On the night of August 9, 2012 three people were in LA 5097 EH in Quarantine Bay located in Plaquemines Parish.  At 10:00 p.m. while running to fish another rig Operator stated he hit a large unlit wellhead that was in the area.  He then stated the vessel flipped ejecting all three men out of the boat.  The three men then climbed onto the wellhead and waited for help.  Injuries consisted of operator cutting his left knee, and occupant having a large laceration in his head.  Operator refused immediate medical attention according to EMS. occupant was transported to Ochsner Hospital where he was treated.  The vessel is considered a total loss.  Investigating agent went to the well and photographed the vessel which was turned over in the water.  Operator did state however that he wanted to get the boat salvaged so he could see about repairs.

The foreman for the oil field operated by Cox Oil, met us on scene and stated the well was lit, and he was sending divers down to see if the light fell off.  During initial investigation no light was observed on the well.  He also made comments about the group illegally fishing off of a platform above from the accident location, which he stated is a federal offense and the company was probably going to pursue the matter because of problems in the past.
NOTE:Due to outstanding warrants out of Jefferson and Plaquemines parishes both were arrested by PPSP and transported by deputies.

Investigation was halted because of Hurricane Isaac but investigators have been in contact with the safety coordinator. He emailed pictures, which are attached to this report showing the recovery of the light from the water.

BURAS                         