OPERATOR WAS ATTEMPTING TO START THE PWC FROM SHORE WHEN IT EXPLODED, LAUNCHING THE OPERATOR APPROXIMATELY 15-20 FEET CAUSING POSSIBLE BACK, HIP AND RIB INJURIES.  INSPECTION OF THE PWC REVEALED A LOOSE CABLE CONNECTION ON THE NEGATIVE BATTERY POST WHICH COULD HAVE CAUSED AN ELECTRICAL SPARK UPON ACTIVATING THE STARTER CAUSING IGNITION OF FUEL VAPORS.  IT IS UNKNOWN AT THIS TIME THE SOURCE OF THE SPILLED FUEL.
HOT SPRINGS                   