Vessel 1, running a charter with six persons on board, had engine problems and would not start.  Vessel 2, also running a charter with six persons on board, was in the process of towing Vessel 1 back to shore when the incident occured.  The Operator of Vessel 2, with Vessel 1 in tow, left the helm of Vessel 2 and let out additional tow line.  While the Operator of Vessel 2 was away from the helm, Vessel 2 got too close to the west side of the river (to starboard of Vessel 2) and almost struck Vessel 3 which was docked at the Waterworks Dock to the starboard of Vessel 2.  Although the Operator of Vessel 2 was able to swerve to port to avoid a collision between Vessel 2 and Vessel 3, as a result of the swerve Vessel 1 swung out to starboard and struck Vessel 3 causing extensive damage to Vessel 3.  Vessel 2 and Vessel 1 then left the scene without stopping as required by law.
Vermilion                     