On 04/04/09 at approximately 2130 hrs., this writer was contacted by Lt in reference to a boat accident / missing person's investigation in the Nanticoke River ( Wicomico County). This writer made contact with Sgt to find out any additional information; and also to provide him with any assistance in the incident. He indicated that he spoke with the witnesses about the incident. In addition, he stated that he was checking several local boat ramp areas for a possible vehicle & boat trailer to confirm the identity of the missing individuals from identification items located in a camouflage backpack that was found floating in the river by rescue personnel.

On 4/5/09, this writer met with Sgt. at the witness's shorefront residence on the Nanticoke River to retrieve the backpack and its' contents; and to obtain any additional information on this incident. In addition, this writer processed, photographed, and completed an inventory form of the items on the vessel (DL 5504 AA) before it was removed from the location and transported to a secured area for storage at the Johnson Regional Office during this investigation. Next, this writer spoke with the witnesses about the incident. They stated at approximately 1900 hrs. on 4/4/09 that they were sitting in their recreation room looking out their window towards the Vienna Bridge. They can see quite a distance down the river. they both saw what appears to be spray coming from a boat heading up river (towards Sharptown). as the boat began to come better into view, it turned sharply to the side and they could tell it was a small fishing boat. It suddenly hit a wave and partiallytilted over such that they could see the boat's bottom and ejecting what appeared to be one person and maybe a dog. It happened so quickly; and was at a distance, so they could only see a quick profile. Thus not being sure whether it was a dog or second person being thrown overboard. witness immediately tried to pull their kayak in the water to see if he could paddle out to the victims while his wife  called 911. He saw no individuals swimming or any sign of person in distress. He also summoned one additional kayaker and another passing boat to look for any survivors, with negative results.
Mardela Springs               