RedactedNarrative: A boating accident occurred involving two vessels in Rhode Island Sound on November 8, 2016. Boat operator/owner for Vessel 1 reported that his lobster vessel (Squeeze Play) was hauling lobster gear 8 miles east of Block Island.  The vessels’ mate looked up and noticed another vessel (Lucia) was headed on a collision course.  
  
  Operator1 was able to avoid a major collision but was struck on the port quarter of his boat the Squeeze Play.  Vessel 2 (Lucia) owned and operated by the same person, was starting to take on water.  Operator1 (Vessel 1) was able to maneuver his boat along side of the sinking Lucia to remove 4 passengers.  Operator1 then hailed the USCG for assistance.  The Lucia then sank.  
  
  Operator2 stated that his radar was working and that his vision was obstructed by the sun.  EPO concluded that Vessel 1, the Squeeze Play was the stand on vessel and that Vessel 2, the Lucia failed to give way and did not maintain a proper lookout.  Poor visibility obstructed by the sun and excessive speed from Vessel 2 (Lucia) were factors in the cause of the accident.  The Lucia was a total loss.
  