On Sunday, May 19, 2013, at approximately 1707 hrs, I received a call from FWC Dispatch in reference to a vessel colliding with another vessel at Crandon boat ramp. While leaving the docking area V1 struck V2 (with the right stern corner in V2's port side hull. V1 left the scene of the accident after impact. V2 reported the accident to FWC. No injuries were reported. Operator1 stated “I was waiting to dock my boat in their spot, and when they left they reversed very hard any hit my boat. They hit my boat and took off, when I docked, I could not find them anywhere”. Operator1 stated there were six white young males in a small Jon boat which struck his vessel. I conducted a boating safety check of Operator1's vessel and found he was in compliance. Operator1 was issued a case card. Approximately 1 hour after I left Crandon boat ramp, Miami-Dade Police located two individuals at Crandon boat ramp in a green Jon boat which fit the description. Upon my arrival, Miami-Dade Police Department Officers also located the other three individuals which were part of the incident. Operator2 was read his Miranda rights from a prepared text. Operator2 admitted to being the operator of the vessel at the time of the accident. Operator2 stated “It was only a small bump, so I left.” He also admitted to the other individuals being on his vessel. Operator2 was charged with leaving the scene of an accident (failure to report boating accident over $2000), insufficient number PFD's, registration number not properly displayed, and operation of vessel without complying with boater education law.
KEY BISCAYNE