RedactedNarrative: On the ahove date NJSP MSB Atlantic City Troopers were detailed to a capsized vessel in the Absecon Channel in Atlantic City, Atlantic County. Upon arrival I observed Vessel 1, a 20' Bayliner Trophy 2002 cuddy cabin with an outboard motor bearing NJ registration, capsized with its stern resting on the bay bottom while its bow was still afloat. Four survivors, including Operator 1 and Victim 2, were identified as having been on board at the time of the accident and indicated that fifth person had become trapped under the vessel. US Coast Guard personnel on Scene as well as a bystander had attempted to rescue the entrapped woman but were unsuccessful. Additionally a USCG Helicopter deployed a rescue swimmer who cut into the hull, but was unable to locate the victim.
  
  Operator 1 stated in effect that while at anchor Vessel 1 began taking on water for an unknown reason. According to Operator 1, he attempted to return to the boat ramp at Faunce Landing where he had launched, While enroute, the transom of the vessel was swamped and the vessel subsequently capsized. Operator 1, Victim 2, and two other passengers were thrown clear of the vessel and into the water, where they were subsequently rescued by passing boaters. Victim 1 was swept under the boat and trapped against the bay floor. Victim 2, the other two passengers, and two witnesses were also formally interviewed and corroborated Operator 1 's account, as well as provided additional details, please refer to the Investigation Report for complete details regarding those interviews.
  
  Investigation revealed that poor upkeep and improper weight distribution caused Vessel 1 to begin taking on water while at anchor. Specifically it was found that multiple holes had been drilled into the fish wells and self bailing channels in the deck. This allowed water into the bilge rather than flowing out the transom mounted scuppers. Additionally the transom had numerous screw holes that had not been properly filled with marine caulk, the motor mounting bolts had not been properly caulked, and the transom mounted scupper flappes had hardened in the open position. 
  
  Interviews revealed that all five persons on board were situated on the aft deck, and the vessels fuel tank, located under the aft deck, was filled to capacity. These factors combined to allow the aft deck to begin flooding, which drained into the bilge and Vessel l's bilge pump was unable to handle the volume of water. Operator 1 pulled Vessel l's anchor and attempted to return to Faunce Landing, however witnesses indicated that he was panicked and actually headed toward Mankiller Bay. Vessel 1 was quickly overcome by the added weight of the water, which contributed to transverse instability. As Operator 1 steered to port the transverse instability caused the port aft quarter to swamp and capsize Vessel 1. Victim 1, who was standing between two pedestal seats at the helm, was swept under the vessel and trapped against the bay floor, resulting in her death. For complete details regarding the investigation please refer to the investigation report.
  
  This case is pending the Medical Examiner's report and issuance of the death certificate.