Operator was pulling tubers with his 18' Sea Ray open motorboat in Swift Reservoir.  When he stopped the boat to change tubers said he smelled gas and the engine "blew up". Other boaters in the area described a large "pop" and saw Operator's boat on fire.  Within 30 seconds the boat was almost 50% aflame and all passengers including the operator exited the boat by jumping in the water.  They were all wearing lifejackets and were picked up by other boaters in the area.  One witness noted that there was a large 10 foot by 1 foot 'torch' of flame that appeared from the engine but there was no explosion.  After about 2-3 minutes the boat was completely engulfed by the fire.
Operator suffered burns to his arms and head that required admission to the hospital, his son had a small burn on his foot that did not require treatment beyond first aid.  Damages to gear was estimated at $1,000 and the boat was valued at $1,000.00.
Cougar                        