On 06/04/2011 at approximately 2:21 P.M., I was on patrol at Mascoutin State Recreational Area near the Mascoutin Boat Launch.  At this time I observed a watercraft which was attempting to launch from the trailer. I continued my patrol and looked back a short time later and saw the watercraft fully engulfed by flames. I contacted the Illinois State Police Telecommunications in Pontiac, IL and notified them of the situation. I also requested the local fire department and EMS. I then responded to the area of the boat docks at Mascoutin Basin and located the subjects who had been on the watercraft at the time the fire started. Operator and Passenger stated they were not injured. However, Passenger advised me he had minor burns on his lower legs, ankles and feet. I advised Operator and Passenger EMS was en route and they should be checked out. I then retrieved burn cream from my first aid kit and provided it to passenger. 

Both Passenger and Operator stated Operator was attempting to launch the boat from the trailer. Operator stated she started the motor and attempted to put the boat in reverse. Operator said when she shifted the boat into reverse, the engine died. Operator said she turned the key and attempted to restart the motor. At this time she heard a loud "Pop." Passenger opened the back hatch, where he had been sitting, to find the engine compartment fully engulfed in flames. Victim said he attempted to use a fire extinguisher to put out the fire but he was unsuccessful. Operator and Passenger both jumped overboard to escape the watercraft and fire. 

EMS arrived and Operator and Passenger were treated and released by EMS. Both Operator and Passenger refused to be transported by EMS. Clinton Fire Department arrived and extinguised the fire on board the watercraft. The watercraft was a complete loss due to the damage of the fire. 

Once the fire was extinguished, the boat was loaded back on the trailer and transported to Mascoutin State Recreational Area''s main office and secured at the facility for further investigation.
Clinton                       