Vessel 1 had been unloaded from its trailer and was in the water near the launch ramp at the time of the incident.  The Operator and three Occupants entered Vessel 1, however, the Operator did not use the blower/ventilation system prior to trying to start the engine.  As the Operator turned the ignition key, the engine on Vessel 1 turned over several times (about 5 seconds) without starting; at this point an explosion occurred in the stern of Vessel 1 near the engine.  One of the Occupants near the explosion suffered first and second degree burns on her lower legs, thighs, and lower back.  A second Occupant was thrown into the air by the force of the explosion, landing back in the boat and sustaining an injured heel and a bruised right ankle.  The remaining Occupant and the Operator did not suffer any injury as a result of the incident.  The Operator used a fire extinguisher to put out the fire; the two injured parties were transported to the hospital for treatment of their injuries.
Lore City                     