On August 4, 2013 at approximately 1200 hrs Operator was on his way to fish approximately 9 miles offshore St. Lucie Inlet on his vessel "Transition". As he was approaching his fishing spot he smelt a strong odor of diesel fuel and smoke that appeared to be coming from the engine compartment which was located inside the cabin in the floor. He put his vessel in neutral so he could check the engine compartment. When he opened the hatch he saw flames, smoke and diesel fuel spurting from one of the hoses leading to the fuel filter. 

Due to the amount of smoke that filled the cabin Operator had to exit. He went to the stern of the boat where he put a life jacket on. He was also trying to wave down a nearby vessel and while doing so there was a small explosion in the cabin. Once that happen Operator decided that it was no longer safe to stay on his vessel so he jumped over board. 

A few minutes later a good samaritan picked Operator up out of the water. Coast Guard was notified through the VHF radio. Sea Tow and Tow-Boat also responded. Due to the distance offshore and the circumstances the salvage of the vessel was impossible. The vessel burnt to the waterline before sinking. 

After making sure Operator was ok and in no need of medical attention I, Officer gave Operator a ride back to his dock and vehicle in Rocky Point. 

On August 9, 2013 I went to Operator's residence to get a witness statement. I also was able to get a detailed list of the property that was onboard the vessel "Transition" at the time the fire occurred.
PORT SALERNO