V1 launched with operator and three passengers and was 100 yards from the boat ramp on Lake No. 1 when the carburetor backfired and ignited an existing fuel leak.  Operator and 3 passengers jumped out of the vessel and into the water.  A passing boat picked up the operator and passengers.  Two PWC's used their fire extinguishers to try to put out the fire.  The burning vessel drifted toward the dam.  The Shawnee Fire Dept. put out the fire upon their arrival.  No injuries.  Vessel was total loss.
Shawnee                       