RedactedNarrative: SYNOPSIS  On Saturday July 25th 2020 at approximately 0800 hours a commercial tug vessel was engaged in pushing a 60’x36’ barge south in the area of Lake Placid.  The spud well located on the port stern of the barge being pushed, struck a private boat lift occupied by a 31’ vessel on the east side of the channel.  The lift was damaged severely causing the 31’ vessel on the lift to come partially off the lift.  Most of the bow of the 31’ vessel was submerged in the water.  There were no fatalities or injuries. 
  
  
  INTERVIEWS  
  •	Operator of V1 stated the south end of the anchored barge swayed to the east causing the gap between the barge and private docks to become narrower. 
  •	Upon approach of the same route operator of V1 has taken for weeks prior, he becomes aware that the gap is too narrow for the 60’x36’ barge to fit 
  •	Operator of V1 stated he attempted to reverse to avoid a collision 
  
  ACCIDENT SCENE DESCRIPTION  The water way currently has multiple anchored barges and is approximately 400’ to 500’  wide.  The depth of the water varies.  Private docks, boat lifts, and seawalls cover the east and west side of the waterway.  
  
  Vessel Damage: 
  
  Vessel 1:  Reported no damage
  Vessel 2:  Water damage to interior from being submerged 
  
  
  Injuries:  No injuries sustained in accident 
  
  ACCIDENT ANALYSIS
  