Three subjects went out boating and noticed the engine was not running properly. They also noticed water on the floor of the vessel. Subjects brought the vessel back to the dock to see if they could fix it and let the bilge pump out the water. They left the boat and came back in maybe 10-15 mins. They noticed more water. They then decided to load up the vessel. Operator was driving the boat from the dock to the ramp, while the other two went to get the truck/trailer. Operator noticed the stern sitting lower and lower in the water. Shortly afterward the engine stalled and the stern went below the water and the vessel started sinking, stern first. The other two subjects were backing the trailer down the ramp and could only stand and watch. Operator first climbed onto the bow of the vessel, then onto the bottom after the vessel rolled over. After a short period another vessel came over and picked him up and brought him to shore. When Sgt and I arrived, the three subjects associated with this vessel, Russell Park officers and several bystanders were already there. The plug was in the vessel. My opinion the water entered the vessel through the rubber boot surrounding the steering cable & wires. The rubber boot was torn.
Elberton                      