Operator and occupants got into V1 while it was moored in front of their cabin.  Operator stated he turned the blowers on for approx. 5 minutes and when he started the motor, the cover of the motor blew off.  Everyone jumped out and swam for shore.  V1 burned until a Nabholtz Fire Boat arrived and put fire out.  V1 was a total loss.  The owner of V1 had just had $14,000 worth of work done to the boat.

Due to extent of damage and loss (sunk) of some items, investigator was unable to determine exact cause of the explosion and fire; but it is suspected possible bare spark plug wires or faulty distributor cap contributed to spark.  Other than operator, there are no other witnesses that can confirm he in fact turned on the blowers as stated.
EUREKA SPRINGS                