Vessel #1 was purchased by the Owner/Operator two weeks prior to the incident and had launched Vessel #1 approximately one week prior to the incident.  On the date of the incident, the Operator arrived at the dock to find Vessel #1 with the batteries turned off and water in the engine compartment almost to the top of the batteries.  The Operator turned on the batteries, pumped out the engine compartment, and consulted with a mechanic who stated that it was acceptable to take the vessel out on the lake.  While in route from the Rocky River to the Cuyahoga River, the Operator noted that the engine sounded strange.  The Operator raised the engine hatch and discovered water up to the bottom of the batteries with both bilge pumps running.  The Operator then attempted to pilot Vessel #1 back to dock, however, just east of that location on the Rocky River Vessel #1 lost all power.  The Operator contacted the Coast Guard for assistance, however, prior to their arrival, the Operator and Passengers aboard Vessel #1 were taken aboard another Good Samraitan vessel in the area.  The Operator and Passengers were taken to Emerald Necklace Marina, while Vessel #1 drifted west and partially grounded/sank.  After towing and de-watering Vessel #1 it was discoverd that there was no plug in the boat, although the Operator indicated that he remembered putting it in previously.
Rocky River                   