RedactedNarrative: On December 1, 2022, In Loudon County, TN, Operator was operating his vessel downstream on Tellico Lake.  He was in the vicinity of the Little Tennessee River Mile 6 when he noticed an hour meter appeared to not be functioning properly.  He slowed his vessel down to investigate and noticed smoke coming from the engine compartment.  He retrieved two fire extinguishers and opened the engine compartment to find flames.  He fought the fire but was unable to completely extinguish it.  The smoke was so bad that he had to vacate the helm and call 911.  There was also several calls made by residents of Tellico Village.  A good samaritan was able to come to his aid and remove him from the burning vessel.  
  
  Myself and Sgt. were able to launch a patrol vessel from the Poplar Springs Access Area and respond.  Upon arrival we found Loudon County EMA and Tellico Village Fire already on scene attempting to extinguish the fire.  We got Operator on our vessel and transported him to the shore to Officer.  Officer transported him to the Poplar Springs Access Area for investigative purposes and then to his residence.  
  
  His vessel eventually became swamped and sank.  He is working with his insurance for salvage and clean up efforts.