RedactedNarrative: Operator #1 stated in effect:  I was coming in from the bay when I smelt a strong smell of gas.  I went to check where the smell was coming from.  I stood on the engine compartment and it exploded.  
  
  Investigation on scene revealed: V1 was inbound into the Forked River from the Barnegat Bay.  Operator #1 went to the area of the engine compartment to check if there was a gasoline leak due to the odor coming from that area. For unknown reasons, the engine compartment became engulfed with flames and subsequently caused an explosion.  The operator was ejected from the vessel and came to a rest in the Forked River.  The passenger then proceeded to jump from the vessel into the water.  Both occupants were able to be retrieved from the water.  Operator #1 was transported to Community Medical Center in Toms River for further evaluation.  The passenger declined further treatment.  
  Victim #2's statement collaborated the operator's statement.  
  
  Vessel sustained damage to the engine compartment and the engine. In addition, the vessel's engines compartment hatch was blown off as a result of the explosion.  Tow Boat arrived on scene and the vessel was towed to Silver Cloud Marina, Lacey Township.
  