alcohol or drugs. He did not have a California Safe Boaters Card and described himself as an experienced boater in protected waters (lakes, rivers). He had no prior experience boating in Hawaii prior to the grounding. Suspected cause of grounding: controlled navigation into shore due to inattention.  AGENCIES THAT RESPONDED: Hawaii County Fire Department, USCG, DOBOR. ANYTHING ELSE NOTEWORTHY: None.  AFTER THE FACT: COST OF DISPOSAL IF DOBOR PAID: Vessel was successfully removed from shoreline and insured.  ACCIDENT REPORT IN PROGRESS?  No.  Report closed.


BARDID: HI-2023-0003
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-01-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
State: HI
NameOfBodyOfWater: Pacific Ocean
NearestCityTown: Hounaunau
County: Hawaii
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Improper loading
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
RedactedNarrative:
VICTIM:                
5’10’      185lbs  
Curly brown hair with white mustache and beard
 
Boat is a 18-20’ Striper SeaSwirl White (no name and possibly not registered)
 
Made contact with Subject1 at Honauanu Boat Ramp at approximately 1900hrs.  He states they were fishing (handline) for ahi when Subject2 hooked up with a fish.  Subject1 mentioned the last thing he heard from Subject2 was “Subject1 this fish is huge”, then saw Subject2 go overboard and into the water.  He states he tried to grab the line but could not hold and keep the line from running.  Subject1 states he initially saw Subject2 on the surface of the water then a second later he was gone.  Subject1 then jumped into the water to try to do something but he could not see anything or Subject2 anywhere.  The crate/box that the line was also eventually went overboard.  Subject1 states incident happened approximately at 1700hrs.  He states the boat may not have been registered but is not sure.  He also states there were no other boats in the area at the time of the incident.

 Information was gathered by Hawaii Island Fire Department


BARDID: HI-2023-0005
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2023-02-19 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:10:00
State: HI
NameOfBodyOfWater: Waters of Maui
NearestCityTown: Kihei
County: Maui
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Natural phenomena
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
According to DLNRs Division of Conservation and Resource Enforcement Investigation report:
OPERATOR, at approximately 0930 hours, he and his friend were paddle boarding on an inflatable  SUP, about three-quarter (0.75) to one (1) mile offshore to see whales. OPERATOR related that at about 1115 hours, a twelve (12) to fifteen (15) foot Tiger Shark approached them and began circling them. OPERATOR related that he used his paddle to nudge the shark on the nose to redirect the shark away from them. OPERATOR related that the shark quickly returned. OPERATOR related that when he tried to nudge the  shark for the second time, the shark bit the paddle and bit off the paddle's blade. OPERATOR related  that the shark briefly disengaged but returned for a third time and bit the tail end of the paddle board. OPERATOR related he continued to poke the shark with the paddle, which made the shark disengage and swim away. OPERATOR related the paddle board began deflating slowly, which they then began to hand-paddle back to shore. OPERATOR related that at about 1200 hours, they reached the shoreline fronting Lipoa Street 


BARDID: HI-2023-0006
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2023-02-20 00:00:00
State: HI
NameOfBodyOfWater: Honolua Bay
County: Maui
WaterConditions: Unknown
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Unknown
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Improper anchoring
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent3: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
The Nakoa, a 94-foot, 120-ton luxury yacht first ran aground on President's Day at Honolua Bay. The yacht got stuck just outside of the Honolua-Mokule'ia Marine Life Conservation District on the northwestern coast of Maui after slipping loose from its mooring.  For about two weeks, the Nakoa remained stuck in extremely shallow water in high waves, which officials said exacerbated the damage. On Sunday, it was finally pulled free by a tractor tug after a third attempt, but then took on water and was scuttled at sea. It sunk about 800 feet deep in the channel between Molokai and Maui.


BARDID: HI-2023-0008
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-03-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:00:00
State: HI
NameOfBodyOfWater: North Shore
NearestCityTown: Kailua
County: Honolulu
WaterConditions: Unknown
HazardousWaters: Y
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Unknown
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
RedactedNarrative:
According to a news media report, a person became injured after capsizing off Mokulua Islands.  The person reportedly was not wearing a life jacket and ingested seawater.  She was reportedly exhausted and in severe condition. 


BARDID: HI-2023-0009
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2023-04-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:30:00
State: HI
NameOfBodyOfWater: Keehi Lagoon
NearestCityTown: Honolulu
County: Honolulu
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
RedactedNarrative:
Tuesday, April 18, 2023 12:14 PM, a vessel went aground in the Kalihi/Sand Island channel. 2 persons were rescued.  The SV came from La Mariana.  

Operator did not realize the vessel was outside the green #7 channel marker until too late.  The vessel ran aground and could not back off.


BARDID: HI-2023-0010
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2023-06-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:00:00
State: HI
NameOfBodyOfWater: Keehi
NearestCityTown: Honolulu
County: Honolulu
WaterConditions: Unknown
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Unknown
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
RedactedNarrative:
LOCATION: Vessel is grounded close to DOT reef runway, behind smaller islands. 

DATE AND TIME OF INCIDENT: Friday, June 6, 2023 late afternoon.  

HA OR DOCUMENT NUMBER:  the HA or Doc Number is a key piece of data.  552010 “HOKULEA” 

LENGTH OVER ALL:  47’ auxiliary powered SV 


NARRATIVE OF THE EVENT:   Vessel was on its way to Ke’ehi Marine Center for dry dock on Friday 6/2/23 but ended up on reef on his way there. 


ANYTHING ELSE NOTEWORTHY: Received phone call from a boater reporting the vessel was grounded over 3 days ago. He assisted owner in contacting USCG since (owner) is in his 80’s and seemed to appear “lost” & may have dementia.  I was unable to contact owner via telephone. Called to get information on grounding. vessel was due for dry dock on Friday but never made it. Vessel scheduled to be recovered and towed later this afternoon. 1 person was on board (owner) with no known injuries.


BARDID: HI-2023-0011
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-06-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:30:00
State: HI
NameOfBodyOfWater: Iroquois Lagoon
NearestCityTown: Ewa Beach
County: Honolulu
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Unseen water hazard
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
RedactedNarrative:
Operator account: Driving boat towards lagoon exit towards channel in about 10 feet of water per depth finder when unknown object not visible from the surface struck the outdrive and broke it.  Out drive sustained severe damage and rendered inoperable.  No damage to other property.


BARDID: HI-2023-0012
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2023-06-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 23:00:00
State: HI
NameOfBodyOfWater: WESTERN SHORE HI ISL
NearestCityTown: KAILUA-KONA
County: HAWAII
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: Y
HazardousWaters: Y
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Poor
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
AccidentCause3: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
RedactedNarrative:
070123-We were notified late last night of a 32’ sv that went aground a little past the Kaulana boat ramp on the Hawaii island outside of Green Sands Beach. The vessel owner was airlifted from the vessel and taken to Kona Hospital. Vessel information: Doc # 971417 “Tenacious 3”  There is 60 gallons of fuel on board. It appears there is 35 gallons split between two internal tanks and 25 gallons in 5 cans. The fuel tank integrity is unknown.  Currently the vessel in the rocks but the condition of it is unknown. According to my call with DOCARE this morning, this is a very remote area and they will try to get some eyes on it to take some photos. 

I was able to speak to the owner’s daughter as the owner lost his phone in the water during the rescue. She informed me that he does have some sort of liability insurance but she needs to double check to find out what he has and we are going to talk later today when she gets home. The owner is still in the hospital and is being released this morning and he’s working on obtaining a new cell phone. I’m also going to contact the USCG to see if they will remove the fuel from the vessel. I will update everyone once I have more information. This one will very difficult to remove according to DOCARE as there is very limited access to the location. 

The boat was equipped with a GPS repeater and a brother was receiving updates. They are going to go back through the boat log and determine the last position before the boat grounded along with a write up of the actual grounding. I will forward the next string of information that I receive. We’ve been told that the owner has Progressive insurance that covers salvage.  Please follow up with him and/or the insurance company to see what their next steps are.  We also need to obtain the accident report as well.  USCG has the vessel located at 19 00.178N 155 35.222W which puts it about 6 miles north of Green sand beach.  


OWNER OPERATOR ACCOUNT

On the morning of Friday, June 30, 2023, I contacted the U.S. Coast Guard.  I told them after 3100 sail miles and 9 weeks at sea, I was unable to mentally or physically control my damaged sailboat and was requesting help & assistance.  

My sailboat Tenacious III, a 32 foot west sail cutter rig, had been damaged in an earlier storm & the front sail was torn beyond repair, the stay sail had three rips in the sail and the monitor wind vane self steering was broken; which had caused me to have gone the previous 3-1/2 days without sleep in order to control the boat. 

I, at the time, was unable to engage my auxiliary beta marine deisel (sic) engine.  It was stuck in neutral. 

The Coast Guard tried to get someone to help but to no avail.  They told me they would be unable to come get me until that night or early the next morning.  I “love to” and worked on my engine & was able to get it un-stuck.  I motored a safe distance away from shore and gave the Coast Guard my new GPS coordinates.  

I asked for them to send me someone who could motor my boat to a safe harbor & they refused the request.

The Coast Guard helicopter showed up at dark & attempted to send a diver to help get me off the boat.  The winds had picked up & the waves got larger.  I was pushed much closer to shore.  They took the diver back out of the water, due to the danger, and landed on the shore & had their spotlight on my boat.

At this time my boat became grounded & the waves battered the boat toward shore.  I realized it was too dangerous for the Coast Guard to assist so I made an attempt to leave the boat.

After a large wave turned my boat on its side, I crawled out to some boulders on the shoreline of the Volcano Ntl. Park & was able to get to safety.  The Coast Guard then transported me around 11pm, to Kona Community Hospital.


BARDID: HI-2023-0013
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2023-04-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 07:43:00
State: HI
NameOfBodyOfWater: KANEOHE BAY
NearestCityTown: KANEOHE
County: HONOLULU
WaterConditions: Unknown
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Unknown
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Improper anchoring
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel was believed to be at anchor but broke free and went aground.

LOCATION: I Kualoa Regional Park, Kaneohe Bay (Heeia Kea), Oahu, Hawaii (USCG Doc. No. 1038116, Vessel Name: TOPAZ, fiberglass sailing vessel approximately 36’ ran aground on the reef in the Kualoa Regional Park, Kaneohe Bay, Oahu, Hawaii ocean waters to near Chinaman’s Hat, Oahu, Hawaii.  

DATE AND TIME OF INCIDENT: based on the best recon or info you have from all sources.  April 3, 2023 (Monday) at approximately 6:47am 

NAME OF VESSEL IF THERE IS ONE: TOPAZ (Hailing Port: Kawaihae, Hawaii) 

NARRATIVE OF THE EVENT:  a few lines of explanation as to what happened.   The approximately 36’ fiberglass sailing vessel, TOPAZ, went aground in the ocean waters off Kualoa Regional Park, Kaneohe Bay (Heeia Kea), Oahu, Hawaii (closest to Chinaman’s Hat island), and went aground on the reef. 

AGENCIES THAT RESPONDED: Police, Fire, Ocean Safety, DOCARE, USCG, salvage company called in by owner/insurance.  This entry may lead us to other sources of info.  USCG, DOBOR, DOCARE, DAR and DOH (HEER). Owner reported to the USCG at approximately 6:47am on Monday, 04/03/2023. USCG notified DOBOR of the incident at approximately 7:43am on Monday, 04/03/2023. DOBOR notified DOCARE, DAR and DOH (HEER) via email with all agencies to monitor the grounded vessel. While the State was listed on the insurance policy, Geico insurance did not recognize or have any record of any additional insured party therefore would not share any information.   There is a Geico Insurance Claim. Geico Insurance contracted Parker Marine to conduct the removal and salvage. Parker Marine has been on site since Tuesday, 04/04/2023 (daily).  Vessel is partially removed as well as large debris from the grounding site as well as nearby shoreline. Vessel removal is still ongoing due to weather in the area. 

ANYTHING ELSE NOTEWORTHY:  Complaint of debris and sunken vessel from City and County - Kualoa Regional Park and Kualoa Ranch staff, as well as neighboring homes and posts from social media (Instagram – @MyKailua). Vessel is broken up into pieces. Vessel was grounded on the reef.  Coordinates unknown.  Damage caused, unknown. Owner has not been in contact with DOBOR.  I left a message on his phone (which was sunk and in the vessel).  Reports indicate he lost everything during the grounding/sinking.  Boater is approximately 76 years old.  


BARDID: HI-2023-0014
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-09-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:55:00
State: HI
NameOfBodyOfWater: Kohanaiki and Kaloko Pond
NearestCityTown: Kailua-Kona
County: HAWAII
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: Y
HazardousWaters: Y
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
RedactedNarrative:
Operator account: Fishing for menpachi close to shoreline. When it was time to move back to 20 fathoms, we slightly turned right and ended up on the reef.  Waves pushed the boat inward on shore.


BARDID: HI-2023-0016
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-10-06 00:00:00
State: HI
NameOfBodyOfWater: Ala Wai SBH entry chanel
NearestCityTown: Honolulu
County: Honolulu
WaterConditions: Unknown
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Unknown
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Person departed vessel
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
RedactedNarrative:
Details gathered after the fact. Account of Honolulu Police Department Homicide Detail regarding unattended death: while vessel was drifting in the Ala Wai entrance channel, the operator inexplicably dove into the water from the boat. Honolulu Police department officer on patrol asked (through a person who swam out to the drifting vessel) if subject needed help.  He declined.  The patrol officer watched as subject floated in the water adjacent to the vessel and in time started showing signs of distress.  Honolulu Fire Department responded and pulled subject from the water unresponsive.  subject was transported to a hospital where he later died.  Autopsy is pending as of 2/16/24.


BARDID: HI-2023-0017
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-10-05 00:00:00
State: HI
NameOfBodyOfWater: Tavares Beach
NearestCityTown: Paia
County: Maui
WaterConditions: Rough
HazardousWaters: Y
Wind: Light
Visibility: Unknown
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
RedactedNarrative:
According to a CG report and news media, a fatality is suspected after an empty kayak was found approximately 1 NM north of Ho'okipa Beach Park.  The 63-year old victim was allegedly fishing using the 12' hobie kayak with a sail and was supposed to return by evening.  The vessel was found submerged without the victim.  Weather during the search was 10-15 knot winds, 2-4 ft seas and excellent visibility.  The victim was reported to be a good swimmer in fair health.  It was reported the victim did not have a life jacket and was not using drugs or alcohol.  He was experienced in kayaking.


BARDID: IA-2023-0001
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-05-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:00:00
State: IA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Skunk River South
NearestCityTown: Ollie
County: Keokuk
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Machinery failure
AccidentCause3: People on gunwale, bow, or transom
MachineryFailure: Steering
AccidentEvent1: Collision with floating object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Steering rod on motor was broke
Officer contacted 3 individuals at the Keokuk County Health Center who stated they were involved in a boat accident on the Skunk River.  Upon talking to them, he noticed a strong odor of alcohol coming from the
three. Passengers 3, 2, & Operator all had slurred speech, bloodshot eyes and smelled strongly of alcohol.
Operator of V1 stated he was driving the boat downstream at a high rate of speed, when the steering rod on the motor broke and he hit a downed log. Operator stated that when he hit the log, his father, fell down in the boat and struck his head on the side of the boat and injured his ribs. The Operator was charged with BWI.


BARDID: IA-2023-0002
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-05-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:00:00
State: IA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Iowa River
NearestCityTown: Swisher
County: Johnson
WaterConditions: Unknown
StrongCurrent: Y
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Drug
AccidentCause3: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Person departed vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On May 13, 2023, Operator was kayaking on the Iowa River with four friends. At approximately 2:00 PM, Operator left his kayak and attempted to get to shore while holding onto his boat. Operator reached the riverbank but experienced hypothermia and was unable to continue moving and keeping his head above water. Operator was resuscitated by his friends (who were also kayaking) and was transported to Mercy Hospital in Cedar Rapids where he was treated for hypothermia. Operator was under the influence of alcohol and marijuana at the time of the incident.


BARDID: IA-2023-0003
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-05-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:20:00
State: IA
NameOfBodyOfWater: West Okoboji Lake
NearestCityTown: Wahpeton
County: Dickinson
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Person departed vessel
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
RedactedNarrative:
On 05/20/2023 CO was dispatched to the Millers Bay area of West Lake Okoboji regarding an individual who had entered the water from a pontoon (V1) and had not resurfaced.  When CO arrived on scene, CO observed local first responders rushing Victim to the dock with where paramedics were waiting onshore.  CO learned that the that pontoon Victim was on was disabled, so he, CO, and Seasonal Water Patrol Officer (WPO) towed it back to shore and secured it to the dock.

Once on shore, the COs and WPOs began collecting witness statements from the passengers on the pontoon.  Based on witness statements, CO learned that Victim had jumped from the pontoon into the water without a lifejacket on as the operator was slowing down.  

He then began struggling, slipped under the water, and did not resurface.  Passengers on the pontoon attempted to rescue Victim, but were unable to.  A nearby kayaker overheard the rescue attempts and paddled over to the area.  He dove into the water, recovered Victim, and transferred him to the passengers in the pontoon.  The passengers then performed CPR. 

White collecting witness statements, CO was advised by local first responders that Victim was going to be transported by ambulance to Lakes Regional Healthcare in Spirit Lake, IA.  CO was later notified that Victim had deceased while in medical care.


BARDID: IA-2023-0004
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-05-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:00:00
State: IA
NameOfBodyOfWater: West Okoboji Lake
NearestCityTown: Milford
County: Dickinson
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On 05/20/2023 at approximately 6:30 PM conservation Officer (CO) 1 was dispatched to Lake Regional Healthcare (LRH) to take the report of a boating incident resulting in a minor injury.  CO 1 arrived at LRH and spoke with the involved parties, V1 Operator and V2 Operator.  CO 1 learned the incident occurred in the Browns Bay area of West Lake Okoboji about 50 yards from the dock.  V1 Operator was operating a black-colored Seadoo Spark, and was traveling westward toward the dock.  V2 Operator was operating a black and orange-colored Seadoo GTX, with V2 Passenger as a passenger.  The GTX was traveling eastward, away from the dock.  Both operators were approaching one another port side to port side at idling speeds in order to talk.  As the GTX and the Spark were approaching one another, an unidentified boat allegedly sped by, creating a large wake.  The large wake caused the bow of the Spark to ride up onto the port of the GTX.  The overriding maneuver of the Spark onto the GTX resulted in V2 Operator's left pinky finger being pinched between the bow of the Spark and the handlebar of the GTX.  Both operators and the passenger quickly got back to the dock, put the Spark and GTX into hoists, and transported V2 Operator to Lake Regional Healthcare Emergency Room.  V2 Operator explained his left pinky was lacerated and was broken in several places.


BARDID: IA-2023-0005
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2023-05-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:30:00
State: IA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Middle Raccoon River
NearestCityTown: Panora
County: Guthrie
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
Conservation Officer was notified on 5/27/2023 by Lake Panorama Association of a boat that was retrieved from the lake that was mostly submerged.  The boat belongs to Owner and the reason for it was that he forgot to put the drain plug in the boat and it filled with water.


BARDID: IA-2023-0006
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-05-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:02:00
State: IA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Cedar River
NearestCityTown: Cedar Rapids
County: Linn
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentCause3: Excessive speed
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On May 27th 2023, at 1:00pm Operator was operating 2000 red and white Glastron on the Cedar River near Seminole Valley Park. Operator was the only occupant in the vessel. Operator was traveling southwest downstream when he struck a large concrete bridge piling. 
Operator was thrown to the opposite side of the vessel on the port side and left unconscious. The Glastron began driving in circles (commonly referred to as the circle of death) until bystanders were able to stop the vessel. 
Operator’s boat was towed to a nearby island where first responders arrived and transported Operator to University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics by helicopter.

Operator drank a couple Modelo’s and some vodka & stated he was taking shots of vodka, but didn’t start taking shots until they got to the beach. The incident happened after he was at the beach.


BARDID: IA-2023-0007
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-05-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:40:00
State: IA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Saylorville
NearestCityTown: Polk City
County: Polk
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: Y
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: People on gunwale, bow, or transom
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
RedactedNarrative:
A family had rented a pontoon boat from Saylorville Marina and were drifting on Saylorville Lake.  One person was in the back of the pontoon boat and fell off the back of the boat.  Rescue efforts by the family were unsuccessful and subject drowned.


BARDID: IA-2023-0008
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-05-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:40:00
State: IA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Coralville Reservoir
NearestCityTown: Solon
County: Johnson
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: Y
CongestedWaters: Y
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Congested waters
AccidentCause3: Force of wake/wave
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On 5/28/23 two boats were involved in a minor collision on the Coralville Reservoir near an area commonly known as “Bohemie Beach.” Vessel 1, a red Scarab driven by V1 Operator was weaving in and amongst multiple anchored boats to approach the shoreline beach at idle speed. As he was driving his boat, he approached too close to Vessel 2, a maroon Sea Ray, which was anchored with its engine off. The occupants of the Sea Ray attempted to alert V1 Operator to the closeness of their vessels and a passenger on board the Sea Ray attempted to push the Scarab away from their boat. However, when a wave came in, it pushed the port side stern of the Scarab into the port side bow of the Sea Ray. 

When I made contact with the Scarab later that day, V1 Operator and V1 Owner told me that they had been struck by an anchored boat. V1 Operator showed me a few small cracks and a gouge they attributed to the incident. When V1 Operator was asked whether he believed the damage sustained would be over $2000.00, V1 Operator said that he worked in a body shop and he didn’t believe that the damage would exceed $2000 to fix. V1 Owner later called to report an estimate of $8276.00 worth of damage to the Scarab. The estimate was obtained from the same body shop company where V1 Operator worked. 

The Sea Ray sustained scratches and gouges to the hull on the port side bow. 

The collision was seen by an impartial witness who provided a detailed description of the event.


BARDID: IA-2023-0009
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2023-06-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:15:00
State: IA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Coralville Reservoir
NearestCityTown: North Liberty
County: Johnson
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Restricted vision
AccidentCause3: Sharp turn
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On June 3, 2023 at approximately 4:15 PM a 23 foot Four Winns cabin cruiser driven by V1 Operator  collided with a personal watercraft driven by V2 Operator  on the Coralville Reservoir. Prior to the incident, two jet skis, one driven by V2 Operator and the other by Other PWC operator, were making sharp turns and cruising along the east shoreline while V1 Operator was cruising north along the west shoreline. V1 Operator crossed the lake from west to east. A moment before the collision, Other PWC operator turned and drove west, while V2 Operator made a sharp left hand turn. V1 Operator saw the jet ski going west, but did not see V2 Operator’s jet ski until he collided with it. As the collision happened, V1 Operator turned to the left. There were no injuries sustained but there was significant physical damage to the jet ski.


BARDID: IA-2023-0010
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-06-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
State: IA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Clear Lake
NearestCityTown: Ventura
County: Cerro Gordo
WaterConditions: Unknown
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Failure to vent
AccidentCause2: Ignition of spilled fuel or vapor
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
RedactedNarrative:
On Thursday, June 8th 2023, at approximately 5:00PM the Clear Lake Fire Department was dispatched to a boat fire near the Ventura Boat Ramp on Clear Lake.  There were three people onboard the boat when the fire occurred.  The fire resulted in personal injury to the occupants as well as damage to the boat.  The Iowa DNR was contacted the following day to investigate the incident.  
After investigation by the Iowa DNR, it was determined that the fire was a result of a failure to properly ventilate the bilges of the engine and fuel tank compartments.


BARDID: IA-2023-0011
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-06-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:14:00
State: IA
NameOfBodyOfWater: East Okoboji
NearestCityTown: Okoboji
County: Dickinson
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Sudden medical condition
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
RedactedNarrative:
On 06/09/2023 Conservation Officer (CO) 1 was dispatched to a boating incident on East Lake Okoboji, near the Hwy 71 Bridge, located in Dickinson County, Iowa.  CO 1 was advised that a male individual (later identified as Operator) was face down in the water.  CO 1 arrived on scene shortly after receiving the call and observed several Seasonal Water Patrol Officers (WPOs) transporting Operator to shore where locals first responders were waiting.  Operator was transported to Lakes Regional Healthcare in Spirit Lake, Iowa for medical evaluation.  CO 1 learned Operator had likely suffered from a seizure and fell off the jetski he had been operating.  Operator was wearing a lifejacket and was using an emergency cut-off switch lanyard.


BARDID: IA-2023-0012
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-06-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:17:00
State: IA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Blackhawk Lake
NearestCityTown: Lake View
County: Sac
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
RedactedNarrative:
A collision between a personal watercraft (PWC) and a pontoon Sunday afternoon at Black Hawk Lake sent two teenagers to the hospital.
The pontoon, operated by V1 Operator, was traveling an estimated 15 miles per hour (MPH), pulling three grandkids on a tube and was in the process of making a sweeping left turn when V1 Operator saw the PWC coming from his left. He corrected to the right to try to avoid the collision.
The PWC was heading east across the lake at approximately 40 MPH when the operator, V2 Operator saw the pontoon, and let off the throttle. A PWC is jet-driven meaning when it’s throttled down, the steering doesn’t work.
The PWC collided with the front port side pontoon and V2 Operator and V2 passenger were ejected, hitting the pontoon and metal skirting. They were helped aboard the pontoon by the tubers then taken to shore for medical assistance. The incident occurred around 3:17 p.m., in the center of the lake, on the north side.
V2 Operator and V2 passenger were transported by ambulance to Loring Hospital in Sac City. V2 Operator was then sent on to Omaha for surgery to repair a lower leg fracture.
Boat traffic was light for a Sunday likely due to cool air temperatures and wind and wave action, said State Conservation Officer 1.
The dredge was operating in the east bay and not involved in the incident.
The incident remains under investigation.


BARDID: IA-2023-0013
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-06-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 23:00:00
State: IA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Silver Lake
NearestCityTown: Ayrshire
County: Palo Alto
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
AccidentCause3: Excessive speed
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
RedactedNarrative:
On 6/30/2023 at approximately 12:20am. Conservation officer 1 was notified by Palo Alto Dispatch of a boat incident with injury at Silver Lake from Palo Alto county dispatch.  Officer 1 called me Conservation Officer 2 to inform me of the incident.  I was unable to respond to the call so Officer 1's went to Silver Lake.  He also notified Officer 3 of the incident.  
The operator of the boat, Operator, was the injured person in the boat and was being transported to Spence hospital by his mother.  Officer 3 went to the Spencer hospital to gather information.  Officer 1 took photos of the boat and gathered information at the boat ramp at Silver Lake where the boat was towed to after it stopped turning in circles, by an individual.
The boat was being operated by the owner in the  middle of Silver Lake. Operator told Officer 2 that he was driving at approximately 30mph when he turned sharply to the left and hit a wave, he was then ejected from the boat to the right.  The boat was still at full throttle and turning in a circle.  The boat ran Operator over and the prop struck Operator's left forearm almost chopping it completely off.  Operator was able to swim to shore a few houses from his parents lake house.  Operator found a towel and wrapped his arm up and then knocked on the door for help.  Operator was transported to Spencer Hospital by his mother and was then life flighted to Sioux Falls Hospital, Operator's arm was amputated just below the left elbow.
Deputy from the Palo Alto sheriff's office obtained a search warrant for a blood draw on Operator as there was evidence in the boat he had been drinking eer from the empty beer cans.  Officer 3 was at the Spencer hospital waiting for the warrant to go through but the helicopter landed and took Operator to the Sioux Falls Hospital before Officer 3 was able to get the blood drawn.
When Officer 2 interviewed Operator, he admitted he had been drinking and operating the boat at approximately 30 mph making turns and driving the boat like a Waverunner.  I believe the alcohol consumption, driving at a high rate of speed at night and hitting a wave are the cause of this incident.


BARDID: IA-2023-0014
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:35:00
State: IA
NameOfBodyOfWater: East Okoboji
NearestCityTown: Okoboji
County: Dickinson
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: Y
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Congested waters
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On July 1st, 2023 at approximately 2040 hours, two individuals on a personal water craft were operating on East Lake Okoboji. The occupants were ejected from the pwc after a collision with a large wave. This incident is under investigation. Both individuals were wearing a life jacket.


BARDID: IA-2023-0015
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2023-07-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
State: IA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Rathbun Reservoir
NearestCityTown: Moravia
County: Appanoose
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Ignition of spilled fuel or vapor
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
RedactedNarrative:
A white in color 2003 Chaparall run-a-bout with I/O engine exploded during start up. One adult female received moderate to severe burns and was evacuated via helicopter to UI Hospital. Adult Male operator and three juveniles were taken to Mercy One in Centerville via ambulance for observation of minor burn related wounds. Three youth were wearing life jackets and alcohol was not involved.


BARDID: IA-2023-0016
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:53:00
State: IA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Missouri River
NearestCityTown: Modale
County: Harrison
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: Y
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
AccidentCause2: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Unseen water hazard
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
RedactedNarrative:
On July 3, 2023 at 8:53pm a 2003 Chaparral Sunesta 263 vessel attempted to enter a backwater area on the Missouri River near Sandy Point at mile marker 657. The vessel was occupied by 8 occupants. Upon entering a chute near Sandy Point an underwater object was struck causing a hole in the vessel's hull. The vessel motored over to the shore where it was beached. All occupants were safely picked up by a nearby boater. Conservation Officers 1, 2 and 3 investigated this incident after arriving on scene shortly after the incident. No alcohol was involved.


BARDID: IA-2023-0017
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:30:00
State: IA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Saylorville
NearestCityTown: Polk City
County: Polk
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
RedactedNarrative:
At approximately 3:45 p.m. i was notified of an over turned jet ski at the oak grove park beach by the army corp of engineers. When i arrived on scene i talked to operator, the owner of the jet ski. Operator stated that he was riding his get ski and when he went to turn the jet ski over turned and began to take on water. The engine compartment took on a large amount of water and operator was worried that the water had ruined his motor.

While at the oak grove parking lot we filled out the necessary paperwork and operator bailed water out from the jet ski and got it floating enough to tow back to the cherry glen boat ramp. I told operator that i would meet him at the ramp and take pictures there.

At the cherry glen boat ramp operator was observed pulling his jet ski to the ramp and it appeared to be taking on water and listing to one side. Once on the trailer a large amount of water was flowing from the vessel. Pictures were taken of the vessel and the engine vin.


BARDID: IA-2023-0018
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:30:00
State: IA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Saylorville
NearestCityTown: Polk City
County: Polk
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
RedactedNarrative:
At approximately 5:30 p.m while sitting at the cherry glen boat ramp, i noticed a jet ski being towed in by a pontoon to the beach. Subject came to the truck to report that he had Overturned his jet ski and that it had taken on a large amount of water and that he was worried it may Have ruined his engine. He was instructed to trailer his vessel and that we would fill out the Paperwork in the parking lot while the vessel drained.

He stated that he was operating the vessel over by the oak grove park and was going fast and when he maneuvered the vessel overturned and took on water. He was then towed by another vessel to the Beach at cherry glen boat ramp, where i saw him get dropped off.

While in the parking lot we took pictures of the vessel and looked for the engine vin #, the engine vin # Sticker was no longer there. It appeared that it had been worn off by water.


BARDID: IA-2023-0019
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:30:00
State: IA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Clear Lake
NearestCityTown: Clear Lake
County: Cerro Gordo
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Overloading
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Falls overboard
RedactedNarrative:
On July 8th 2023, a pontoon capsized on Clear Lake resulting in minor injuries to the operator.  The fourteen other passengers on board did not sustain injuries.  The Iowa DNR , Cerro Gordo County Sherriff's office, Clear Lake Fire and EMS, as well as civilians on scene assisted in the incident. No alcohol was involved.


BARDID: IA-2023-0020
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:30:00
State: IA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Mississippi River
NearestCityTown: Dubuque
County: Dubuque
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
AccidentCause2: Hull failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (non-fuel)
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent3: Sinking
RedactedNarrative:
On July 9th 2023 at approximately 12:30 PM Operator was operating his 1977 Mantaray Jet Boat on the Mississippi River Pool 12 near Nine Mile Island when he heard an explosion, and the boat immediately began filling with water.  Operator had his passenger put on a life jacket and they both jumped off the boat as it sank to the bottom of the main channel of the river.  A boat nearby came to their aide and rescued Operator and passenger from the water unharmed.  

Operator hired a diver to recover the boat and it was removed from the bottom of the river.  

Upon removal of the boat from the water Officer inspected the boat and observed the fitting connecting the jet drive to the water intake had exploded.  This created a free flow of water through an approximately 6 inch hole into the boat from directly under the motor which is the heaviest part of the boat.  The boat has no floatation of any kind built in.


BARDID: IA-2023-0021
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:10:00
State: IA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Mississippi River
NearestCityTown: Buffalo
County: Scott
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: People on gunwale, bow, or transom
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
RedactedNarrative:
On July 14, 2023, at approximately 6:30 PM, Iowa Department of Natural Resources conservation officers were dispatched to the Mississippi River near Buffalo Shores for a possible drowning incident involving a person who fell out of a boat. 

According to the boat operator, he and his friend were boating from the Buffalo Shores Campground to the shoreline near Beach Pub Bar in Buffalo where they intended to register for a fishing tournament. As they approached shore, Occupant was preparing the anchor line in the bow of the boat when he lost his balance and fell overboard. Occupant’s body was located and recovered at 8:15 PM by the Iowa DNR and the Buffalo Fire Department. The Buffalo Police Department, Scott County Sherriff’s Office, Scott County Park Ranger’s, Muscatine Fire Department and Montpelier Fire Department were also dispatched and assisted in the recovery. Neither person was wearing a life jacket & alcohol was involved.


BARDID: IA-2023-0022
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-06-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:00:00
State: IA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Saylorville Lake
NearestCityTown: Polk City
County: Polk
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
RedactedNarrative:
ON JULY 8, 2023 I WAS NOTIFIED OF A PROPERTY DAMAGE BOAT ACCIDENT ON SAYLORVILLE LAKE. THE ACCIDENT TOOK
PLACE ON JUNE 30, 2023 ON SAYLORVILLE LAKE, NEAR SANDPIPER. THE INCIDENT WAS A GROUNDING OF A RENTAL
PONTOON, THAT CAUSED APPROXIMATELY $3500 IN DAMAGE. THE VESSEL WAS RENTED FROM THE SAYLORVILLE MARINA
THE OPERATOR OF THE VESSEL WAS OPERATOR. OPERATOR STATED THAT HE HEADED TOWARDS SHORE, THEN THE VESSEL STOPPED MOVING LIKE IT NORMALLY HAD.
THE MARINA WAS CALLED AND THE BOAT WAS TOWED BACK.


BARDID: IA-2023-0023
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2023-07-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:45:00
State: IA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Cedar River - Ellis Park
NearestCityTown: Cedar Rapids
County: Linn
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Failure to vent
AccidentCause2: Ignition of spilled fuel or vapor
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (non-fuel)
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Operator was attempting to start a Kawasaki Jet Ski that was tied up to a dock in the harbor with a can of ether. The jet ski exploded sending Operator into the air and landed back down on the jet ski.  The Cedar Rapids Fire Department was on scene quickly as they were training with COs 1 and 2 on the river.  

By the time I arrived on scene Operator had already been transported to St Luke’s Hospital in Cedar Rapids.  I met officers 1 and 2 and Darrah’s Towing at the dock.  Darrah’s lifted the jet ski on to a roll back wrecker and transported the jet ski to their facility in Hiawatha.  The jet ski had the top portion blown apart from the explosion.  

I met with Operator and his wife on August 9th to discuss what had happened.  Operator did not remember anything after the explosion.  He remembered spraying the ether in the machine to try and get it started and that was about all he could recollect.  He was going to take the jet ski back to the owner as Operator had been interested in buying it.


BARDID: IA-2023-0024
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:45:00
State: IA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Coralville Reservoir
NearestCityTown: Solon
County: Johnson
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Drug
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
RedactedNarrative:
On 7/21/23 at approximately 3:30 PM operator rented a canoe from the concession at Lake Macbride State Park. Two people departed from the concession in the canoe. They paddled until approximately 3:45 PM onto the north arm of the lake when the canoe capsized and both occupants fell out of the canoe.  Neither occupant was wearing a PFD and both occupants drowned.  Both victims were not wearing life jackets and were under drug use.


BARDID: IA-2023-0025
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:07:00
State: IA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Little River
NearestCityTown: Leon
County: Decatur
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Unknown
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Other
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
OtherAccidentCause: Passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
RedactedNarrative:
On July 23, 2023, a boat was being driven while towing 1 tube with 3 tubers on it at Little River near Leon, IA.  At approximately 1405, a tuber fell off the tube and sustained a concussion from hitting the water.  Emergency personnel were dispatched to the Little River Lake.  The victim was taken to Decatur County Memorial Hospital where the victim was treated for a concussion and released the same day.  Three subjects on the tube were wearing a life jacket.  No alcohol was involved.


BARDID: IA-2023-0026
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:50:00
State: IA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Rathbun Lake
NearestCityTown: Moravia
County: Appanoose
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: People on gunwale, bow, or transom
AccidentEvent1: Person departed vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
RedactedNarrative:
On 07-28-2023, shortly before 1551hrs, on Lake Rathbun upstream from the Bridgeview Boat Ramp, subject entered the water from the front of a LOWE Pontoon boat while it was in operation.  Victim was struck by the propeller of the pontoon boat’s motor.  Occupants from the boat attempted to recover Victim from the water but were unable to do so.  Numerous agencies including:  Iowa DNR, Iowa State Patrol, Appanoose County Sheriff, Centerville Fire and Rescue, US Army Corps of Engineers, Chariton Fire Department Dive Team, and ADLM Emergency Management responded and assisted with the search, rescue, and recovery efforts.  At about 2052hrs on 07-28-23, Victim was recovered in about 14 feet of water by Chariton Fire Department Divers.  Alcohol was a factor, and deceased was not wearing a life jacket.  Deceased had a .123 BAC.


BARDID: IA-2023-0027
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-08-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:00:00
State: IA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Rathbun Lake
NearestCityTown: Moravia
County: Appanoose
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Unknown
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Sharp turn
AccidentCause2: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
RedactedNarrative:
The vessel was being operated by Operator, who is the victim’s father.  Passenger 2 was the observer in the vessel sitting next to the operator. Injured and Passenger 1 were tubing behind the vessel. The vessel did two turns with the tube in tow just north of Buck Creek Marina.  The passengers on the tube made contact and were ejected from the tube. Injured showed signs of pain in his right leg area.  Both individuals were placed in the vessel and driven to the north dock at Buck Creek Marina. Operator called 911 on the way to the north Buck Creek boat ramp dock.

The following morning August 6th 2023, Officer 1 and Officer 2 made contact with the victim, and the victims family.  A completed operators’ report was obtained and it was found that Injured had a dislocated hip, and was treated and supposed to make a full recovery. Both subjects were wearing life jackets & alcohol was not involved.


BARDID: IA-2023-0028
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-08-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
State: IA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Mississippi River
NearestCityTown: McGregor
County: Clayton
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: Y
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Unseen water hazard
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
On August 9th, 2023 Conservation Officer 2 looked at an email sent by CO 1 on August 6th.  CO 2 was made aware of a vessel incident that occurred around 5:00 p.m. on August 6th south of McGregor on the Mississippi River. The information stated in the email stated that a vessel made contact with a wing dam near the mouth of the Wisconsin River near mile marker 631.  A blue and white 1995 Sea Ray Sundancer was being operated by Operator.  Operator who also owns the vessel was recreational boating with a single passenger. The vessel was outside the main channel and struck a wing dam causing damage to motor outboard motor area and transom. The vessel began to take on water due to damage and breach of hull near transom.  McGregor Fire Department was able to locate the vessel and it’s two uninjured passengers and bring them to shore in McGregor.  CO 1 states when he made contact with Operator and passenger at the McGregor docks ,he did not smell an odor of an alcoholic beverage on either individuals.  On August 9th CO 2 reached out to Operator on phone to set up a time to get a operator’s report completed.  On August 12th  around 10:30 a.m. ,CO 2 travelled to meet Operator at his residence.  The operator’s report was completed and Operator stated to CO 2 that the vessel involved was parked at the Big Buoy Marina in McGregor as they had recovered the partially submerged vessel had parked it at their lot near docks. Operator stated to CO 2 that if pictures were need to that it would be at marina parking lot.  On the afternoon of  August 12th CO 2 took pictures of the vessel and it’s damaged areas. Operator stated to CO 2 while operating the vessel he was not aware of that he was outside on main channel in shallow water just before it struck the wing dam.  At the time of the incident the water levels on the Mississippi River were very low outside of the main channel especially for the 29 foot Sea Ray.  The damage amount is unknown but Operator stated to CO 2 that it would likely be a total loss due to structural damage and interior vessel damage due to being partially submerged.


BARDID: IA-2023-0029
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-08-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:15:00
State: IA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Clear Lake
NearestCityTown: Clear Lake
County: Cerro Gordo
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentCause3: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
RedactedNarrative:
On 8/17/2023 at approximately 1844 hours, Conservation Officer (CO) 1 was advised by State Radio Dispatch and the Clear Lake Police Department of an accident involving a personal watercraft at the dock at Clear Lake Iowa. CO 1 responded to the call, contacted the Cerro Gordo Sheriff Office Deputy on scene and travelled to the area, arriving at approximately 1920 hours. 

Upon arrival, CO 1 was advised by a Cerro Gordo County Deputy that the operator of the personal watercraft was at the residence. The deputy further advised CO 1 that the deputy had performed SFSTs on the operator, the operator had consented to a PBT and that the PBT had indicated a BAC of .090. 

CO 1 contacted the operator of the personal watercraft and identified the operator as Operator. CO 1 offered medical services to Operator. Operator denied medical services. Operator advised CO 1 that she had been operating the personal watercraft at approximately 1600 and had struck the dock located at Clear Lake. Operator further advised CO 1 that approximately 50 minutes before the accident she had been operating the personal watercraft with a second passenger onboard. Operator further advised CO 1 that an argument had transpired between her and her passenger an and he passenger has jumped off of the personal watercraft. Operator further advised CO 1 that Operator was then unable to find her previous passenger and began searching for the passenger. Operator further advised CO 1 that she became distraught, was unable to locate her passenger and was unfamiliar with the area and Clear Lake in general. Operator further advised CO 1 that she was in somewhat of a panic and drove the personal watercraft toward the shore and struck the dock.

CO 1 then identified the owner of the personal watercraft, Owner, who was also at the scene. Owner advised CO 1 that he had been in the company of Operator earlier in the day in a boat but was not at the scene at the time of the accident. 

CO 1 took photos of the damaged dock and personal watercraft. CO 1 explained the vessel incident reporting process to Operator and assisted Operator with completing the Vessel Operators Report. 

CO 1 left the scene at approximately 2100. 

On 8/18/2023, CO 1 contacted Operator regarding the Vessel Operators Report. Operator advised CO 1 that the report would be completed within 24 hours. Operator further advised CO 1 that Operator had admitted herself to Mercy Medical Hospital in Mason City later in the evening of 8/17/2023. Operator advised that she had been diagnosed with a concussion and released.
Alcholol was involved.


BARDID: IA-2023-0030
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-08-19 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:30:00
State: IA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Mississippi River
NearestCityTown: Lansing
County: Allamakee
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Unseen water hazard
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
RedactedNarrative:
On August 18, 2023 at approximately 12:30 pm Sgt. Conservation Officer 1 received a message from Cedar Falls State Radio Dispatch to contact Operator in regards to a boat incident that took place in Allamakee CO on the Mississippi River. CO 1 made contact with Operator that stated he was on the Mississippi River for a bass angling tournament traveling north up a slough when he struck a completely submerged object. As he struck the object to completed removed his Mercury 225 HP motor from the boat and sunk. The incident occurred just 1 mile northeast of Lansing, Iowa. Operator was able to use his trolling motor to get his boat back to the ramp. Operator advised he had a passenger with him at the time of the incident. Operator advised neither him or his passenger were injured. 

Operator was able to show the location of the incident on a map sent to CO 1 in which indicated it occurred in Iowa waters of the Mississippi River. 

Operator loaded his boat onto the trailer and parked his boat at the Upper Iowa Marine near Decorah, Iowa. CO 1 advised Operator he would be up the next day to look at the boat, document the damages, and complete the incident report. 

On August, 19, 2023, CO 1 met Operator at Upper Iowa Marine. CO 1 documented the damage and took pictures. Operator filled out the “Vessel Occurrence Operator’s Report Form”. CO 1 observed the Legend Bass boat. The cracked mount for the Mercury motor was all that was left attached to the jack plate of the boat with severed wires. CO 1 was able to located the Mercury factory sticker including the serial #. CO 1 documented a large gouge in the fiberglass on the port stern side caused by the motor, a gouge under the boat in the fiberglass which appeared to be from the object he struck, more than likely a submerged log, small chips of fiberglass damage near the drain plug, a cracked and bent jack plate, as well as a damage Lowrance transducer. Both individuals were wearing life jackets & alcohol was not a factor.

With current lower than normal river levels, boat operators have struck submerged objects in the water in areas boats have operated in the past without any issues. With CO 1’s experience, no fault will be placed on the operator of the vessel.


BARDID: IA-2023-0031
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-08-19 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
State: IA
NameOfBodyOfWater: East Lake Okoboji
NearestCityTown: Spirit Lake
County: Dickinson
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause3: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On 08/19/2023 at or about 5:00 PM V1 was tied off (on its port side) at the Highway 9 boat ramp on East Lake Okoboji.  The owner of V1 was preparing to be load the vessel.  V2 returned to the boat ramp and was approaching the courtesy dock opposite of V1.  Wake from a passing boat pushed V2 closer to V1 between to two courtesy docks.  The operator of V2 was unable to put the vessel in reverse in time to avoid a collision.  V2's bow struck the starboard side of V1.  As a result, V1 sustained a punctured and dented aluminum panel while V2 sustained minor scratches to its keel near to bow eye.


BARDID: IA-2023-0033
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-08-31 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:27:00
State: IA
NameOfBodyOfWater: West Lake Okoboji
NearestCityTown: Whapeton
County: Dickinson
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: Y
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
RedactedNarrative:
On Aug 31, 2023 five people were on board a single vessel. The operator began striking rocks off of a point on West Lake Okoboji. The vessel came to rest on a large rock. No injuries were reported. This incident is under investigation by the Iowa DNR.


BARDID: IA-2023-0034
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-09-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:35:00
State: IA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Red Rock
NearestCityTown: Pella
County: Marion
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
AccidentCause3: Sharp turn
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On 9-2-23 at approximately 2:39pm i conservation officer 1 was dispatched to a boating incident with persons located near cordova boat ramp on lake red rock. At approximately 2:43pm i arrived at cordova boat ramp by boat and observed a female laying on the back on a grounded lily pad with persons trying to comfort her, two boats on their trailer and several persons walking around. I made contact with operator. He stated that he was operating his vessel that was towing the tube that struck injured. Operator stated that he was coming into the floating lily pad approximately 100 yards offshore at approximately 5 to 10 mph to exchange riders on the tube when he made a sharp turn with his boat in turn swinging the tube into and striking injured which was seated on the lily pad.


BARDID: IA-2023-0035
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2023-09-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:35:00
State: IA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Cornelia
NearestCityTown: Clarion
County: Wright
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
A 2001 Crestliner 1850, operated by V1 Operator, was pulling a tube with occupants on it when it struck a 2007 Four Winns boat while at anchor, owned by V2 Owner. The Four Winns boat sustained scrape and scuff damage, along with rub rail damage, to the port side, while the Crestliner sustained a considerable amount of damage to the forward half of the hull on the portside. No injuries were reported.  V1 Operator was cited for Careless/Reckless operation of a watercraft and a speed and distance violation.


BARDID: IA-2023-0036
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2023-09-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:30:00
State: IA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Mississippi River
NearestCityTown: Montrose
County: Lee
WaterConditions: Unknown
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Failure to vent
AccidentCause2: Ignition of spilled fuel or vapor
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent3: Sinking
RedactedNarrative:
A vessel caught fire on Mississippi River Pool 19 on September 2nd, 2023 in Lee County Iowa. This was due to the buildup of fumes within the engine compartment on the vessel. The operator and passenger of the vessel attempted to extinguish the fire but were unsuccessful. Emergency services were contacted and also attempted to put the fire out. The vessel ultimately burned for a period of time until it sank. This incident did not result in any physical injuries to anyone onboard.


BARDID: IA-2023-0037
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-10-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:20:00
State: IA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Clear Lake
NearestCityTown: Clear Lake
County: Cerro Gordo
WaterConditions: Rough
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Restricted vision
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On Tuesday October 17, 2023 at approximately 1420 a dock service barge was transporting hoists to the takeout location on the south shore of Clear Lake.  As the service boat came around Dodges Point the operators vision was obstructed by the spray coming off the front deck and he struck the front port side of a fishing boat that was anchored.  The impact caused damage to the vessel and both occupants were uninjured.


BARDID: IA-2023-0038
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-11-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:40:00
State: IA
NameOfBodyOfWater: Old Quarry Pit (Lloyd's pit)
NearestCityTown: Gifford
County: Hardin
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: People on gunwale, bow, or transom
AccidentCause2: Alcohol
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
CoordinatesConfidence: C
RedactedNarrative:
Two individuals were on a boat on the water when one man stood up to pee off the side on the water when he fell, causing the boat to capsize, and leaving both men in the water.  The other occupant in the boat swam to shore and the victim never made it out of the water. Neither of the subjects were wearing life jackets.


BARDID: ID-2023-0001
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2023-03-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:30:00
State: ID
NameOfBodyOfWater: PAYETTE RIVER
NearestCityTown: EMMETT
County: IDAHO
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: Y
HazardousWaters: Y
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
AccidentCause3: Improper lookout
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Grounding
RedactedNarrative:
ON 03-04-23 THERE WAS A 2 VESSEL COLLISION LOCATED ON THE PAYETTE RIVER, NEAR EMMETT, IDAHO NEAR THE SEWER TREATMENT PLANT. THE COLLISION WAS A RESULT OF BOTH VESSELS COMING AROUND A BLIND CORNER ON THE RIVER. BOTH VESSSELS AATTEMPTED TO AVOID COLLISION AND IMPACTED BROADSIDE AND THEN RAN AGROUND. THE CRASH RESULTED IN 3 PERSONS BEING INJURED BEYOND FIRST AID, BUT NONE OF THE INJURIES WERE LIFE THREATENING OR INCAPACITATING. THE CRASH WAS NOT REPORTED TO LAW ENFORCEMENT UNTIL AFTER ALL INVOLVED PARTIES HAD LEFT THE SCENE.


BARDID: ID-2023-0002
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-05-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:07:00
State: ID
NameOfBodyOfWater: Boise River
NearestCityTown: Boise
County: Ada
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: Y
HazardousWaters: Y
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
RedactedNarrative:
On 05/01/23 between approximately 1441-1447 hours, Subject1 took his green and blue Intex Challenger K1 inflatable kayak (B1) to float the Boise River.  Subject1 was observed by a witness putting his kayak into the Boise River at the Barber Park drop area.  Subject2 tried to convince Subject1 not to go into the River, but shortly after their conversation Subject2 observed Subject1 floating down the Boise River.

Recognizing the dangerous levels and speed of the river, Subject2 tried to follow Subject1 down the river in a vehicle to try and make sure Subject1 didn’t fall into the river all the while attempting to call 911 to advise them.  

After losing sight of Subject1 for a short period, Subject2 then observed Subject1’s kayak floating by itself on the edge of the waterway.  An unknown witness approached Subject2 and said they saw a male kayaker floating in the river, next to the kayak, with his head just above the water before the male then disappeared.

The kayak and paddle were recovered by Boise Fire later that day.

On 05/16/23 at approximately 1700 hours Ada County Detectives were notified of a body that was recovered in the Boise River matching the description of Subject1.  On 05/17/23 the Ada County Coroner's Office confirmed the identity of the body to be Subject1.


BARDID: ID-2023-0003
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-05-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:28:00
State: ID
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lucky Peak Reservoir
NearestCityTown: Boise
County: IDAHO
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: Y
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Other
AccidentCause2: People on gunwale, bow, or transom
AccidentCause3: Operator inattention
OtherAccidentCause: Passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
RedactedNarrative:
On 05/18/2023 at 15:28 hours, Operator was operating a 2021 MB Sports F22 Alpha on Lucky Peak Reservoir with Passenger as a passenger. Operator was attempting to park his vessel on a dock located at Turner Gulch boat ramp. As the vessel approached the dock, Passenger sat on the bow and stuck her legs out in an attempt to prevent the bow from colliding into the dock. Passenger's foot got smashed between the bow of the boat and the dock, resulting in a large laceration to her foot.


BARDID: ID-2023-0004
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-05-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:41:00
State: ID
NameOfBodyOfWater: MURTAUGH LAKE
NearestCityTown: MURTAUGH
County: IDAHO
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: People on gunwale, bow, or transom
AccidentCause3: Sharp turn
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel was towing a skier (wake surfer).  One of the occupants in the vessel was seated on the bow while the vessel was in operation. Skier fell, operator of vessel turned to go back and get the wake surfer, occupant on bow fell off the bow and was run over by the boat where the propeller struck the occupants foot.


BARDID: ID-2023-0006
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-06-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:00:00
State: ID
NameOfBodyOfWater: Henry's Fork of Snake River
NearestCityTown: Ashton
County: ID
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: Y
HazardousWaters: Y
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause3: Hazardous waters
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
RedactedNarrative:
THE HYDE DRIFT BOAT LAUNCHED AT STONE BRIDGE RAMP WITH ONE ADULT MALE AND ONE ADULT FEMALE. AS THEY WERE APPROXIMATELY 2 MILES UPSTREAM FROM THE JUMP OFF CANYON BOAT RAMP, SHE WAS ROWING AND GOT THE BOAT PINNED AGAINST A VERY LARGE BOULDER. THE SWIFT WATER OF THE RIVER THEN SUNK THE BOAT AND KEPT IT PINNED AGAINST THE LARGE BOULDER.
THE ADULTS WERE ABLE TO GET OUT ONTO PART OF THE BOULDER. THE ONLY THING STILL SHOWING ABOVE THE WATER LINE WAS ONE ORE BY THE TIME WE RESPONDED. THEY REPORTED THAT NO ALCOHOL WAS CONSUMED. THEY WERE TRYING TO NAVIGATE AROUND THE LARGE ROCK BUT ROWED RIGHT INTO IT.


BARDID: ID-2023-0007
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-06-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:06:00
State: ID
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE LOWEL
NearestCityTown: CALDWELL
County: IDAHO
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentCause3: Excessive speed
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Jet Ski #1 was traveling South along the outer edge of the swim area.Jet Ski #2 was following slightly behind Jet Ski #1, off tho the side. The operator of Jet Ski #1 let off the throttle and fell forwardover the handlebars. Jet Ski #1 turned righr infront of Jet Ski #2, and vaulted over the top of Jet Ski #1. The operator of Jet Ski #1 had a broken leg, and the operator of Jet Ski #2 suffeed possible internal injuries. both were transported by ambulance to the hospital. The Jet Skis were released to the owner.


BARDID: ID-2023-0008
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-06-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:30:00
State: ID
NameOfBodyOfWater: Dworshak Reservoir
NearestCityTown: OROFINO
County: Clearwater
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: Y
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
AccidentEvent1: Collision with floating object
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel was crusing at approximately 30 miles per hour, North towards Gradad Bridge. The operator and passengers were keeping a proper lookout, because of floating debri, such as limbs and logs. 
Operator stated, there was a loud thump sound and vessel stopped moving. The operator observed the lower unit of his vessel hanging from the hydraulic trim cylinders. 
The operator stated, he must have hit a partially submerged log. 
There were no injuries to the operator or passengers.


BARDID: ID-2023-0009
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2023-06-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 00:15:00
State: ID
NameOfBodyOfWater: LUCKY PEAK
NearestCityTown: BOISE
County: Ada
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Poor
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Restricted vision
AccidentCause3: Excessive speed
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Grounding
RedactedNarrative:
On 6/17/23, Boat owner and operator took a group of four of his friends out on a late night boat cruise on Lucky Peak Lake. While cruising at a speed of approximately 15 to 20 miles per hour, Operator decided he would turn the boat around and head back to their camp site on the lake, but due to very poor visibility caused by night and the sky being overcast, Operator did not realize that he was in close proximity to the shoreline. Partially into the turn Operator suddenly found that he was heading into the rock face of the shoreline. Operator ended up running his 1995 Centurion 20 foot boat directly into the rock face of the shoreline causing major damage to his vessel and causing his vessel to be wedged onto the rock face of the shoreline. 

After the crash, Operator and all his passengers were able to climb out of the vessel, after which they made a 911 call for help and were picked up by Ada County Marine Patrol. During Ada County Marine Patrol's response an OUI investigation was conducted, due to Operator reporting that he had consumed alcohol prior to the crash. The conclusion of the investigation consisted of Operator providing a breath sample which resulted in a BAC of .023/.023 (results not over states legal limit).


BARDID: ID-2023-0010
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-06-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:45:00
State: ID
NameOfBodyOfWater: COEUR D'ALENE LAKE
NearestCityTown: COEUR D'ALENE
County: Kootenai
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Person departed vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by propeller
RedactedNarrative:
BASED ON THE DRIVER'S STATEMENTS AND OTHER OCCUPANTS, IT IS MORE LIKELY THAN NOT THE FOLLOWING EVENTS OCCURED: 
V1 were traveling at a slow rate of speed but were still in motion on Coeur d'Alene Lake, just north of Gozzer Ranch. The music was turned up relatively loudly and Operator was driving. P1, Injured, quickly told Operator he needed to urinate and then jumped off stem of the vessel. 
Injured did not give Operator time to react and tum off the vessel or put it into neutral to stop the propeller. Injured then collided with the propeller that was still in motion and sustained approximately 10 lacerations on his left leg. Approximately 5 of the lacerations were very deep and ranged from 6-10 cm long. The other 5 were not as major. According to medical staff at Kootenai Health one of the lacerations was extremely close to his femoral artery. 
Injured yelled to tum off the vessel, which Operator did. They then got Injured onto the vessel and quickly transported to 3rd Street Docks where Medical Personal was waiting for them. Injured was then transported to Kootenai Health via ambulance.


BARDID: ID-2023-0011
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2023-06-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:00:00
State: ID
NameOfBodyOfWater: PEND OREILLE LAKE
NearestCityTown: BAYVIEW
County: Kootenai
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Sharp turn
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentEvent2: Grounding
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was traveling southwest on Lake Pend Oreille near Eagle Boat Launch. The operator of vessel 1 was testing the boat because it was new to him and he had just done some electrical work to it. The operator of Vessel 1 turned to the right in a sharp fashion causing him to lose position in front of the helm. The operator was thrown to the left side of the vessel were he sustained an injury. The vessel self corrected and maintained course for shore just southwest of Eagle Boat Launch. As the operator got back to the helm, Vessel 1 struck the shore and traveled approximately 25 feet up from the water. The operator suffered several injuries and refused to be transported. The operator originally told me that the throttle had stuck (would move but not engage) and he had turned to try and slow his vessel down. He turned sharper than intended and was thrown from the helm. When a mechanic and I observed the 
vessel, the throttle was in neutral and ii worked appropriately. The throttle moved the cable and 
according to the mechanic, there was nothing wrong with it. I confronted the operator and he told me everything happened so fast that he thought the throttle did not engage in neutral. No one else was on board and no other damage was done.


BARDID: ID-2023-0012
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-06-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:45:00
State: ID
NameOfBodyOfWater: SPOKANE RIVER
NearestCityTown: COEUR D'ALENE
County: ID
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: Y
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Collision with fixed object
RedactedNarrative:
BASED ON THE DRIVER'S STATEMENTS AND OTHER OCCUPANTS, IT IS MORE THAN LIKELY THAN NOT THE FOLLOWING EVENTS OCCURED: 

V1 was attempting to dock his vessel when he lost control and struck V2 that was already docked. 

According to V1 he was pulling up to the dock and tried to turn his vessel but accidentally hit the motor of V2 because, something to the effect of, "it randomly lurched forward". 

This caused damage to the port side hull of V1 and damage to V2's motor cowling. The force of the impact pushed V2 into the dock and caused damage to the front starboard side of the vessel. 

Approximate damage to V1 is $2000.00. The dollar amount for damage to V2 is unknown at this time due to possible further below the waterline on the pontoon that hit the dock.


BARDID: ID-2023-0014
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:00:00
State: ID
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE COEUR D'ALENE
NearestCityTown: COEUR D'ALENE
County: ID
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Drug
AccidentCause3: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Collision with fixed object
RedactedNarrative:
At approximately 2000 hours B1 reversed out of its slip and backed into B4, pushing the bow of B4 into the dock and damaging the swim platform. 

B 1 then moved into the forward throttle position and traveled east between the E and F docks and struck the boardwalk dock, splintering the wood. 

In doing this, B1 struck B5 which was tied up to the dock next to the point of impact on the boardwalk, damaging the bow and cleat on B5. B1 then turned back around heading west between E and F docks where it struck B3 and B2. Upon striking B2 and the slip/awning, B1 came to a stop and was shut off. 

It should be noted that the B 1 operator claimed mechanical failure causing the boat to just take off. 
It should be noted that B6 reported damages to the motor in the following days, it cannot be determined when or if B6 was hit during this incident. The damages and time do match the general description of the incident. 

An investigation was completed and it was determined that the operator of B1 was under the influence of alcohol and drugs. It should also be noted that if a mechanical malfunction is discovered, the operator could have easily shut off his boat and limited the number of collisions that occurred.


BARDID: ID-2023-0016
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2023-06-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:35:00
State: ID
NameOfBodyOfWater: COEUR D'ALENE LAKE
NearestCityTown: HARRISON
County: ID
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Sinking
RedactedNarrative:
Driver 1 was headed north near the south end of carlin bay when he heard a noise come from the engine compartment. Driver 1 said the boat started to run funny. The driver looked into the engine compartment and saw that the compartment was filling with water. The passenger flagged down a passing boat to help tow the boat to carlin bay boat launch. On the way to the boat lunch the passenger was bailing water with a trash can that was on board. When they got the boat to the boat launch they secured it to the dock and the boat took on more water and completely sunk next to the dock.
1.	Driving north and heard a sound from the motor compartment.
2.	Looked in the compartment and noticed water.
3.	Got towed to carlin bay boat launch
4.	Secured to boat to the dock.
5.	Boat sank
6.      No impact
7.      Broken seal


BARDID: ID-2023-0017
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:30:00
State: ID
NameOfBodyOfWater: LUCKY PEAK
NearestCityTown: BOISE
County: ID
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On 07/07/23 at approximately 1630 hours, operator2 was operating a red 2012 sea doo personal watercraft (b2). With him was his friend, operator1, who was operating a white and gold 2012 sea doo personal watercraft (pwc) (b1). Both vessels were paralleling each other while traveling in a southward direction in the narrows.

While they were travelling south, both operators were not paying attention to the direction that they were traveling. Not realizing it, both of them began veering towards one another and once they both turned around to look where they were traveling b1 ran into the port side of b2. The hull of b1 hit operator2 on the left side of his ribs and head, knocking him into the water. Operator2 was wearing a life jacket at the time.

B2 circled around and pulled operator2 aboard his vessel, stating operator2 was alert but clearly hurting. Another unrelated vessel was sent to find law enforcement, after which operator2 was transported to spring shores marina where he was evaluated by medical. 

It was believed that operator2 had a concussion, but operator2 denied any further medical attention.


BARDID: ID-2023-0018
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:06:00
State: ID
NameOfBodyOfWater: SPOKANE RIVER
NearestCityTown: COEUR D'ALENE
County: ID
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: Y
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
AccidentCause2: Sharp turn
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On July 2, 2023 at approximately 1015 A.M., Driver 1 was traveling westbound along the Spokane River on his white and Green Sea doo Jet ski when he passed a ski boat traveling east. 

When he saw the wake caused by the ski boat, Driver 1 attempted to swerve away from it but hit the wake at a 90 degree angle, ejecting him from the operator's seat over the front of the jet ski. 

The motor was killed by the cut off switch but forward momentum caused the jet ski to hit Driver 1 in the head.


BARDID: ID-2023-0019
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:06:00
State: ID
NameOfBodyOfWater: SPOKANE RIVER
NearestCityTown: POST FALLS
County: ID
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: Y
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Other
AccidentCause3: Operator inattention
OtherAccidentCause: Passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On 07/01/2023 at approximately 1700, subject was in the operator seat while cruising at slow speed traveling upriver around Greensferry. mother to Operator1 was standing next to him while Victim (the injured party) was standing behind him. The other two passengers were seated near the bow of the pontoon on each side. 

At this time, Operator1 throttled up a little hard causing Victim to fall onto her back hitting the seat behind her with her hip. The boat was slowed and 911 called. Subject1 drove the pontoon upriver while the remaining passengers tended to Victim. We located the pontoon near Mill River and led them into the Blackwell Island boat launch where Medical arrived to aid Victim. Victim was taken by medical to the hospital.


BARDID: ID-2023-0020
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2023-06-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:01:00
State: ID
NameOfBodyOfWater: COEUR D'ALENE LAKE
NearestCityTown: COEUR D'ALENE
County: ID
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person struck by vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Based on the statements of the drivers and the evidence it is more likely than not the following events occurred: 

DR 2 and P1 on V2 were switching drivers. When they were switching P1 on V1 told D1 "it would be funny if they splashed them". 

D1 told him she did not know how to splash them. P1 told D1 to drive towards them and then turn sharply. D1 started to drive towards them and then P1 put V1 into sports mode and D1 lost control of the V1. V1 then t-bone collided with V2. 

When the collision occurred both occupants of V2 were injured. DR2 sustained a concussion and a broken right thumb. P1 ofV2 sustained a fractured tibia. 

Both occupants of V2 were transported to Kootenai Health for their injuries and Deputy took the initial report and pictures.


BARDID: ID-2023-0021
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-05-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:00:00
State: ID
NameOfBodyOfWater: SPOKANE RIVER
NearestCityTown: POST FALLS
County: ID
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: Y
HazardousWaters: Y
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Unseen water hazard
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
Based on the statements of B1, Operator and other passengers coupled with the evidence it is more likely than not the following events occurred: 

DR1 was traveling East bound on the Spokane River approximately 1 mile East of Templins Marina. DR1 struck a submerged deadhead. The collision caused the drive shaft and propeller to be pulled off the boat causing the boat to take on water. 

There were 8 passengers were on the vessel at the time of the accident. 

DR1 was traveling westbound, collided with a submerged deadhead. DR1 was then towed by an unknown boat to Templins Marina where multiple water pumps were used to keep the boat from sinking until we were able to get it on a trailer.


BARDID: ID-2023-0022
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2023-07-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:54:00
State: ID
NameOfBodyOfWater: COEUR D'ALENE LAKE
NearestCityTown: COEUR D'ALENE
County: ID
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Failure to vent
AccidentCause2: Ignition of spilled fuel or vapor
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Operator was fueling at the Shooters' gas docks. When he finished fueling, he untied his PWC from the dock and was pushed away by the gas attendants.

 He turned the PWC on and started to hit the forward throttle. Right as he did so, the PWC's engine combusted. His daughter was on another PWC in the same area. She observed the explosion. He was thrown from the PWC, into the water. He was wearing his life jacket and his daughter entered the water to assist him back to the gas docks for medical treatment. He was transported by medical to Kootenai Health prior to law enforcement arrival. Photos were taken of the burned PWC. The PWC burned to the waterline and was eventually removed from the water and towed.


BARDID: ID-2023-0023
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:01:00
State: ID
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE LOWELL
NearestCityTown: CALDWELL
County: ID
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: Y
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
When I arrived at the shore of the park. The reporting party explained to me that she had rented jet skis. Another male had been riding one of the jet skis, and it was damaged. Subject1 needed to report the accident, as she believed it was over $1,500 dollars. Subject1 showed me the damaged jet ski, and I observed the port side rear quarter panel had cracked fiberglass. I took photos of the damage. 

I spoke with Operator1 who told me another jet ski collided with him when he was operating on the water, this is what caused the damage.

Operator1 was operating the jet ski in the area of the Lake Lowell Lower Dam Park. He estimated there were approximately 8 jet skis in the area. Operator1 was accelerating and making high speed turns. He observed another jet ski driving toward him. He attempted to slow down and turn to starboard away from the jet ski. The bow of the other jet ski collided with the port side rear quarter panel of the jet ski Operator1 was riding. Operator1 alleged he did not know the other operator, and the operator of that jet ski fled the area.


BARDID: ID-2023-0024
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:30:00
State: ID
NameOfBodyOfWater: SNAKE RIVER
NearestCityTown: MARSING
County: ID
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: Y
HazardousWaters: Y
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Other
AccidentCause2: Hazardous waters
AccidentCause3: Force of wake/wave
OtherAccidentCause: Passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Person departed vessel
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
RedactedNarrative:
We talked to the wife who stated her husband jumped into the river to cool off after putting the canopy on the boat and got swept downstream by the current.  She said he was struggling so she jumped in to save him. She said she was able to swim to the shore of an island and walked along the bank looking for her husband. She then swan across the channel to get to a house to call for help. From the time he went under water to the time she called was about 30 to 45 minutes. Neither were wearing a life preserver.


BARDID: ID-2023-0025
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:00:00
State: ID
NameOfBodyOfWater: DWORSHAK
NearestCityTown: OROFINO
County: ID
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
RedactedNarrative:
A person was injured while being towed on a tube behind a boat. Boat turned, tube hit the wake and the rider was thrown across the water hitting his head and ear. The person riding the tube was taken to the emergency room for a possible ruptured eardrum.


BARDID: ID-2023-0026
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-23 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:07:00
State: ID
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lucky Peak Reservoir
NearestCityTown: Boise
County: ID
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentEvent2: Person departed vessel
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
RedactedNarrative:
On 07/23/23 at approximately 1700 hours, operator was operating a 1994 Bayliner BT on Lucky Peak Reservoir.  Operator and his fiancé were pulling four of their children on a tube behind the boat.  The tube flipped over and all four children fell into the water.  All four young children were wearing a pfd.  Operator observed one of the children was struggling to stay afloat and he jumped out of his vessel without a pfd in an effort to keep his daughter from drowning.

Witnesses stated it appeared the daughter's life jacket did not fit well, which was causing her to struggle staying afloat.  Those witnesses jumped into the water to help all four children reach safety onto a vessel, but by the time they looked back to check on Operator he began to disappear under the water, drowning.


BARDID: ID-2023-0027
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
State: ID
NameOfBodyOfWater: ANDERSON RANCH RESERVOIR
NearestCityTown: PINE
County: ID
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: Y
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Force of wake/wave
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
RedactedNarrative:
Subject was being towed by a boat.  She was on a tube.  The tube hit a wake, the victim went into the air.  When she came down her face hit the tube causing a laceration to her right eyelid.  She was taken to the hospital for sutures.


BARDID: ID-2023-0028
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:30:00
State: ID
NameOfBodyOfWater: LAKE CASCADE
NearestCityTown: CASCADE
County: ID
WaterConditions: Unknown
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause3: Improper lookout
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
RedactedNarrative:
PWC-1 was going north on plane and suddenly turned to the right and was broad sided by PWC-2. 

Driver of PWC-1 was picked up by PWC-2 and taken to shore where they were met by an ambulance, and she was then transported to Cascade Medical Center.


BARDID: ID-2023-0029
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-06-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:37:00
State: ID
NameOfBodyOfWater: PRIEST LAKE
NearestCityTown: PRIEST LAKE
County: ID
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause2: Machinery failure
AccidentCause3: Ignition of spilled fuel or vapor
OtherAccidentCause: Poor maintenance
MachineryFailure: Fuel
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
RedactedNarrative:
Marine 1 was dispatched to a reported boat fire at Priest Lake Marina. When I arrived, I found the boat, floating about 100 feet east of the fuel dock at Priest Lake Marina with 1 person on board. The fire was out and he was not injured. 

Operator1 stated that he put the fire out by unhooking the water supply to the engine. The boat was taken in tow without incident and towed to Kalispell Boat Launch where an inspection was completed. The boat was inspected before and after the tow and no damage was done. 

Upon inspection the vessel was shown to have been extensive damage from the explosion and fire. The Mercruiser engine had an automotive air cleaner rather than a spark arrester. One of the fuel lines was also loose. 

Operator1 stated that he was running the blower at the time of the accident. After further investigation it was determined that the vessel had 6 other occupants that were on board at the time of the fire. The occupants left the boat when the fire occurred by jumping overboard or getting on the dock. None were injured.


BARDID: ID-2023-0030
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:45:00
State: ID
NameOfBodyOfWater: LUCKY PEAK RESERVOIR
NearestCityTown: BOISE
County: ID
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Person struck by propeller
RedactedNarrative:
Driver of jet ski was attempting to "high five" a buddy on the back of a pontoon boat.  As he was attempting to drive by the back of the pontoon boat, his leg was caught by the prop and severely cut open the front of his leg. Both operators had been drinking alcohol.


BARDID: ID-2023-0031
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-06-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:18:00
State: ID
NameOfBodyOfWater: PRIEST LAKE
NearestCityTown: PRIEST LAKE
County: BONNER
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: People on gunwale, bow, or transom
AccidentEvent1: Person departed vessel
AccidentEvent2: Carbon monoxide exposure
RedactedNarrative:
Operator and his extended family were boating 1/4 mile east of Hill's Resort on Priest Lake when he stopped wake boarding and decided to let the children on board swim and play off the stern of the boat.

Operator left the engine running and at least five of the children were poisoned by the carbon monoxide fumes from the engine.  Three of the children suffered slight sickness, headaches and possible vomiting while the other two children suffered severe Carbon Monoxide poisoning.  

CPR was started on the two seriously injured children while motoring. After arriving at the resort, CPR and oxygen were administered by a by a good samaritan and EMS. Subsequently, two were transported to the hospital, one by LifeFlight to Sacred Heart in Spokane WA and the other to Newport by ambulance.


BARDID: ID-2023-0032
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-08-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:39:00
State: ID
NameOfBodyOfWater: MIDDLE FORK OF CLEARWATER RIVE
NearestCityTown: OROFINO
County: ID
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: Y
HazardousWaters: Y
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
RedactedNarrative:
CONSTRUCTION WORKERS ON HIGHWAY 12 REPORTED KAYAKER FLOATING FACEDOWN IN THE RIVER APPROX 60 FROM KAYAK. 

WORKERS PULLED subject FROM THE RIVER AND BEGAN CPR, WHICH WAS CONTINUED UNTIL AIR AMBULANCE TO ST JOSEPH REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER BY THAT TIME CPR HAD BEEN IN PROGRESS APPROX 60 MINUTES. NO WITNESS TO ACCIDENT ITSELF. FRIENDS WHO ARRIVED LATER, AND HAD BEEN OUT OF SIGHT UPSTREAM REPORTED THAT subject DENIED AN OFFERED LIFE VEST (PFD). KAYAK WAS BORROWED, IT IS UNKNOWN WHO THE KAYAK WAS BORROWED FROM.


BARDID: ID-2023-0033
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:00:00
State: ID
NameOfBodyOfWater: ANDERSON RANCH RES
NearestCityTown: PINE
County: ID
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Boat number one and boat number two had been tied together.  The operators of the boats decided to untie to go to a different location.  

Boat number two started to leave when the operator shut down to secure an item in the boat.  

The operator of boat number one did not notice in time that boat number two was stopping.  This is when boat number one struck second boat from the rear. 

One passenger who was seated at the time of impact in boat number two was taken to the hospital by POV due to backpain after the collision.  

She was diagnosed with a compression fracture at L1.


BARDID: ID-2023-0034
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:40:00
State: ID
NameOfBodyOfWater: SNAKE RIVER
NearestCityTown: LEWISTON
County: ID
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel was traveling down river on the Idaho side of the Snake River. There were three passengers riding on the bow. The vessel was very close to the shoreline. The operator turned around to talk to a passenger behind him and let go of the stick to steer the vessel. 

The vessel veered to the right, striking several rocks on the bottom of the vessel. The operator attempted to steer out of the shoreline last minute, turning to the left, causing the starboard stern to kick out and strike a large rock. When the vessel struck the rock, the it caused the bow to turn rapidly to the right, ejecting the three on the bow. 

All three landed on the rocks on the shoreline. The vessel continued moving and re-entered the water. 

The three individuals on the bow were Life Flighted to St. Joas Hospital. Alcohol was involved.


BARDID: ID-2023-0035
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-31 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:00:00
State: ID
NameOfBodyOfWater: BOISE RIVER
NearestCityTown: PARMA
County: ID
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: Y
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Poor maintenance
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
On the evening of 7/31/2023, the operator was traveling east with the current of the Boise River. The boat was transiting on plane at approximately 25 miles per hour. The operator was attempting to transit shallow water, the speed was needed to remain on plane. 

The river made a sharp bend to the left. While the operator was turning to the left, the outboard motor came loose from the transom (unknown why). The operator lost steering control and ran into the river bank. 

The operator was able to get off the bank, and continue transiting downstream utilizing the electric trolling motor. The boat began to take on water through the hull (unknown where). The operator beached the boat on the east shoreline. 

The boat was recovered on 08/02/23.


BARDID: ID-2023-0036
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-08-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:05:00
State: ID
NameOfBodyOfWater: SNAKE RIVER
NearestCityTown: LEWISTON
County: ID
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: Y
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
Operator was attempting to pull into a beach on the Idaho shoreline. This location is extremely shallow and rocky. He advised he was going slow and hit some rocks right in front of the pump intake. The rocks punched a hole in the bottom. He managed to get it to the beach, where the boat began to fill with water.


BARDID: ID-2023-0037
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:07:00
State: ID
NameOfBodyOfWater: AMERICAN FALLS RESERVOIR/CASTL
NearestCityTown: ABERDEEN
County: ID
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Unseen water hazard
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
RedactedNarrative:
BOAT WAS SLOWING TO AVOID FISHERMAN AND MOVED TO THE LEFT SIDE. IT WAS AT THIS TIME THAT HE STRUCK ROCKS UNDER THE WATER DAMAGING HIS BOAT.


BARDID: ID-2023-0038
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2023-08-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
State: ID
NameOfBodyOfWater: Blackfoot Reservoir
NearestCityTown: Soda Springs
County: Caribou
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause3: Sharp turn
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent2: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
The driver of Unit 1 was jumping wakes with unit 2. Unit 2 turned too sharp, lost control and fell off of his watercraft. The driver of unit 1 did not see him fall and rode over the top of unit 2. There were no injuries to either driver.


BARDID: ID-2023-0039
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-08-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:53:00
State: ID
NameOfBodyOfWater: PRIEST LAKE
NearestCityTown: PRIEST LAKE
County: ID
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Operator was paddle boarding near Kalispell Island when she fell and hit her jaw on the board causing her to bite her tongue.  The laceration was deep enough to possibly need stiches. 

She was transported to Kalispell Boat Launch by her father. Upon arrival they refused EMS service, instead self-transported to Newport Hospital where stiches were applied.


BARDID: ID-2023-0040
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-08-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:30:00
State: ID
NameOfBodyOfWater: LUCKY PEAK RESERVOIR
NearestCityTown: BOISE
County: ID
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: Y
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
RedactedNarrative:
Boat #1 was tied up a dock at Turnaround Point, on Lucky Peak Reservoir, in Boise County, Idaho. While Boat #1 was docked, an unknown red/white ski boat, was operating within 30ft of the dock, with an unknown individual on a surf board in tow. 

Within this area, the individual fell from his or her surfboard and landed in the water. The unknown boat operator quickly turned around to pick up the individual in the water. The owner of Boat #1 observed a large wave heading his direction that came from the ski boat. Operator1 was standing in his boat and attempted to shield his boat from the dock, with the use of his hands. Operator1 was unable to prevent his boat from colliding into the dock, which caused damage to the port side transom and swim deck on his vessel. 

According to Operator1, there was another blue in color ski boat and two Personal Watercraft's (PWC's) in the area at the time of the incident. Operator1 was unable to articulate which vessel created the wave that damaged his boat. Operator1 provided a partial ID number. However, Operator1 was not positive on the numbers and could not identify the other boat operators. A subsequent search of the area was conducted by Sheriff's Deputies; however, no boats matching the description were found. 

On August 16th, 2023, Operator1 provided a repair estimate he obtained from Chapman's Boat Repair in the amount of $3,179.24.


BARDID: ID-2023-0041
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-08-27 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:45:00
State: ID
NameOfBodyOfWater: BLACK CANYON RESERVOIR
NearestCityTown: EMMETT
County: ID
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Collision with floating object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent3: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
Informed me he was driving at around 25mph when he entered the cove 43.922201, -116.411720, observed a log, accelerated with a hard port turn, and then a hard starboard turn striking the floating dock with his jet ski bow number, causing it to start sinking. Upon observation of the jet ski, when it was on the trailer I observed a large whole in the hull on the port side, near the stern.


BARDID: ID-2023-0042
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:00:00
State: ID
NameOfBodyOfWater: COEUR D'ALENE LAKE
NearestCityTown: COEUR D'ALENE
County: ID
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: Y
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
RedactedNarrative:
81 is a rental boat and the operator and passengers rented it for the day of 07/08/2023. During the day, the vessel returned to the 3rd street marina to pick up additional passengers. While at the marina, the vessel hit the boat launch dock. No other vessel was reported to have damage however a witness saw the vessel impact the dock and come very close to the other vessel. 81 then picked up its passengers and left the area. Subject1 told me he did not observe damage when he saw the vessel in the morning however he saw damage after the impact. 

B1 returned the vessel and the operator and all passengers left before the boat owner arrived. The boat owner noticed the damage and called the person who rented the boat however they denied all of it and advised that the damage was already there. 

The damage to 81 is on the port side pontoon at the height of a dock. Deep scratches run the length of the pontoon and at the bow of the port pontoon is a large dent. This dent is on the point of a pontoon and looks as if the vessel ran straight into a hard structure. 

According to the owner, there were bottles of alcohol and trash left on board and the seats were stained by food. The operator is refusing to take mv calls/call me back. This is a hit and run crash. (All efforts have been made to contact the operator of the vessel without success, and there is no other information available.) 


BARDID: ID-2023-0043
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2023-08-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:04:00
State: ID
NameOfBodyOfWater: COEUR D'ALENE LAKE
NearestCityTown: COEUR D'ALENE
County: ID
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: Y
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentCause3: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
The operator put Boat 1 into reverse to exit the boat slip, and once the boat was out of the slip the operator put it into forward. Boat 1 moved forward and hit the rear of Boat 2, and continued to move forward over the swim platform of Boat 2. 

The operator then turned Boat 1 off and removed the key, causing the boat to stop its forward motion. After the collision, the operator was able to drive the boat to the dock and return it without further incident. Due to witness statements and the operator being able to return the boat, it was determined to be operator error and not a mechanical issue, and the operator was cited for Basic Rule (CO 6-2-104A).


BARDID: ID-2023-0045
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-09-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:06:00
State: ID
NameOfBodyOfWater: COEUR D'ALENE LAKE
NearestCityTown: COEUR D'ALENE
County: ID
WaterConditions: Choppy
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentCause3: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Person departed vessel
AccidentEvent2: Other
OtherAccidentEvent: Person strikes propeller
RedactedNarrative:
Operator1 and his party rented a pontoon boat and had spent the day swimming in different areas of the lake and was in the area of Rockford Bay when multiple passengers jumped in the water after the boat had slowed and was thought to be in neutral. 

Victim was injured by the propeller upon jumping in from the stern. Emergency services was contacted. We arrived on scene at the Harrison Docks where the boat had traveled to for medical attention. We found an intoxicated operator with multiple intoxicated passengers that were of no help in the investigation. 

We observed the victims injury and found it to be a single laceration to the outside lower left leg. Based on the injury and statements it is possible that the propeller was not spinning in gear when victim jumped on it. There was no damage seen to the outboard or the propeller. There was also no evidence like blood or markings to show that the prop had been hit. The driver was charged with Operating Under the Influence and the victim was life-flighted to the hospital for treatment and later discharged.


BARDID: ID-2023-0047
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-09-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:00:00
State: ID
NameOfBodyOfWater: PREIST LAKE
NearestCityTown: COOLIN
County: BONNER
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
RedactedNarrative:
Ski boat was towing a skier, Victim reached approximately twenty-eight MPH and kicked off one ski and tried to get his foot into the other ski. He fell forward and injured his right upper leg.

Skier as being towed by his wife on two skies at a speed of approximately 28 MPH. Victim kicked off one ski and while trying to get his foot into the other ski lost his balance, fell forward and did not come out of the other ski boot. Operator turned the boat around to pick up her husband and when she got to him, he told her that he was hurt. At that time, she threw him a rope and pulled him to the boat. He was able to pull himself up onto the boat and Operator brought him back to the dock. She called 911 for medical aid. Upon my arrival EMS had already transferred Victim to Newport Hospital with injured right upper leg.


BARDID: ID-2023-0048
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-09-24 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:54:00
State: ID
NameOfBodyOfWater: SNAKE RIVER
NearestCityTown: PINGREE
County: ID
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: Y
HazardousWaters: Y
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On September 24th, 2023, at approximately 17:54, dispatch advised of a water rescue at 1100 West Ferry Butte Road, Tilden Bridge. Dispatch advised of 4 individuals whose boat had capsized, Dispatch all so advised they were on a sandbar in the water. I contacted all individuals and obtained their information. 

I spoke with Operator and asking them what happened. Operator advised that they were drifting southward. Operator stated that he was the one rowing. Operator stated that they caught the edge of that pile, and it tipped the boat. The side and it began taken on water. At which point subject advised all parties to bail.  EMS arrived on scene and evaluated all parties. Other than being cold and maybe some bumps and bruises, all parties were fine, and were released to go home.

The parties were drift boating down the Snake River by Tilden Bridge, when they snagged a pile of logs and debris in the river.


BARDID: ID-2023-0049
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:00:00
State: ID
NameOfBodyOfWater: SNAKE RIVER
NearestCityTown: SWAN VALLEY
County: ID
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: Y
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
RedactedNarrative:
Boat was traveling downstream and struck a bridge piling. The boat was damaged beyond 1500.00 upon retravel several days later. No injuries reported.


BARDID: ID-2023-0050
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-10-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:45:00
State: ID
NameOfBodyOfWater: BOISE RIVER
NearestCityTown: EAGLE
County: ADA
WaterConditions: Unknown
StrongCurrent: Y
HazardousWaters: Y
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Hazardous waters
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
RedactedNarrative:
On 10/09/2023, subject and his wife decided to Kayak a portion of the Boise River. They put their kayaks in the river about a quarter mile east of N. Linder Road. 

After drifting about a mile down river from their start point, they found that the rivers current had picked up and was pushing them towards a large tree that had fallen across the entire channel of the river. Unable to get to the shoreline in time, their kayaks got forced up against the fallen tree. 

As subject1’s kayak became pinned against the tree the force of the current capsized Subject1’s kayak with him trapped inside. At this same time Subject2’s kayak also became pinned against the tree just over the top of Subject1’s kayak. Subject2 scrambled to try to pull Subject1 from his kayak but was unable to overcome the pressure of the current. Subject2 was able to climb from her kayak and onto the fallen tree, where she was able to get to the shoreline and run to a nearby house for help. 

   Once Fire and Law Enforcement arrived, they were able to locate Subject1 and pull him and both kayaks from being pinned against the tree in the river but were unable to resuscitate Subject1.


BARDID: ID-2023-0051
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-10-07 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:00:00
State: ID
NameOfBodyOfWater: SNAKE RIVER
NearestCityTown: MOUNTAIN HOME
County: ID
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: No wind
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Overloading
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Subject was in a 12-foot boat.  The horsepower rating was 7.5hp but a an 18 hp motor on it. Due to the weight on the stern the boat began to take on water swamping the boat.


BARDID: ID-2023-0052
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-11-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:45:00
State: ID
NameOfBodyOfWater: SNAKE RIVER
NearestCityTown: MELBA
County: ID
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
RedactedNarrative:
73 YEAR OLD MALE SUBJECT WENT HUNTING ALONE ON HIS BOAT. HIS SON STATED HIS DAD WAS BROKE DOWN AND NEEDED HELP. TWO HOURS PASSED AND SON SAID HE MUST BE LOST.  HE WAS NO LONGER ANSWERING PHONE. LAW ENFORCEMENT LOCATED THE HUNTER'S BOAT APPROXIMATELY ONE MILE DOWN RIVER FROM WALTER'S FERRY LAUNCH SITE. MALE WAS LOCATED IN THE WATER BETWEEN HIS BOAT AND THE SHORELINE, FACE UP. THE MALE WAS DECEASED. (WAITING ON RESULTS FROM THE CORONER)


BARDID: ID-2023-0053
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-10-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:04:00
State: ID
NameOfBodyOfWater: Quinn's Pond
NearestCityTown: Boise
County: ID
WaterConditions: Calm
StrongCurrent: N
HazardousWaters: N
CongestedWaters: N
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Improper loading
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
RedactedNarrative:
According to witnesses accounts the following took place on Quinns Pond in Boise Idaho on 10/20/2023 around 16:04 hours: Subject1 and her father, Operator, were both on a paddle board together without PFD's. 

While Subject1 was on the front of the board with Operator on the back they lost their balance and both fell from the paddle board into the water. 

Once both Subject1 and Operator surfaced, Operator pushed the paddle board towards Subject1 so she could get back on the board with the help of other bystanders in the pond. During this time Operator was seen going under water and resurfacing two to three times before he went back under water and did not resurface. 

Police and Fire were both called to the scene, wherein police attempted to look for Operator in the water but were unable to locate him. Once the Fire Dive Rescue Team arrived, they were able to locate Operator approximately 110 feet from the shoreline in 30 feet of water. Life saving measures were taken on Operator as he was transported to the hospital where he was pronounced dead.


BARDID: IL-2023-0003
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-04-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 09:21:00
State: IL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Mississippi River
NearestCityTown: Nauvoo
County: Hancock
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
RedactedNarrative:
On Tuesday, April 11, 2023 at approximately 9:21 AM, Vessel 1 and Operator were seen by a witness. 

Operator was in the water with only his head visible and was attempting to swim after Vessel 1 according to witness. Operator then was seen going completely under and not returning to the surface according to the witness. Operator was recovered the next day at approximately 11:30 AM in the location relayed to emergency responders by the witness. The location was approximately 100 yards from the road in 5.5 feet of water. Operator was reported dead at this time by the Hancock County Coroner. Operator was not wearing a life jacket, one was recovered from Vessel 1.


BARDID: IL-2023-0007
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-03-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:18:00
State: IL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Sangamon River
NearestCityTown: Beardstown
County: Cass
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Unseen water hazard
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent3: Person ejected from vessel
RedactedNarrative:
At approximately 10:15 AM on March 20th, 2023, a boat accident occurred on the Sangamon River, approximately 4 miles NE of Beardstown. The accident involved one 16-foot Lund vessel (vessel 1) with three passengers. 

After considering the limited information provided by the occupants to the evidence in and along the river (e.g., submerged tree, markings on bank and trees) and the vessel, the following summary reflects what the investigating officers believed happened during the incident. 

While cruising, vessel 1 struck a submerged tree which caused the operator to lose control of the tiller handle. After striking the tree, vessel 1 veered right directing the starboard side into the bank/roots and the bow into a tree trunk at the river's edge. The force from hitting the tree along with the angle of travel caused the stern of the boat to swing into an adjacent tree. The combination of the impacts caused the operator to fall out of the boat as it continued forward. Shortly thereafter vessel 1 struck another tree (causing a second occupant to fall out) and then the bank where it came to a stop due to the fuel line becoming detached from the motor. 

The operator was identified as Operator. The passengers were identified as Passenger 1 and Passenger 2. Operator reportedly suffered fractured ribs, a punctured lung, fractured back, and a shoulder injury. Passenger 1 suffered a small brain bleed in his frontal lobe as well as a contusion and laceration near his left eye that required two stitches.  Passenger 2 did not sustain any injuries that required medical attention. 

None of the occupants were wearing life jackets. 

It is believed that a combination of striking the submerged tree along with the operator failing to use a functional safety switch/lanyard contributed to the accident.

It is estimated that the boat sustained around $500 in damages from the accident.

See supplemental report for additional information.


BARDID: IL-2023-0008
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-05-13 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:36:00
State: IL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Michigan
NearestCityTown: Chicago
County: Cook
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Restricted vision
AccidentCause3: Weather
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Unit 1 operated by Operator 1 was traveling northbound into the DuSable Harbor at a no wake speed. Operator 1 attempted to make a turn in the westward direction in order to dock his vessel at slip 1. During the attempted turn, Operator 1 operated his vessel too closely to Unit 2. Unit 2 was stationary as it was currently docked at slip 2. Unit 2 is owned by Owner 2 who was on board during the incident. Unit 1's port and stern side made contact with unit 2 at it's port and stern as well. Unit 1 recieved minimal damage as it was protected by a rubber guard on its side. Visible white paint from Unit 2 can be seen on unit 1. Unit 2 has extensive fiberglass damage to the vessels port and stern meeting point.


BARDID: IL-2023-0009
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-05-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:45:00
State: IL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Spring Lake
NearestCityTown: Antioch
County: Lake
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was traveling south in the Spring Lake Channel towards Bluff Lake in a no wake zone.  Vessel 2 was traveling north in the channel towards Spring Lake.  Vessel 1 was in the middle of the channel and when he tried to move to allow Vessel 2 to get through, he increased the throttle which pushed the rear port side of Vessel 1 into the center starboard of Vessel 2.  Vessel 2 could not adjust course due to the narrow channel and already being on the right side.  Vessel 2 was then pushed into a cement pillar and struck the rear starboard of the boat.  Both vessels safely exited the channel and went to a nearby dock.


BARDID: IL-2023-0010
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-05-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:45:00
State: IL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Grass Lake
NearestCityTown: ANTIOCH
County: Lake
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (unknown origin)
RedactedNarrative:
At approximately 7:45PM Operator and his family were out boating on the Fox lake Chain O Lakes. Approximately 75 feet east from Blarney's island on Grass Lake, Operator stated he tried to hit the throttle forward to move his pontoon at a more accelerated speed when he heard loud chattering coming from the motor. Operator stated he lost all control while steering, Operator stated he hit the throttle again where he heard the loud sound again coming from the motor. Operator stated he checked the engine and realized it started smoking, seconds later the engine cover caught on fire. Operator stated it was unknown how the fire was started. Operator stated his wife, Passenger 1, called 911, while he put out the fire. Antioch Fire Department responded and the watercraft was towed by Blarney's island back to the Port of Blarneys at approximately 8:20PM. Five passengers total including Operator, Passenger 1, Passenger 2 and Operator and Passenger 1's two younger boys. Report was taken and Operator was able to get the watercraft back on his trailer to transport home.


BARDID: IL-2023-0021
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-05-09 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:55:00
State: IL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Des Plaines River
NearestCityTown: Channahon
County: Will
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentCause3: Force of wake/wave
AccidentEvent1: Collision with floating object
RedactedNarrative:
The complainant/witness #1 (W1) stated he observed a group of six recreational boats traveling to the southeast on the Des Plaines River. W1 said none of the boats slowed down to no wake speed as they approached Harborside Marina which is posted as a no wake area that spans five hundred feet in both directions of the Marina. There are two large no wake signs and several slow, no wake buoys in this no wake area. 

W1 said three of the vessels created more of a wake than the other three and he was able to identify these three by name. W1 said a white and black Carver (Unit #1) created the biggest wake. He said the waves from Unit #1 traveled to the southwest bank of the Des Plaines River and caused damage to a house boat (Unit #2) he owns along with a nearby free standing pier shelter. W1 also said one of the Harborside Marina docks owned by his father had been damaged by the large waves from Unit #1.

Complainant/witness #2 stated he observed five recreational boats traveling southeast on the Des Plaines River. W2 said several of the boats failed to slow down to no wake speed as they approached Harborside Marina. W2 stated Unit #1 made a large wake which caused damage to his dock and his son's house boat (Unit #2). The damage to the dock was said to be mainly structural. 

Unit #1 was eventually located up river while entering the Lockport Lock and Dam. The operator of Unit #1 stated he took Unit #1 out of storage in Lasalle County and was traveling south east on the Des Plaines River while enroute to Chicago. Unit #1 operator said he did not slow down to no wake speed at Harborside Marina as he did not realize he had entered a no wake zone. Unit #1 operator was cited for the violation of a no wake area and was also issued written warnings for registration violations. 

END OF REPORT


BARDID: IL-2023-0022
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-05-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:30:00
State: IL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Illinois River
NearestCityTown: Peru
County: La Salle
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Improper loading
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On 5/23/2023 at 2:34PM, I CPO 1 received a call from Valcom about an injury on a boat near South Shore Boat Club. The individual hurt was refusing medical. I arrived at South Shore Boat Club and went to the restaurant where a male approached me and advised that the individuals that called 911 left to go to the hospital. Their boat was docked next to our patrol boat. I went to their boat and took pictures. 

CPO 2 arrived on scene and took me to St. Margaret's Health Emergency Department in Spring Valley. CPO 3 stayed with the boat in case the owner returned. I asked if there was any female there for a boating accident or with a head injury related to a boating accident. The nurses took CPO 2 and I back to the room of the female (later identified as Injured). I asked Injured to explain what happened to the best of her ability. She explained that she was on the boat with her cousin, Passenger 2, the operator, and a women named "passenger 3." She stated that she got back into the boat after jumping in and must have slipped and hit her head on the floor of the boat. She informed me that they all had only a few alcoholic drinks except the operator who had none.

After the interview with Injured, CPO 3 called and advised he had spoke to the boat owner/operator. Operator advised that a boat came across after everyone had gotten back in the boat. He told everyone to hold on when he saw the wake approaching; Injured did not grab quick enough and slipped and hit her head. 

When I returned to South Shores Boat Club, Passenger 2 arrived as well and walked down to the boat. I asked her to explain what happened. She advised they were in the water and got back on the boat. Injured did not grab on when the wake hit and she fell and hit her head. Passenger 2 stated that Injured was unconscious for a few minutes and was bleeding. She had Operator call 911, but when Injured came to she stated that she did not need an ambulance and could be transported to the hospital via private vehicle. At this time Passenger 2 took her to St. Margaret's Emergency Department in Spring Valley. 

Injured received numerous staples in the back of her head.


BARDID: IL-2023-0023
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-05-11 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:00:00
State: IL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Michigan
NearestCityTown: Chicago
County: Cook
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On the afternoon of May 15, 2023, I, CPO 1, received information about a boat accident that occurred on Lake Michigan at Montrose Harbor on May 11, 2023 at approximately 12:00 PM.  A powerboat owned by Freedom Boat Club and operated by V1 Operator struck the unoccupied vessel belonging to V2 Owner.  While attempting to dock the powerboat at Montrose Harbor Dock, V1 Operator struck the rudder of the sailboat that was docked at Dock.  V1 Operator reported the accident to Freedom Boat Club and an internal report was made.

On May 18, 2023 at approximately 12:09 PM, in a written statement, V2 Owner stated that on May 11, 2023, he received a call from Freedom Boat Club sayinig that one of their customers (V1 Operator) had hit his boat.  Upon nivestigation, he found damage to the rudder and transom.  V2 Owner pointed out the damage on the boat.  I noticed a small dent in the rudder and some hairline cracks in the fiberglass surounding the mounts.

On May 18, 2023 at approximately 2:06 PM, in a written statement, Witness 1 stated that on May 11, 2023 at approximately 12:05 PM, he witnessed a power boat belonging to Freedom Boat Club strike the rear of the unoccupied sailboat belonging to V2 Owner.

On May 18, 2023 at approximately 2:31 PM, in a written statement, Witness 2 (Freedom Boat Club employee) stated that V1 Operator came in too close to dock.  Witness 2 instructed V1 Operator to turn and reverse, but V1 Operator went forward and struck the sailboat.

On May 30, 2023 at 10:59 AM, I received an emailed statement from V1 Operator.  He stated that on May 11, 2023, he was attempting to dock the vessel at Montrose Harbor and the aft portion of his boat touched the other vessel.

V1 Operator will be issued a written warning for careless operation of a watercraft.


BARDID: IL-2023-0024
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-05-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:50:00
State: IL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Grass Lake
NearestCityTown: Spring Grove
County: Lake
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Thursday
AccidentCause1: People on gunwale, bow, or transom
AccidentCause2: Overloading
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
AccidentEvent3: Capsizing
RedactedNarrative:
CPO 1 and 2 responded to a capsized boat on Grass Lake north of the Grass Lake Rd bridge.  We arrived several minutes later to find operator aboard a private vessel that was passing by.  The 12 jon boat was completely capsized.  CPOs were able to overturn the vessel and hip tow it back to shore where it was bailed out.  CPOs assisted in getting the boat out of the water and back on the trailer.  The motor was a new 15HP yamaha tiller (MSRP ~ $3,200) the motor was believed to be hydro locked when it capsized resulting in a total loss.

Operator was underway in a 12ft jon boat with a 15 HP motor at the time of the incident.  The 15 HP motor was over sized for the vessel, even tho the capacity plate was worn off and unreadable.  Wave action from wind and large boats also made it unsafe operating conditions for such a small vessel.  Operator lost his balance in the boat and lost control of the tiller handle causing the boat to spin in circles.  In doing so, water came over the transom and eventually swamped and then capsized the vessel.

Operator was wearing a PFD during the incident and no injuries were sustained.   The motor was damaged in the incident and replacement cost was estimated at $3,200.


BARDID: IL-2023-0025
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-05-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:30:00
State: IL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Michigan
NearestCityTown: Chicago
County: Cook
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Engine
AccidentEvent1: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
On 5/29/23 I, CPO 1, and CPO 2 responded to a call over the radio for a boat who was taking on water out on Lake Michigan.  CPO 2 and I were on the Chicago River at that moment and had to wait to Lock through to get out on Lake Michigan.  The accident happened around 11:30 am and CPD, Chicago Police Department, responded with therir Marine unit to tow the boat in before we arrived.  CPO 2 and I arrived on scene at approximately 11:45 am at the long dock in Monroe Harbor.  Upon arrival we were briefed by CPD on what happened and the owner/ operator were on the way to speak to us.  Once the operator arrived he stated they were headed South towards the Planetarium and both engines failed.  He checked the engines only to find out they were full of water.  A boat near by arrived around the time he noticed this and all the passengers were removed from the sinking boat and onto another boat.  They were taken to the Navy Pier which is North of where the incident occurred.  CPD arrived as they were pulling away and towed to boat to Monroe Harbor which is Northwest of where the incident occurred.  That is when CPO 2 and I arrived and took the scene over.

After investigation it was determined that the engines shut off due to them being submerged in water.  The owner of the boat stated he took it to his mechanic and got a rough estimated price of how much the damage would cost.  The owner told me he was not going to fix the boat anytime soon due to financial reasons.  He is just going to keep it on a trailer in the mean time. There were no known cracks in the boat due to coliding with an object.  This could have been operator error and forgot to put the plug in the boat before departing. For the passengers who boarded the other boat, I tried to have the owner/operator of the boat provide me a list of the people on board with their information.  The owner/operator did not have any of the passengers information.  He stated they were all friends of his family but they did not speak english and did not have any of their information.  I tried to get the name of the boat that took on the passengers but nobody knew the name of the boat and there was no camera footage for this incident. 

End of report


BARDID: IL-2023-0026
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-05-31 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:02:00
State: IL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Kinkaid Lake
NearestCityTown: Murphysboro
County: Jackson
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Sharp turn
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Person ejected from vessel
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
RedactedNarrative:
On 05/31/23 I CPO was dispatched to Kinkaid Lake by IDNR Sgt. Sgt1 advised that he had been notified that an elderly male had entered the water and was presumably deceased below the surface of the lake. I met with CPO at the Kinkaid Marina at approximately 2200. CPO1 and I traveled by boat to the scene of the incident and spoke with Jackson County Deputy. Deputy1 stated that 2 subjects (one male, one female) had been ejected from their boat at approximately 1900 hours. 

The female (Injured1) was rescued by boaters who happened to be passing by but the male subject (Deceased1) had gone below the surface of the water and had not been seen again. There were also multiple fire/ rescue teams a long with divers on scene.  Utilizing sonar instruments we located multiple "targets" for divers to investigate. None of these were discovered to be the deceased male. At approximately 2350 hours rescue personnel and divers discontinued the search for the night. CPO1 and I discovered the boat involved in the incident approximately 600 yards ENE of the incident location. This boat was lodged on a weedbed and still idling (engine cutoff mechanism present but not utilized). 

The boat had a bimini top which was collapsed to the port side and other heavy items were also shifted to port. This boat was documented and secured prior to our departure.  On 06/01/23 Sgt1 and CPO's assisted at the scene of the incident with the utilization of sonar and security for dive personnel. I met with and interviewed the surviving female at Carbondale Memorial Hospital. 

Injured1 stated that she and her husband had departed the Kinkaid Lake Campground via boat at between 1730 and 1800 hours. Deceased1 was operating the boat and the two traveled to the area of the spillway, turned around, and came back to the vicinity of the main marina. They then once again operated to the area of the spillway and turned back around. Injured1 stated that much of their ride was at a high rate of speed, stating she saw the RPM instrument reading 4000 RPM for much of the time. She also advised that the speedometer was inoperable.  

Injured1 stated that just prior to the incident Operator was making a sharp, arcing left turn. She advised that the boat was "leaning" to the left during the turn. During this turn Operator lost control of the vessel and they were ejected into the water out the port (her) side. She stated that both she and Operator were conscious while in the water and they treaded water for approximately 5 minutes before a passing boat came to their aid. 

At approximately 1906 hours a pontoon boat with 3 occupants approached their position and attempted to provide PFD's to the distressed couple. As Injured secured a PFD for flotation, Operator disappeared below the surface of the water (substantiated by my subsequent interview with the witnesses). Injured was pulled onto the pontoon boat while Operator remained missing.  Injured was taken to Carbondale Memorial Hospital via ambulance and diagnosed with a fractured left femur. 

After my investigative interview with Injured1 I wrote out her statement at her request. I reread the statement to her prior to her signing it. After departing the hospital, Sgt1 notified me that Deceased1's deceased body had been located with sonar and recovered by divers (approximately 1457 hours). He was located in approximately 55 feet of water.  On 06/02/23 I interviewed the 3 witnesses. They provided a similar account and time frame of the event. They collectively stated that they observed 2 people "swimming" off the point in question, determined that they were in distress, and attempted to rescue both subjects. 

All witnesses advised that Operator went below the surface of the water while they were in the act of attempting to provide him with a PFD. A collective written statement was secured from the witnesses (provided in subsequent report).  It was discovered that the steering mechanism of the boat is compromised. It is unknown at this time whether it failed during operation (causing the accident), or was damaged during the violent action of the motor and steering assembly slamming the transom of the boat when inertia whipped to starboard and ejected the occupants.


BARDID: IL-2023-0027
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-05-28 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:15:00
State: IL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Shelbyville
NearestCityTown: Findlay
County: Shelby
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
AccidentEvent1: Fall in vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Unit 1 was cruising on Lake Shelbyville and jumping wake on a PWC.  Upon landing partially upon another wave, Unit 1 jerked hard to the side.  The operator of Unit 1''s leg struck the side of Unit 1 and was broken.  The operator of Unit 1 was ejected from the vessel and climbed back on and traveled to its final resting location on Wolf Creek State Park Beach where he was treated and eventually transported to Sarah Bush Lincoln Memorial Hospital.


BARDID: IL-2023-0031
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-06-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:00:00
State: IL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Illinois River
NearestCityTown: Seneca
County: La Salle
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
At approximately 5:42PM I, Conservation Police Officer (CPO) was dispatched by Illinois State Police dispatch referencing a boat versus boat accident with property damage only. CPO and I arrived on scene at approximately 6:26PM.  I met with an employee in the parking lot of Spring Brook Marina in Seneca who explained vessel #1 hit vessel #2 while turning and attempting to dock. There is heavy damage to both vessels. 

Vessel #1 with IL registration had heavy damage to the port side and middle toons (see attached pictures). He stated that the rental pontoon came into the harbor area and hit the throttle hard. The rental hit the engine of another docked pontoon at the marina. The employee stated that the operator of the rental pontoon left quickly after the event occurred.

When the incident occurred the Mercury 150HP engine of vessel #2 was trimmed down in the water. The engine was trimmed up out of the water when I arrived. There was a large gauge in the port side and split at the seam from the bottom to the top. There were cracks throughout. On the starboard side there are punctures on the side and scrapes on the metal surrounding. There are dents in the toons from where they hit the dock (see attached pictures).

CPO interviewed the passengers of vessel #2 and explained that two people admitted to drinking alcohol and smoking marijuana while on board, but they were not sure if Operator1 had smoked anything. They stated the throttle had stuck numerous times throughout their day. 

The employee that called dispatch stated the gas dock workers possibly would have seen something. I spoke with all three gas dock employees. They advised that the individuals on the rental boat pulled a bunch of coolers on board, a Rubbermaid full of mushrooms that “look like coral,” and were smoking a joint. 

The owner of vessel #2 informed me that he was on the boat snapping the cover on when he heard a throttle accelerate hard, looked back and saw the boat, dove into the steering column for cover and that is when the boat hit his. his wife, was on the dock observing and stated, “I watched my entire family life flash before my eyes.”

I spoke with Operator1 and asked what happened. He stated that he took over operating because the man operating was not comfortable turning the boat around. During the conversation he informed me that he never meant to cause damage and had not been drinking. Operator1 explained that all he could do was turn the wheel hard and try to get away. I asked him if he had any boating experience or any outside boat training in regards for the accident report. He advised he had boated before but did not have any outside training. Operator1 expressed to me that he was upset because he had been told by an employee that he was okay to leave. Throughout our conversation he advised that at one point there were eight people on board the pontoon. He did not believe there were enough life jackets on board for all eight people.


BARDID: IL-2023-0032
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-06-18 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:45:00
State: IL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Pistakee Lake
NearestCityTown: Johnsburg
County: McHenry
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Weather
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel 1 was operating within the marina at a no wake speed traveling to his boat slip.  There was a gust of wind of approximately 20mph when Vessel 1 made a left turn into the boat slip striking vessel 2, which was docked and unoccupied, in the stern on the starboard side of the boat.


BARDID: IL-2023-0034
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-06-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:30:00
State: IL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Springfield
NearestCityTown: Springfield
County: Sangamon
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On June 13, 2023, I (Cpo 1) was notified by V2 Operator that his vessel had been struck by another vessel at the Lindsay Bridge Boat Ramp on Saturday June 10, 2023 at approximately 1:30pm.  V2 Operator provided me with vessel and owner information on June 16, 2023.  He states he was ideal at the boat ramp when a White Chaparral, (Vessel 1) operated by V1 Operator operated into his Regal, (Vessel 2).  V1 Operator corroborated V2 Operators statement of the crash.  Vessel 1 sustaned damage to bow and starboard sides.  The owner of Vessel 1 is not seeking reparis.  Vessel 2 sustained damage down the port side. (see attached photos)  Vessel 2 has an estimates repair cost of $6,000.


BARDID: IL-2023-0043
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:10:00
State: IL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Carlyle Lake
NearestCityTown: Clinton
County: Clinton
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Unseen water hazard
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
On 07/15/2023 CPOs were patrolling on Carlyle lake from a state issued Patrol boat. At approximately 5:30pm we responded to a watercraft on the rocks under the train trestle approximately .70 miles north of Boulder Boat ramp. The bow of a watercraft was on the bank approximately 10 feet north of the train trestle and the stern was completely submerged.

The owner/operator and his two passengers were standing on the bank with lifejackets on. The operator stated he was traveling less than 10mph when something hit the bottom of his boat approximately 50 yards north of the train trestle. Water started coming up from the floor of the watercraft and the motor was still operational. He was able to operate the boat to the rocks so they could get to shore. The operator and the passengers were not injured and there was no evidence of alcohol or drug use. He has owned the watercraft for 4 years and has 75 hr. of boating experience. They were camping at Boulder this weekend and had never operated a watercraft on Carlyle Lake.

We Transported the passengers and operator to the Boulder Boat Ramp where family members were waiting their arrival. watercraft was recovered and removed from the lake at approximately 8:00pm. He informed me of a fist size hole in the keel of his watercraft approximately 4 feet from the stern.
 
I sent the IDNR link to reporting and completing the boat accident form to his personal e-mail


BARDID: IL-2023-0054
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:15:00
State: IL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Petite Lake
NearestCityTown: Lake Villa
County: Lake
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Improper lookout
AccidentCause2: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Unit 2 was on Petite Lake with Unit 1 riding PWC's together. Unit 2 came to a stop/slow. Unit 1 did not and collided with Unit 2. No injuries reported.
BWC activated - not on scene/report delayed.


BARDID: IL-2023-0058
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 00:15:00
State: IL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Fox River
NearestCityTown: Barrington
County: Lake
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Poor
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause3: Restricted vision
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Operator and his nephew had been listening to music at Broken Oar Bar and Grill. They left on Operator's boat when the music was over. Operator stated he had not been drinking but his nephew was as a passenger. He explained that navigation was difficult due to dark conditions on the water and while underway they unexpectedly came across another boat (without lights) on the river. An abrupt steering maneuver caused their boat to go off-course, strike the pier and exited the water completely. Operator had a laceration to arm and sore ribs. The occupant was uninjured and they both left the scene. A person walking the preserve in the morning found the boat and contacted the Lake County Forest Preserve Police


BARDID: IL-2023-0068
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-05-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 12:30:00
State: IL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Wildwood
NearestCityTown: Varna
County: Marshall
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Collision with fixed object
RedactedNarrative:
Operator of Vessel 1 was operating in a narrow cove on Lake Wildwood.  Vessel 2 was moored at a private dock and unoccupied.  Vessel 1 attempted to make a port side turn and struck the rear starboard side of vessel 2.  The implact caused vessel two to collide with the dock. This impact caused  dents, scuffing, and paint transfer in several areas on the boat. 

Operator inexperience and operator inattention were contributing factors. 

Vessel 2 has an estimated $2000.00 in damages.

Vessel 1 has an estimated $400.00 in damages


BARDID: IL-2023-0069
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-06-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:59:00
State: IL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Kankakee River
NearestCityTown: Kankakee
County: Kankakee
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Skier mishap
AccidentEvent3: Person departed vessel
RedactedNarrative:
This report documents a multi vessel personal injury watercraft accident that occurred on the Kankakee River near Cobb Park on 6/20/23 at approximately 5:59 P.M. 

     On 6/20/23 at approximately 18:30 I, CPO 1, responded to a personal injury watercraft accident that occurred on the Kankakee River near Cobb Park in Kankakee, IL.  V1 Operator was operating a 2021 Sun Tracker Pontoon (Vessel 1) while pulling three tubers, traveling Westbound parallel to the starboard side of a watercraft operated by V2 Operator (Vessel 2).  
 
   V1 Operator passed V2 Operator's watercraft, swung his watercraft out and circled back left (Eastbound) in an attempt to change directions and head back up river. V1 Operator was utilizing a spotter (V1 Passenger 1) while he was pulling three juvenile tubers who were wearing life jackets.  V1 Operator stated that "I was pullling an inner tube behind the boat with my grandkids on it.  My daughter was in the boat spotting.  I made a "u" turn heading up river and couldn''t pull out of the turn before striking the other boat on its right side, front.  I struck it (mine) on the Right front, it was too late to stop the boat" (V1 Operator statement attached).  At this time he collided with the bow/starboard side of a 2006 Mastercraft operated by V2 Operator.  After impact the three tubers being towed behind the pontoon collided with the starboard side of the Mastercraft.
 
     V2 Operator stated that they were wake surfing on her Mastercraft traveling Westbound at approximately 10 MPH.  She stated that the Pontoon traveling parallel to her watercraft got close to the starboard side of her watercraft.  At this time, the occupants of her watercraft yelled and put their hands in the air.  V2 Operator stated that the pontoon then circled around going approximately 25 mph pulling a tube with three little children.  She stated that at this time, the pontoon was coming straight towards her watercraft.  V2 Operator advised that she attempted to honk her horn to alert the pontoon operator, while the occupants of her watercraft were waving their hands in an additional attempt to alert the pontoon operator.  Right before the pontoon impacted her vessel, V2 Operator advised that four passengers, including a two year old (wearing a life jacket) abandoned the watercraft right before impact.  Two of the watercraft occupants stayed on the watercraft during the impact and were uninjured.  All of the occupants on V2 Operator's watercraft were uninjured.     
 
     V1 Passenger 1 stated that after the collision V2 Operator swam over to their vessel to confront V1 Operator, but was unable to deploy the pontoon ladder.  Vessel one sustained significant damage to the front/starboard side of the watercraft (photos attached), but was still operational.  Vessel two also sustained damage to the bow/starboard side of the watercraft (photos attached) and was also operational.  Illinois State Police TPR. 2 and SGT. 3 initially responded to the scene and collected information from the operators of both vessels.  During a field interview V1 Operator admitted fault and accepted responsibility for the watercraft accident. The watercraft owners/operators later exchanged insurance information.  One juvenile from vessel one was transported to Riverside Medical Center in Kankakee, IL were he was treated and released. The juvenile was treated for an open fracture of the nasal bone and a laceration to his nose.
 
     On 6/22/23 an additional written statement was obtained from V2 Passenger 1, one of the occupants of vessel two (V2 Passenger 1 statement attached). 
 
     On 6/22/23 V1 Operator was issued a written warning for careless operation of a watercraft. 
 
     End of report.


BARDID: IL-2023-0070
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-06-25 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:30:00
State: IL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Illinois River
NearestCityTown: Grafton
County: Jersey
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel #2, owned by V2 Owner,  was docked in the courtesy visitor slip at Grafton Marina. Vessel #1, operated by V1 Operator, was entering the harbor. Vessel #1 stuck Vessel #2 while it sat unmanned in the slip. Damage was done to the aluminum sheet metal in the starboard aft area of the vessel. Operator of Vessel #1 claimed he did not know he struck the vessel with the bow pulpit portion of his vessel. He stated he thought he tapped the dock. Dockhands for Grafton Marina informed V2 Owner that the accident occurred. The Dockhand took pictures of the damage, and of Vessel #2- all attached to this report. V2 Owner was able to contact Vessel #1 operator the next day. V1 Operator exchanged information with V2 Owner, and informed him he would notify insurance to take care of the damages. I was informed of the boat accident on 6/27/23 after my regular days off. I began contacting those involved - V2 Owner and V1 Operator. Both parties cooperated during the investigation of the crash.


BARDID: IL-2023-0071
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:05:00
State: IL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Mississippi River
NearestCityTown: Andalusia
County: Rock Island
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Person departed vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person struck by propeller
RedactedNarrative:
On 7/4/2023 at approximately 7:05 PM, Operator was operating on the Mississippi River Pool 16 in the backwaters of Andalusia Island. Passengers 1 and 2 were passengers on the boat. Operator was an inexperienced operator. The boat ran aground and Passenger 1 jumped off the back of boat. The boat was not in neutral and Passenger 1 sustained injuries to his lower leg from the propeller while trying to push the boat. At approximately 7:10 PM, CPO 2 and I (CPO 1) stopped the boat in Andalusia Slough. Passenger 1 was in shock from his injuries. I operated their boat back to the launch at Centennial Park in Davenport, Iowa. Passenger 1 refused medical treatment on Illinois side. Passenger 1 was transported by relatives to Genesis Medical Center for treatment. Operator has a mandatory Rock Island court appearance.


BARDID: IL-2023-0073
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 10:55:00
State: IL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Sara
NearestCityTown: Effingham
County: Effingham
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
RedactedNarrative:
On July 4th, 2023 at approximately 10:55 AM, a Glastron GX 180 motorboat towing 2 skiers collided with the break wall at N Blue Point Trail, Effingham, IL 62401. Fire, EMS, Effingham Water authority, and Sheriffs Department personal arrived on scene and I was contacted at approximately 11:00 AM. I arrived at the scene at approximately 11:25 AM and spoke to witness. The land owner north of the accident location, Witness, was standing on his balcony and saw the accident happen. Witness heard the two skiers being towed yelling for the operator to change direction and let go of the towline shortly before the collision occured. Both skiers confirmed this on scene. EMS personel and Witness informed me that a female, Operator, appeared to be operating the Glastron and her friend, Passenger 1, was video taping the skiers prior to the accident. I met with Passenger 1 and Operator as St. Anthonys hospital in Effingham. Passenger 1 informed me that Operator had been watching the skiers with him prior to the collision. Operator admitted that she had been watching the skiers and only turned around after they left go of the towline. I also viewed the video taken just prior to the accident. Operator can be heard shouting instructions to the skiers and telling them to "bend their knees" multiple times prior to the recording ending.

On 7/15/23 I met with Operator and her father at their residence. I explained to Operator teh situation and issued her a written warning for careless operation.


BARDID: IL-2023-0074
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-10 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:33:00
State: IL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Fox River
NearestCityTown: McHenry
County: McHenry
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause2: Dam/lock
AccidentCause3: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
RedactedNarrative:
On July 10, 2023, at approximately 9:42pm, I (SGT 1) received a dispatch call from Illinois State Police in reference to a possible boat accident that occurred on the Fox River at the Stratton Lock and Dam, McHenry.  Lake County dispatch advised that they received an apple watch alert and heard people screaming in the background who were on the phone with 911. 
 
I arrived on scene a few minutes later.  There were several ambulances and rescue personnel already on scene and was informed that there were four passengers onboard at the time of the accident.  A white watercraft was situated approximately 30 feet south of the dam and occupants were being transported from their watercraft to the east shoreline in a small jon boat belonging to Fish Tales Concession.  Water levels are extremely shallow in that area and it appeared that the boat was beached.  The stern light was on and visible but there were no visible bow lights.
 
All four passengers were complaining of injuries and were each transported to various hospitals for evaluations.  Passenger 2 and Owner/ Passenger 1 were transported to the Northwestern Hospital in McHenry.  Operator was transported to Northwestern Medical in Woodstock.  Passenger 3 was transported to Good Shepherd in Barrington.
 
After speaking with the passengers onboard it was determined that Operator was the operator of the watercraft at the time of the accident.
 
When I questioned Operator about being the operator he stated that he had no idea who was driving and that it wasn''t him.  He became quite defensive and when I tried to check his eyes for Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus he would not follow my pen and kept diverting his eyes away.  I could smell the distinct odor of an alcoholic beverage on his breath and observed that his eyes were both glassy and bloodshot in appearance.
 
BruceSki''s marina was contacted about removing the watercraft and was advised that they would be unable to remove it until the following morning.
 
Identification was obtained for Operator through an driver''s license.  Operator became confrontational as I continued to ask about him operating the watercraft and would not answer any questions.  I followed the ambulance transporting Operator over to Woodstock hospital.  After taking an initial blood sample the charge nurse indicated that their was no alcohol in his system even though she indicated smelling it on his breath.  When she initially asked him about drug use that day Operator did not answer with a definitive "No" but skirted around the question.  
 
On July 11, 2023, at approximately 5:00am, I drove to the east side of the river, south of the dam, and observed that the stern light on the watercraft left overnight was still on but no bow lights.  I placed on my waders and waded across the shallow water to the boat where I took photographs, obtained registration and waterway information, checked navigational equipment, safety equipment, etc.  The Illinois registration displayed an expired sticker of 2017 but when checked through LEADS showed expired registration of 9/30/2021 and being registered to Owner/ Passenger 1.  The Fox Waterway sticker was expired 3/31/2019.  There were no bow lights on the boat and had exposed wires where it should be.  There was a functional fire extinguisher but I could not locate a sounding device, any wearable lifejackets, nor was there a Type IV throwable device.  There was a white cooler in the back of the boat with an assortment of alcoholic drinks, including: Truly, twisted tea, bud light aluminum bottles, etc.  There were 5 empty 12 ounce aluminum bottles of Bud Lite, 1 empty 12 ounce bottle Torpedo IPA, 2 empty 23.5 ounce cans of Jack Daniel''s Lemonade, 1 empty 12 ounce can on Leinekugal, 1 empty 24 ounce can of Twisted Tea, and 2 empty 12 ounce cans of Truly.


BARDID: IL-2023-0075
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:05:00
State: IL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Rock River
NearestCityTown: Oregon
County: Ogle
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Other
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentCause3: Operator inexperience
OtherAccidentCause: Passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
RedactedNarrative:
Summary:
I, CPO, on 07/16/2023, was dispatched to a boating incident on the Rock River. Upon arrival Ogle County Sherriff''s Office was on scene and notified me that there were two occupants at the dispatched location, and the rest of the occupants, operator, and vessel were located at the Lowden State Park Boat Ramp. 

I was notified that the injured individual was taken to a local hospital where CPO was enroute to meet with him. After getting written statements from the two occupants at the original scene location, I relocated to the Lowden State Park Boat Ramp to meet with the remaining occupants, operator, and vessel. An Ogle County Sherriff''s Officer was interviewing and holding them there until I arrived. Upon arrival, the vessel was already trailered and, in the parking-lot. I interviewed and took written statements from the remaining occupants and operator of the vessel. The operator showed no signs of being under the influence of any drugs or of being intoxicated. A boat safety inspection was completed. There were not any violations found with the vessel, however the operator did not have the proper boating education certificate needed to be able to operate the boat and was issued a citation. The individuals were released, and no further action or investigation was taken.


Individuals Involved: Operator; Location; Starboard Side Helm (Not wearing PFD)
Occupant (Uninjured); Location; Port-side passenger (Not wearing PFD)
Occupant (Uninjured); Location; Starboard stern (Not wearing PFD)
Occupant (Uninjured); Location; Cabin/Deck (Not wearing PFD)
Occupant (Uninjured); Location; Cabin/Deck (Wearing PFD)
Recreational Tuber; Location; Tube being pulled behind vessel (Wearing PFD)
Occupant (Injured); Location: Port-Stern (Not wearing PFD)
Vessel 1: 1978, 180HP, 20ft, Cruiser/Mercruiser

The Accident:
At approximately 4:30PM on 07/16/2023, vessel 1 was headed up stream on the Rock River.  The occupants were recreationally tubing. Subject fell off the tube. Operator ll operated vessel 1 to go pick up Subject1 and allow him to get back on the tube. 

At the same time occupant subject2 was located at the port-stern of vessel 1 holding the slack in the towrope for the tube so it did not get caught in the propeller in his right hand. As Subject1 got himself back on the tube, operator thought that they were good to continue tubing, not realizing the rope still in Subject2s right hand. 

When Operator started to engage the throttle on vessel 1, the towrope tightened around Subject2s righthand/fingers, pulling him into the water. At this time the remaining occupants screamed and Operator stopped the boat. 

Subject2 immediately got back in vessel 1; however, his index finger was fully amputated, partial amputation to his middle and ring finger, and tip injury to his pinky finger. A towel was placed around Subject2s hand and pressure was placed to try to control the bleeding. Subject1 was brought into vessel 1 with the tube and Operator operated vessel 1 to the nearest dock. The property owners assisted until EMT services arrived. Operator operated vessel 1 back to the boat launch in Lowden State Park, trailered, and parked vessel 1 in the parking lot. Ogle County Sheriff''s Office arrived on scene and began interviewing prior to my arrival at both locations. Subject2 was transferred to Swedish American Hospital in Rockford and then to UW Health University Hospital in Madison W...


BARDID: IL-2023-0076
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-17 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:50:00
State: IL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Channel Lake
NearestCityTown: Antioch
County: Lake
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On 07/18/23 at about 8:00 a.m. I, CPO 1, received an email from Sgt. 2 regarding a 07/17/23 boat accident on Channel Lake near Antioch, IL.  I told Sgt. 2 I would follow up on the email and contact the subjects involved in the accident.
 
At about 11:00 a.m., I met with V2 Operator, the complainant.  V2 Operator showed me the damage to his 1984 Skeeter boat.  The damage was confined to the cowling of the boat''s outboard motor.  I have attached pictures of the damage.  
 
V2 Operator said he was fishing, while anchored, on Channel Lake south of the channel into Lake Catherine. V2 Operator indicated it was about 8:50 p.m. and, as such, was not completely dark.  V2 Operator said the bow of his boat was facing West.  V2 Operator said he had his stern light illuminated as required, when another boat approached from the South.  V2 Operator told me he "hollered", waved his arms, and jumped up and down in his boat trying to get the attention of the other operator (later identified as V1 Operator).  V2 Operator indicated the other operator must have seen him at the last second and was able to swerve to the East.  However, the hull of V1 Operator's boat did hit the outboard cowling of V2 Operator's vessel; making a crack in the fiberglass of the cowling measuring about 6 inches.
 
V2 Operator said he yelled at V1 Operator and that V1 Operator was belligerent, at first.  V2 Operator said V1 Operator calmed down and was cooperative after the initial shock of the crash.  V2 Operator said he and V1 Operator exchanged information and V1 Operator then left the scene.  However, when V2 Operator tried to start his engine, he noticed it was not running smoothly.  V2 Operator said he returned to the launch at Musky Tales, a short distance away, and called V1 Operator.  V2 Operator then told V1 Operator he was going to file a police report. 
 
I took photos of the damage to V2 Operator's watercraft and have attached them to this report.
 
On 07/18/23 at about 2:00 p.m., I met V1 Operator at his residence.  I photographed the rub marks on V1 Operator's vessel caused by the impact with V2 Operator's outboard.  The photos are attached to this report.  I asked V1 Operator about the boat crash, and he confirmed the story V2 Operator told me.  V1 Operator also provided me with a written statement, which I have attached to this report.  In the statement, V1 Operator admits responsibility for the boat crash.  As such, I issued V1 Operator a written warning for Careless Operation of a Watercraft.  After issuing the written warning, I cleared the scene.  EOR


BARDID: IL-2023-0077
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-15 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:30:00
State: IL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Decatur
NearestCityTown: Decatur
County: Macon
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Improper anchoring
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessels 2 and 3 were tied up and anchored near shore on Lake Decatur.  Vessel 1 had been anchored but broke loose and began drifting towards Vessels 2 and 3.  The operator of Vessel 1 started the motor but was not able to avoid colliding with Vessels 2 and 3.  Vessel 1 became entangled in Vessel 2''s anchor line pulling Vessels 2 and 3 together.  Damage was either caused from a direct collision from Vessles 1 and 2 or Vessles 2 and 3 being pulled together as a result of the anchor line being tangled.


BARDID: IL-2023-0078
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-02 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:00:00
State: IL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Otter Lake
NearestCityTown: Girard
County: Macoupin
WaterConditions: Rough
HazardousWaters: Y
CongestedWaters: Y
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Congested waters
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel #1 was cruising Otter Lake on July 2, 2023. Vessel #1 was pulling a tube with 2 people on the tube (Passenger 2 and Passenger 1) when the vessel hit large wakes created by other boats. The lake was congested this date, and the lake had very choppy waters. Owner of the boat, Owner, said the boat just hit a wake at the right angle to capsize the boat. The passenger (Owner) of the boat and operator were ejected from the boat. Other boats in the area came to the aid of the capsized vessel and towed the boat to shore where it was flipped back over. Articles in the boat such as cell phones, cupholders, and any other items that were not secured were lost in the water. Estimated damage was over $2000. No injuries occurred as a result of the accident. The 4 subjects aboard the vessel : Owner, Operator, Passenger 2, and Passenger 1 did not need any medical atention due to the accident. The vessel had some minor damage.


BARDID: IL-2023-0079
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-29 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:38:00
State: IL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Apple Canyon Lake
NearestCityTown: Apple River
County: Jo Daviess
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On 07/29/23, at approximately 9:38 PM there was a boat accident at Apple Canyon Lake. Vessel 1 and Vessel 2 were traveling south on Apple Canyon Lake. Vessel 2 slowed down for an occupant to leave the vessel to urinate. Vessel 1 did not see Vessel 2 and impacted Vessel 2''s stern. Due to operator inattention, the Vessel 1 operator did not see Vessel 2''s stern light. Vessel 1 struck Vessel 2 causing impact. Vessel 1 was still in gear with the bow caught on top of Vessel 2''s motor. Vessel 1 was the at fault vessel. One of Vessel 2''s occupants was returning to the vessel via swim platform upon collision, causing her to re-enter the water. Vessel 1 improperly overtook Vessel 2 and operated carelessly when it struck Vessel 2. Both operators were impaired by alcohol and were arrested for operation under the influence.


BARDID: IL-2023-0080
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-08-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 23:00:00
State: IL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Shelbyville
NearestCityTown: Shelbyville
County: Shelby
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On 08/12/2023, at approximately 11:02PM, I, CPO 1, was contacted by Shelby County dispatch about a possible
boat accident. A camper at Lithia Springs campground heard a boat crash and several people yelling, the boat started up and headed South on Lake Shelbyville. City and County units checked the area for the vessel and any injured parties.

The vessel, a 1997 red and white Rinker bearing Illinois registration was located at 9th street boat ramp by a
Shelbville Police Officer. The operator, later identified as Operator, and his to passengers identified as Passenger 2 and Passenger 1 initially pulled away from the dock once they saw the Officer, but immediately turned around due to Passenger 1's injuries. Passenger 1 suffered a laceration to his buttocks and was transported to St. Johns Hospital in Springfield for surgery.

I arrived on scene at 11:55pm and talked with Operator. Operator stated he had fallen asleep and impacted shore in his vessel traveling 35-40 MPH. Operator and Passenger 1 were ejected from the vessel.

It was later determined that Operator fell asleep while his vessel was heading South East, struck a rock erosion structure on the port side of the vessel, sending the vessel into the air, and ejecting Operator and Passenger 1 from the vessel. Passenger 1 struck an object after being ejected causing his injuries. The vessel then struck a second rock erosion structure after the initial collision. Passenger 1 was sleeping in the front starboard side of the vessel at the time of the impact and Passenger 2 was sleeping along the rear seat of the vessel at the time of the impact. Operator and Passenger 1 swam back to the vessel and climbed inside. The accident occurred just North of campsite 71 at Lithia Springs Campground.

I ran Operator through Seated Field Sobriety Tests, and arrested Operator for careless operation and operating under the influence of alcohol, at 12:25pm. Operator initially
refused medical treatment but later complained of difficulty breathing. I contacted dispatch for an ambulance and Operator was transported to Good Shepard Hospital in Shelbyville.IL.

CPO 2, a level 2 boat accident investigator, documented the damage of the vessel as well as the accident location in the morning hours of 08/13/2023. Those photographs will be attached to the final report.


BARDID: IL-2023-0082
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-04-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:59:00
State: IL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Illinois River
NearestCityTown: Ottawa
County: La Salle
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Strong
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Weather
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
RedactedNarrative:
On 4/22/23 at approximately 15:59 PM 3 individuals in kayaks (2 in a tandem kayak 1 in individual kayak) fell into the Illinois River at river marker 232. The wind was blowing with windgusts up to 25mph causing waves on the river up to 3 feet. The air temperature was approximately 40 degrees. The individuals involved in the incident have previously signed liability forms stating that they all have watched the required educational video, accept all liability and risks involved with renting from Fit 4 Golf, inc. DBA Kayak Morris/Kayak Starved Rock/Kayak Starved Rock Campground. The individuals involved have been prior customers and have kayaked with this company previously.

While recreational paddling near the "Wide Waters" on the Illinois River, V1 Passenger and V1 Operator, on Vessel #1 Tandam Kayak, were tralveling down stream. As they were paddling the wind had caused their kayak to turn sideways. as their kayak was turning and they were attempting to control their vessel the 3 foot waves were causing them to struggle to control the kayak. One of the 3 foot waves caused both individuals to lose balance and start causing the kayak to tip over. Both individuals fell into the water and the kayak had capsized.

While also recreational paddling in that same area, V2 Operator witnessed the occupants of Vessel #1 go into the water. Upon witnessing V1 Passenger and V1 Operator, enter the water V2 Operator paddled to the area V1 Passenger and V1 Operator were in the water. As V2 Operator attempted to help V1 Passenger and V1 Operator out of the water the weight of V1 Passenger and V1 Operator on one side of the kayak started to tilt the kayak to the side. With the weight from V1 Passenger and V1 Operator along with the wind and waves V2 Operator was tipped over and he fell into the river as the kayak capsized.

All three occupants were pulled from the water by Witness 1 and Witness 2 (employee of rental buisness and paddling coach). V1 Passenger, V1 Operator and V2 Operator were in the water for 10 to 15 minutes. They were all three transported to OSF Ottawa, treated for hypothermia and released on the same day.

No damage to any property, or significant injuries.


BARDID: IL-2023-0084
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-08-06 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:27:00
State: IL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Pistakee Lake
NearestCityTown: Fox Lake
County: Lake
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Ignition of spilled fuel or vapor
AccidentEvent1: Fire/explosion (fuel)
AccidentEvent2: Person departed vessel
RedactedNarrative:
The driver stated that they were traveling SB just before the low bridge at IL Rt 12 when the engine exploded and immediately started a fire. All occupants of the boat immediately began jumping overboard to swim to safety. The boat continued traveling SB into Pistakee Lake in the channel and came to rest approx 100 yards past the bridge. All occupants were treated for minor burns at the scene. One person was transported via FLFPD to Condell Hospital for further treatment.


BARDID: IL-2023-0086
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-08-19 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:11:00
State: IL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Petite Lake
NearestCityTown: Lake Villa
County: Lake
WaterConditions: Choppy
CongestedWaters: Y
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentCause3: Congested waters
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Operator of V2 stated that V1 was moving east to west and struck his vessel (V2) on the port bow. Operator of V1 was transported to hospital by F.D. prior to our arrival.


BARDID: IL-2023-0089
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-09-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:15:00
State: IL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Rock River
NearestCityTown: Rockford
County: Winnebago
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Drug
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
RedactedNarrative:
On 9/3/2023 Unit 1 was going northbound on the Rock River on the east side of the river. Unit 1 started to turn towards the west shoreline to turn around and travel southbound. Unit 1 started to accelerate very quickly while turning southbound on the river and hit a tree about 20 feet from the shoreline causing the watercraft to go airborne and flip over ejecting the operator. 

Unit 1 was upside down on the west side of the Rock River. The operator got stuck on one of the cleats on the boat causing him to be stuck underwater. Other boat operators were able to get him unhooked from the cleats of the boat and bring him to shore.


BARDID: IL-2023-0091
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-09-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 08:25:00
State: IL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Michigan
NearestCityTown: Chicago
County: Cook
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Person departed vessel
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
RedactedNarrative:
This report summarizes a single vessel missing person accident. on 9/5/23 at approximately 0825 hours on a boat, two passengers left the vessel to swim in Lake Michigan. Subject1 stated that Subject2 went under the water after approximately two minutes of swimming. Subject1 was treading water for  approximately 20 minutes before being able to get onboard the boat. Operator was unaware that the two passengers voluntarily left the boat to swim. The boat was not anchored and was drifting at the time of
Subject2's disappearance. As of 1230 hours on 9/6/2023 Subject2 has yet to be recovered or located


BARDID: IL-2023-0092
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-08-12 00:00:00
State: IL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Miltmore Lake
NearestCityTown: Lake Villa
County: Lake
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Unit 1 and Unit 2 were operating PWC's on Miltmore Lake. Unit 1 was making circles at a rapid speed. Unit 2 was traveling straight and was struck by Unit 1. The operator of Unit 2 suffered injuries and was transported by ambulance to Condell Hospital. It is not known what direction the boats were traveling prior to the collision.


BARDID: IL-2023-0093
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-09-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:24:00
State: IL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Channel Lake
NearestCityTown: Antioch
County: Lake
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Unit 1 was traveling SW on Channel Lake. Unit 2 was traveling due East on Channel Lake. 

Unit 1 did not yield to unit 2 and collided into unit 2's port side, just to the Aft of mid-vessel with it's front starboard coroner. Both vessels came to rest, upright with both facing east. 

Unit 2 said unit 1 didnt stop as he was crossing in front of me and I even went into reverse to try to stop.


BARDID: IL-2023-0095
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-09-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 22:20:00
State: IL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Chicago River
NearestCityTown: Chicago
County: Cook
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On 09/27/2023 at 11:03AM, I, Conservation Police Officer, was forwarded an email from Cpt. regarding a Boat Accident Report that was submitted by a boat owner involved in an a incident with another vessel. 

The report indicated the boat incident occurred on 09/22/2023 at 10:20PM on the Chicago River by City Winery - 11 W. Riverwalk Chicago, IL. I contacted Operator2 and he advised his docked Sea Ray was struck by a Crest Pontoon boat while it was leaving the dock, no injuries reported. 

The pontoon boat put a hole in the swim platform and appeared to have bent the hydraulic swim platform. Wojcik estimated the damage at $10,000. He exchanged information with the boat owner, and advised me the owner was not the one operating at the time of the collision. I requested that he email me the photos of the damage, and additional information regarding the other boat 

owner/operator.
On 10/01/2023 at 3:30PM, I received the email with the photos of the damage and some of the information I requested, but did not receive the contact information for the owner of the pontoon boat.
On 10/03/2023, I emailed him back asking for the additional information he did not send.


BARDID: IL-2023-0096
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-08-05 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 03:00:00
State: IL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Bangs Lake
NearestCityTown: Wauconda
County: Lake
WaterConditions: Unknown
Wind: Unknown
Visibility: Unknown
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
AccidentEvent2: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On 8/5/23 I responded to a boat accident.  upon arrival I met with the owner of vessel 2 and the representative of the Harbor Club condos association. They both advised that a boat came speeding, tried turning and hit the pier and also vessel 2. The boat then drove away. The boat was rented from Wauconda Boat and by the time I went over to Wauconda Boat, all passengers had left.


BARDID: IL-2023-0098
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-06-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 21:46:00
State: IL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Michigan
NearestCityTown: Chicago
County: Cook
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentCause3: Restricted vision
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Capsizing
RedactedNarrative:
This report summarizes a single vessel accident that occurred on Lake Michigan near the South Shore Cultural Center on June 3, 2023 at approximately 21:46 hours. The owner/operator of the vessel while traveling southwest changed directions to travel southeast when he struck a submerged break wall. Operator then called for assistance from Chicago Marine Safety units. The vessel then capsized causing substantial damage in excess of $2000. 8 people were on board the vessel, no injuries reported. End of report.


BARDID: IL-2023-0099
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-01 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 08:30:00
State: IL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Mississippi River
NearestCityTown: Mozier
County: Calhoun
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: People on gunwale, bow, or transom
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person struck by propeller
RedactedNarrative:
On July 1st, 2023, I (CPO 1) was contacted by the Calhoun County Sheriff''s Department. They advised a boat accident with personal injury had occurred at Rip Rap Landing. I arrived on scene at approximately 9:22am. The following narrative is based on the interviews of Operator and Witness.

On the morning of July 1st, 2023, Operator and his wife, Passenger/Injured, launched a boat on the Mississippi River at Rip Rap Landing in northern Calhoun County. Operator was operating the boat while Injured was sitting on the bow. Neither Operator nor Injured were wearing a PFD (personal flotation device). They were heading upriver to Clarksville Island for fishing. Operator was operating outside the navigation channel near Coon and Carroll Islands. It should be noted that Operator has extensive knowledge of this section of the river, as he commercially fishes for personal consumption. However, the sandbar struck by Operator did not exist three years ago.

At approximately 8:30 am, while traveling at approximately 25 mph, Operator struck an underwater sandbar, causing him to be thrown onto the floor of the boat. Injured rolled forward off the bow of the boat into the shallow water. The boat continued moving forward, running over Injured. The propeller struck Injured's left leg below the knee and her right calf. The propeller left multiple deep lacerations to Injured's left leg. Operator shut the boat off and jumped into the shallow water to help Injured. Injured directed Operator to cut a rope and put it around her left leg as a tourniquet. The tourniquet was applied less than 5 minutes after the accident occurred. 

Witness, who was fishing several hundred yards away, heard the boat hit the underwater sandbar. Witness heard Operator ask if Injured was okay, then he heard Operator yell for help. Witness drove his boat over to Injured. Witness and Operator lifted Injured onto Witness's boat and called 911. Operator and Witness drove their boats to the Rip Rap Landing Boat Launch. 

A helicopter was immediately dispatched to the Rip Rap Landing parking lot. The Pleasant Hill Fire Department, Spring Creek Medical, Calhoun County Ambulance Service, Pike County EMS, North Calhoun Fire Department, and AirEvac responded to the scene.

Injured was flown to Mercy Hospital in St. Louis, MO. Injured's left leg was amputated above the knee at the hospital. However, she is otherwise expected to make a full recovery.

I made the decision not to request a blood draw or BAC (blood alcohol concentration) from Operator. This decision was based on the following: no alcohol was on the boat, all parties involved denied consuming alcohol or drugs, and Operator did not show indicators of impairment, including no horizontal gaze nystagmus.


BARDID: IL-2023-0100
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:20:00
State: IL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Michigan
NearestCityTown: Winnetka
County: Cook
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Other
OtherAccidentCause: Passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
AccidentEvent2: Person departed vessel
CoordinatesConfidence: C
RedactedNarrative:
On July 4th, 2023 at 1:20 P.M. vessel one was traveling north bound on Lake Michigan near Centennial Park in Winnetka, Illinois. Vessel one was traveling at idle speeds about 100 feet offshore when the four children in tow tipped the Nautica Innertube. 

All four children in the water were wearing coast guard approved life jackets. Subject1 observed his 5 year old daughter having a difficult time reaching the innertube. Subject1 voluntarily departed the stopped vessel in an effort to help his daughter. 

Subject1 was not wearing a personal floatation device and began to struggle. Operator noticed the kids struggling as well. He pulled his engine cut off lanyard and entered the water, leaving one person in operation of the vessel. Operator assisted the remaining children in the water back onto the innertube. Operator turned his attention to Subject1 who was beginning to display signs of physical distress and panic. Subject2, still in operation of the vessel, hailed a passing vessel to help assist Subject1 in the water. With the efforts of individuals on the passing vessel, and operator, the group was successful in assisting Subject1 back into the vessel he departed from. 

Aboard the assisting vessel was a doctor, who immediately began attempting C.P.R. on Subject1 who had taken in too much water. At this time, Officer of Winnetka Police had swam 100 feet out to the vessel and boarded. He and Dr. performed C.P.R. until the vessel was beached on centennial park beach and Winnetka Fire took over. Subject1 was transported to Evanston Hospital where at 1400 hours he was pronounced dead. Nurse notified medical examiner of the pronunciation. ME case number is #23-04043.

No other injuries were reported. The vessel was docked back at Wilmette Harbor.


BARDID: IL-2023-0102
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:05:00
State: IL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Michigan
NearestCityTown: Chicago
County: Cook
WaterConditions: Choppy
CongestedWaters: Y
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Tuesday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Congested waters
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
V2 was traveling South East toward Monroe Harbor at a cruising speed between 10-20mph. V1 was traveling West toward the Jardine Water Plant at speeds estimated between 25-30mph. V2 saw V1 heading toward them and immediately turned hard to starboard to avoid a collision. V1 struck V2 on the port stearn, puncturing a hole in corner of the swimdeck. V2 utilized the marine radio, channel 16, to report the accident. V2 was receiving alerts they were taking on water and were assisted back to Monroe harbor by towboat USA. V1 received major bow damage, causing V1 to take on water and become partially submerged. No injuries beyond basic first aid were reported. Damage estimates for V2 were $10,000. Damage estimate for V1 is a total loss.

Witness statements collected indicate V1 was attempting to jump the wake of V2 in congested waters. Coast Guard Auxilary were on scene to asssit V1 operator out of the water due to his vessel starting to sink.


BARDID: IL-2023-0103
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-21 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:30:00
State: IL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Fox River
NearestCityTown: McHenry
County: McHenry
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Excessive speed
AccidentCause2: Improper lookout
AccidentCause3: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
In summary, vessel identified as Bennington Pontoon was traveling into the dock area of Kief''s Reef restaurant. At approximately 1830h, the owner of Kief''s Reef observed the black and tan Bennington strike a docked and unoccupied Crest pontoon, heard the operator state "we''re out of here", back up and leave the area northbound. He called IDNR to report the incident and gave an accurate description of the fleeing vessel. The fleeing vessel was stopped at the McHenry Dam lock and positively identified because of its lacking registration numbers and red floating mat on board. The operator and passenger initially outright denied all accounts of the incident. The operator, now identified as V1 Operator, finally admitted to the collision and stated he didn''t realize the extent of the damage. The passenger outright denied making contact with another vessel the entire time. V1 Operator was issued 4 citations and assigned a McHenry County court date.


BARDID: IL-2023-0107
AVesselLoss: -1
Date: 2023-08-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:00:00
State: IL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Michigan
NearestCityTown: Chicago
County: Cook
WaterConditions: Rough
HazardousWaters: Y
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Friday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentCause2: Force of wake/wave
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Falls overboard
AccidentEvent3: Collision with fixed object
RedactedNarrative:
On August 10, 2023 at approximately 11:34 AM, I, CPO 1, receieved an email from CPO 2 about an accident on Lake Michigan involving a personal watercraft (PWC).  In the email, Operator and Passenger state that they rented a PWC from Next Wave Watersports (owned by Owner) on August 4, 2023 and the accident occurred at approximately 2:35 PM.

On August 31, 2023 at approximately 11:30 AM, I called Operator and questioned him about the accident.  Operator stated that he and Passenger were heading south on Lake Michicgan outside the breakwall approximately 1/2 mile Northeast of Navy Pier in Chicago..  Operator stated they were travelling approximately 5-10 miles per hour 20-30 feet from the break wall.  Operator stated that when he noticed a large wave coming toward them he released the throttle on the PWC.  The wave capsized the PWC causing the operator and passenger to fall off.  Operator stated that he cannot swim and Passenger assisted him to the breakwall.  Operator stated that he and Passenger were both wearing personal flotation devices.  They climed onto the breakwall and signalled for help.  The waves caused the PWC to continually crash into the rocks at the breakwall.  Operator stated that a towboat came and towed the jetski back to Diversey Harbor and Chicago Police Deparment rescued them from the breakwall.  They were taken to Diversey Harbor.

On August 31, 2023 at approximately 11:19 AM, I called Owner and he stated the PWC is totaled.

No enforcement action taken.


BARDID: IL-2023-0108
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-09-04 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 20:44:00
State: IL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Fox River
NearestCityTown: McHenry
County: McHenry
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Grounding
AccidentEvent2: Fall in vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On Monday, September 4, 2023, at approximately 9:25 pm, I (SGT 1) received a call regarding a boat accident that occurred on the Fox River, approximately 50 yards southeast of the Snuggery Roadhouse Restaurant in McHenry.

The operator and three passengers were traveling northbound on the Fox River and the river made a bend towards the northwest which the operator did not observe and instead continued traveling north and ran into the shoreline and guardrail off N. River Road, approximately 50 yards southeast of the Snuggery Restaurant, McHenry.  The two female passengers were transported to the Northwestern Hospital in McHenry for injuries sustained.
 
I approached the operator and owner of the watercraft, later identified as Operator and asked what had happened.  Operator stated they had been out on the water for several hours and were headed back to the upper lakes where they had launched from.  He stated that he was only traveling around 20 mph and due to it being dark he did not see the bend in the river and ran aground and into the guardrail.  When asked if he had been drinking, Operator stated "No. I have not had anything to drink."  However, Operator's eyes were both glassy and bloodshot in appearance and I could smell the strong odor of an alcoholic beverage on his breath.

Video taken from a nearby residence shows the pontoon boat traveling north on the Fox River around 8:44 pm and seconds later a loud crash could be heard to the north.  The pontoon had both its bow and stern lights illuminated and estimated speeds of 30mph.

Bruceski Marine arrived and transported the watercraft from the accident scene.
 
There was major front end damage to the pontoon boat and aluminum pontoons themselves, in addition to extensive damage to the guard rail off North River Road.  Damage estimate from the McHenry Township Road District was for $1,800 to repair damage incurred to the guard rail.


BARDID: IL-2023-0109
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-10-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:30:00
State: IL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Vermillion
NearestCityTown: Effingham
County: Effingham
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Fair
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
RedactedNarrative:
Operator of boat #1 was changing direction and did not see a dock on his starboard side. He damaged the starboard side of the watercraft from the bow approximately 4-6'. I searched the area 5 days after the accident occurred and could not find any damaged docks or sea walls. I contacted Effingham Water Authority and asked if anyone reported a boat accident and or reported damage to their property. EWA advised they did not receive any information or complaint of the boat accident.

I was advised of this accident as I was at Saint Anthony Memorial Hospital handling a hunter accident. The nurse advised me there was a person in one of the rooms who was injured from a boat accident at Lake Sara. I spoke with operator and he advised he hit a dock and didnt know where it occurred. The passenger in the boat advised me of a general area where he thought it occurred. At this point it is unfounded as to where the exact accident location took place.


BARDID: IL-2023-0110
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:53:00
State: IL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Catherine
NearestCityTown: Antioch
County: Lake
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Alcohol
AccidentEvent1: Person departed vessel
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
RedactedNarrative:
Vessel was drifting on the north side of Lake Catherine, Antioch Township. Subject had been consuming alcoholic beverages. Hejumped off the boat wearing pants and wool socks. He did not resurface. His body was located by Antioch Fire on 7/24/23 at 1330 hours in Lake Catherine
(N 42.29.279, W 08807.894).


BARDID: IL-2023-0111
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-09-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:39:00
State: IL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Dunn's Lake
NearestCityTown: Spring Grove
County: Lake
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Unit 1 said she was "riding" the wave that unit 2 was making. Unit 1 said unit 2 turned suddenly in-front of her. Unit 1 attempted to stop/avoid the crash. Unit 1 then struck the starboard side of unit 2 with it's bow. Unit 2 said she was doing circles in the lake, when unit 1 struck her. My BWC was activated.


BARDID: IL-2023-0112
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-10-30 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 11:00:00
State: IL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Fourth Lake Fox Lake
NearestCityTown: Lake Villa
County: Lake
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Falls overboard
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
RedactedNarrative:
On 10/30/2023 at approximately 11:00AM, waterfowl hunter went missing on Fourth Lake in Lake Villa. Operator1 was waterfowl hunting by himself when at approximately 1:43PM his hunting friend called 911 stating Operator1 watercraft was up against the cat tails approximately 250 yards east of the blind and Operator1 was nowhere to be found at this time. Lake Villa Fire Department and Lake County Sherrifs Office were first on scene. Lake Villa Fire Department stated the boat was found still in idle, with the hunting rifle cased and the gas can tipped over on the opposite side of the watercraft. Watercraft was not damaged at this time. I Conservation Police Officer was not notified of the incident till later that evening. When arriving on scene the following day the watercraft had already been towed along with the evidence taking from on board. Operator1 was still determined missing.


BARDID: IL-2023-0114
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-08 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:30:00
State: IL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Private Strip Mine Lake
NearestCityTown: Elmwood
County: Peoria
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Unknown
AccidentEvent1: Capsizing
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
CoordinatesConfidence: NC
RedactedNarrative:
This report summarizes a single vessel, double fatal boat accident (drowning of both the operator and passenger) which occurred on 07/08/2023, between 1300 to 1430 hours. The boating accident occurred on a private lake in Peoria County. 

At approximately 1430 hours, property owner noticed a small vessel capsized on his lake. Owner went to the north side of the lake to get a closer look at the vessel and discovered a male subject floating face down in the lake near the shoreline. Upon discovery Owner called 911 from his cell phone to notify Peoria County emergency personnel, who then responded to the scene.

This boating accident involved a 12'' aluminum Jon boat (vessel # 1) with 2 adult male occupants who were reported to be fishing. The vessel was powered by an electric trolling motor attached to the stern of the vessel. PFDs were not worn by either victim. The watercraft had no valid registration and no PFDs or boat safety equipment were located at the scene. 

On 07/08/2023, Peoria County emergency personnel recovered suspected drowning victim from the lake and initiated lifesaving measures with negative results. On the evening of 07/08/2023, the Peoria County Sheriff''s Office received information of a second male subject who was reported to have been fishing with victim. 

On the morning of 07/09/2023, emergency personnel from the Peoria County Sheriff''s Office and Peoria Fire Department Dive Team located and recovered a second male drowning victim, from the bottom of the lake near the location of the capsized vessel.

The Peoria County Coroner''s report documents the cause of death as drowning for both victims. End of report.


BARDID: IL-2023-0115
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-03 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:40:00
State: IL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Pistakee Lake
NearestCityTown: Fox Lake
County: Lake
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Excessive speed
AccidentCause3: Improper lookout
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
Unit 2 Just left the "No wake Channel" SW of Rt 12 Bridge and made a left turn towards Pistakee Lake.  Unit 1 was coming North from Pistakee Lake at a high rate of speed (according with an independant witness) failed to reduce speed and crossed the path of unit 2.  Unit 1 struck Unit 2 at the tip of the right pontoon with the starboard side of unit 1.
Both units remained floatable and drivable.  No injuries deported by occupants of two units.  No tow nor EMS needed.  My BWC was recording, I did not review the video.


BARDID: IL-2023-0116
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-08-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:28:00
State: IL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Illinois River
NearestCityTown: Marseilles
County: La Salle
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Machinery failure
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
MachineryFailure: Shift
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person struck by vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On 08/20/2023 at approximately 7:20 PM, V1 Operator backed into two PWCs, owned by V3 Owner and V2 Operator, at the City Boat Launch in Marseilles. One of the PWCs was occupied by V2 Operator at the time of the collision. I was dispatched to the scene at approximately 7:28 PM.

V1 Operator's wife, Witness 1, was using a rope to hold onto their vessel positioned upstream at the tip of the eastern most dock on the ramp whilst V1 Operator went to retreive their truck and trailer from the parking lot. V2 Operator stated V1 Operator was visibly upset at his wife upon his return because of scrateches on the side of their vessel. V2 Operator stated additonally that V1 Operator entered his boat and shifted into reverse and collided with him and his PWC, as well as V3 Owner's PWC that he was holding onto at the tip of the far west dock. V2 Operator stated that the stern of V1 Operator's boat pushed up onto his PWC and pushed him overboard, pinning his right leg between his PWC and the rip rap bank.

V3 Owner was retrieving the truck and trailer for his PWC and stated the only thing he heard was commotion at the boat ramp and saw a large cloud of exhaust from V1 Operator's vessel. Witness 1 stated she was not on V1 Operator's boat and turned when she heard noise behind her and saw that V1 Operator had collided with the two PWCs. She stated she left and emergency services was contacted. 

Upon interview, V1 Operator admitted fault and stated that he could not get his boat to shift out of reverse before it struck the two PWCs. V2 Operator was the only individual that was injured from the collision and suffered lacerations to his right leg and minor scrapes to his left leg. He refused medical attention and tranport from EMS. V2 Operator's PWC suffered multiple scrapes to the hull as well as a puncture through the hull. V3 Owner's PWC suffered cosmetic damage to the hull. V1 Operator's vessel had damage to the propeller, exhaust, and cracks in the stern swim platform.

CPO 2 and I collected all of the vessel information, took photgraphs, and gathered statements from witnesses and individuals involved and departed the scene at approximately 8:22 PM.


BARDID: IL-2023-0117
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-22 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 17:57:00
State: IL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Nippersink Lake
NearestCityTown: Fox Lake
County: Lake
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inexperience
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
RedactedNarrative:
Pontoon heading south in the no-wake of Nippersink when the super structure of the boat collided with the rail road bridge causing moderate damage.


BARDID: IL-2023-0118
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-08-19 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:30:00
State: IL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Marie
NearestCityTown: Antioch
County: Lake
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentEvent1: Collision with fixed object
RedactedNarrative:
Driver 1 stated that she had just arrived at location and was turning around to dock when she accidentally pushed on the throttle and struck the pier.  A section of the pier broke loose which then struck boat #2 and broke off a bimini cover bar that was screwed in.  The property owner of Sandbar Bar and Grill was notified and given a copy of the report information for follow-up.


BARDID: IL-2023-0119
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-04-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 13:49:00
State: IL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Mississippi River
NearestCityTown: East Cape Girardeau
County: Union
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Wednesday
AccidentCause1: Hull failure
AccidentCause2: Machinery failure
MachineryFailure: Steering
AccidentEvent1: Collision with submerged object
AccidentEvent2: Flooding/swamping
RedactedNarrative:
On 4/13/2023 I, CPO 1, was contacted by Missouri Highway Patrol Corporal 2.  He stated that on 4/12/23 a 1973 tolleycraft was trvelling Northbound on the Mississippi River, near mile marker 67.2, approximately 9 miles north of Cape Girardeau.  At 1:45 pm the boat struck a submerged object and started taking on water.  The operator drove the boat to Cape Quarry in Missiouri.  The operator and his wife, passenger, safely made it to shore.  The boat had damage to the prop and the engine room was filling with water.  Employees at the quarry pumped the water out of the boat.  
On 4/1323 CPL 2 stated that the owner requested they move the boat upstream for repairs.  When they attempted to go upstream the boat lost steering and was free floating down the channel.  I spoke with Operator, on the phone, and talked him to the nearest shore.  They were able to get the boat back to the quarry and all passenger safely to shore.
I attached Corporal 2's report.


BARDID: IL-2023-0121
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-07-16 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 18:30:00
State: IL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Michigan
NearestCityTown: chicago
County: Cook
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
AccidentEvent2: Person ejected from vessel
AccidentEvent3: Person struck by vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On 07/16/23 at approximately 6:30pm near the Calumet Park Boat Launch area, V2 Operator was riding his wave runner (traveling East) when another boat operated by V1 Operator came towards him FROM THE North traveling South.  To avoid a head on collision, V2 Operator turned his wave runner to the right and was struck on his left side having the back of his head and left knee hit the boat ejecting him from the wave runner.   After the incident occurred, another wave runner towed him to shore.  Chicago Police showed and documented the incident with Officer 1.  V2 Operator was taken to the hospital and later released with a neck and knee brace.  V1 Operator will be cited for not giving way to a vessel that is coming from the Starboard side (625 ILCS 45/5-13 B(1)) and V2 Operator will be cited for not having an boater''s safety card (625 ILCS 45/5-18).  Both operators will receive Written Warnings for failure to transfer ownership within 15 days of purchase (625 ILCS 45/3-5).


BARDID: IL-2023-0123
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-08-12 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 19:01:00
State: IL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Chicago River
NearestCityTown: Chicago
County: Cook
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
This report summarizes a two vessel property damage accident that occurred on the north side of the Chicago River between the Clark Street Bridge and Dearborn Street Bridge near Pizzeria Portofino in Chicago, Illinois.  The operator of vessel 1 was attempting to dock in front of Pizzeria Portofino and struck the rear of vessel 2, causing damages in excess of $2,000.  Vessel 2 was docked when it was struck.  No injuries reported.  End of report.


BARDID: IL-2023-0124
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-08-19 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 15:48:00
State: IL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Lake Michigan
NearestCityTown: Chicago
County: Cook
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Saturday
AccidentCause1: Operator inattention
AccidentCause2: Navigation rules violation
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On 8/19/2023 at approximately 3:48 pm vessel #1 was pulling in to dock his boat between D dock and E dock.  Vessel #2 was docked getting gas at the end of D dock.  Vessel #1 stated it was very windy out and the wind pushed him too far North causing the anchor of his boat to strike Vessel #2''s front window.  The window was shattered due to Vessel #1''s anchor hitting it.  The owner/ operator of Vessel #2 stated that Vessel #1 was coming in too fast and could not control his boat due to the close quarter environment which caused the accident.

After conducting my investigation I have confirmed the incident that took place on 8/19/2023 at approximately 3:48 pm.  Vessel #2 was docked at the end of D Dock in Dusable Harbor getting gas.  At approximately 3:48 pm vessel #1 was coming out of C Dock and attempting to make a "C" turn around vessel #2.  Vessel #2 was facing South while vessel #1 was going East bound before making the "C" turn. While attempting the turn vessel #1 got too close to vessel #2 and the anchor on the bow of vessel #1 struck the front window of the stationary vessel #2 and shattered the window.  I was notified of the incident a few days later and reached out to both operators to find out what had happened.  I spoke to both operators to get each side of the story and both sides had a lot of similarities.  After conducting most of the investigation I asked V2 Operator, operator/owner of vessel #2, how much she would estimate the damages to be.  She stated she would estimate the damages to be around 6 thousand dollars.  After a period of time I reached back out to V2 Operator to get a final estimate of the damages of the boat and she stated nowhere around the area does a window repair for this specific window.  She stated it was a specialty made window that was made with the boat.  She found a place that would do it down in Miami, Florida for an estimated 15 thousand dollars.  I had V2 Operator send me pictures of the damages.


BARDID: IL-2023-0126
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-08-14 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 16:03:00
State: IL
NameOfBodyOfWater: East Fork Lake
NearestCityTown: Olney
County: Richland
WaterConditions: Choppy
Wind: Moderate
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Monday
AccidentCause1: Other
AccidentCause2: Operator inattention
AccidentCause3: Improper lookout
OtherAccidentCause: Passenger/skier behavior
AccidentEvent1: Skier mishap
CoordinatesConfidence: C
RedactedNarrative:
On August 14, 2023 at approximately 4:03PM a 911 call came through to Richland County dispatch in regards to a boating accident. Operator stated that she was operating the watercraft (pontoon) between 10-15 mph while her husband and 11 year old great-granddaughter were on the tube she was towing. 

While tubing, the tow rope broke and the tube disconnected causing both subjects to fall into the water. It was noted that Tuber1 was wearing a life jacket but Tuber2 was not. When Operator noticed what had occurred, Tuber1 was screaming frantically in the water but Tuber2 did not resurface and was not seen again. 

Operator turned the watercraft around and drove over to tuber1 to help her on the boat. Operator was not able to lift her into the boat by herself, so nearby fisherman came and assisted her. Richland County Sheriff Deputy arrived on scene, boarded the boat, and drove Operator and Tuber1 across the lake to their residence while waiting for assisting agencies. 

At approximately 4:10PM I, CPO, was notified of the incident by CPO and arrived on scene at approximately 4:31PM. Upon my arrival, Olney Fire Dept., Olney Police Dept., and Richland County Sheriff''s Dept. were on scene with boats already on the water looking for the missing subject. Shortly after, CPO and Vincennes Dive Rescue Team arrived on scene with boats and sonar imaging to begin scanning the area of interest. CPO''s, Sergeant, and Effingham Dive Rescue team also arrived on scene to assist. 

On August 16, 2023 the search resumed at sunrise.  Jasper County EMA and Robinson Police Department deployed drones and began an aerial search of the lake.  CPOs began searching with the towfish and CPOs searched with side scan sonar.  I arrived on scene at approximately 1:00PM, and I received information that CPO''s had found a target at approximately 11:30am approximately a quarter mile west of the location the incident was reported using the towfish. The Crawford County Dive and Rescue Team were called to dive on the target. At approximately 1:28PM, the dive team arrived on scene and CPO and I escorted them to the marked location. The divers recovered the body a short time later and transported it to the boat ramp. We headed back the boat ramp with the dive team at approximately 2:45PM, where we were met by an ambulance and the Richland County Coroner.

On 08/17/2023 at approximately 8:00AM CPO witnessed the autopsy of Tuber2. There were no signs of physical injury to the body or any internal issues that would have caused the subject to drown other than taking in a large quantity of water.


BARDID: IL-2023-0127
AVesselLoss: 0
Date: 2023-08-20 00:00:00
Time: 1899-12-30 14:52:00
State: IL
NameOfBodyOfWater: Carlyle Lake
NearestCityTown: Carlyle
County: Clinton
WaterConditions: Calm
Wind: Light
Visibility: Good
DayofWeek: Sunday
AccidentCause1: Sharp turn
AccidentEvent1: Collision with recreational vessel
RedactedNarrative:
On 08/20/2023 at approximately 2:52pm Witness 1 was on the north dock of the Carlyle Lake West Access marina.  He heard a loud noise from the middle dock.  He observed a  24'' white Shappral operated by V1 Operator with one male and one female passenger.  V1 Operator was pulling into the slip on the north side of the south dock.  He noticed the tall mast on the Hunter sail boat in next slip on the center dock was moving side to side.  The Hunter sail boat was directly behind the white shappral.  V1 Operator and her two passengers tied off in the slip and left the marina.  Witness 1 suspected V1 Operator's watercraft might have hit the Hunter sail boat and contacted the harbor master, Witness 2.  Witness 2 and Witness 1 checked for damage on both watercraft.  A 1inch notch of fiberglass was missing from the front bow on the Hunter sail boat.
 
On 08/20/2023 at approximately 6:30pm I, CPO 1, met Witness 2 at his harbor office.  I received video footage of the incident along with contact information for both watercraft owners.  V1 Operator is the owner of the 24'' Shappral and V2 Owner is the owner of the Hunter sail boat. V1 Operator admitted to making contact with the Hunter sail boat.  She did not report the incident because she and her passengers (Passengers 1 and 2) did not notice any damage to her watercraft or to the Hunter sail boat.     
 
The 24'' Shappral operated by V1 Operator struck the moored 33'' Hunter sail boat in the Carlyle Lake West Access Marina.  V1 Operator was attempting to pull her 24'' Shappral into slip on the north side of the center dock.  She was unable to put her watercraft in the slip on the first attempt.  She repositioned her watercraft in reverse and then back to neutral.  V1 Operator's watercraft while in neutral continued to float back almost making contact with the bow of a moored 33'' Hunter Sail Boat.  V1 Operator placed the watercraft throttle forward while the wheel was turned to the left.  The stern of her watercraft spun starboard.  The end of the ladder on the swim platform from V1 Operator's watercraft, struck the tip of the bow on the Hunter sailboat from port to starboard.
On 08/25/2023 V1 Operator's boat insurance issued a $2,500.00 check to Witness 2 for the repair of the Hunter sail boat.


