Vessel 1 was launched and, after clearing the West Harbor Entrance, the Operator went down to start the port motor (the other Occupant on board Vessel 1 took the helm at this time).  The Operator was able to get the port motor started twice, but each time the port motor would subsequently stall out.  On the Operator's third try to restart the port motor the motor backfired and caught the engine compartment on fire.  The Operator used a fire extinguisher and thought he had successfully extinguished the fire.  The Operator then went back above deck to operate Vessel 1 at which time the Occupant on board noted that there was still black smoke coming from the cabin area.  The Operator tried to re-enter the cabin but the smoke was too thick and he then called 911.  The Operator closed the cabin doors, putting the fire out, and the two Occupants on board were retrieved by the USCG who arrived on scene.
Port Clinton                  