RedactedNarrative: On April 14, 2019 I, Officer of the Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), responded to a vessel accident that occurred at approximately 1455hrs in Anclote Anchorage (Gulf of Mexico).  A 20' vessel (FL0713RH) carrying 13 people had taken on water and quickly sank near the mouth of the Anclote River.  A good Samaritan was able to provide aid and call for emergency response.  Responding agencies included: Tarpon Springs Fire Rescue, Pasco County Sheriff's Office, Pinellas County Sheriff's Office, and FWC.  All 13 involved parties were transported to the Anclote River Park boat ramp, 2 of which were then transported by EMS to Advent Health in North Pinellas County to be treated for minor injuries. 
  
  Carefree Boat Club member left Port Tarpon Marina with 8 total occupants onboard in a rented 2017 20' BEACHCAT vessel at approximately 1245hrs.  He traveled down river to Anclote River Park, where the occupants enjoyed the beach for approximately 2 hours.  It was at the park where an additional 5 individuals came aboard just before the 3 mile voyage to Anclote Key.  The vessel with a total of 13 occupants on board, made their way towards Anclote Key by way of the Anclote River Channel.  Approximately 1.5 miles from Anclote Key, the vessel began listing to its starboard side.  OPERATOR had the occupants move to the port side of the vessel to compensate.  This had no effect, so OPERATOR attempted to return to the boat ramp.  He turned the vessel to port, a wave washed over the bow, and the vessel was swamped/flooded.  The vessel sank very quickly without capsizing.  The location of the starboard rear compartment is level with the deck.  Although this compartment was found to be unlocked, it is unknown if the compartment door was open at the time of the accident.  An open rear compartment door would have increased the rate of sinking after the vessel was swamped/flooded.    
  Occupant1 sustained a contusion to the top of her right foot while attempting to exit the sinking vessel.  The high number of occupants attempting to exit the vessel at the same time, caused impact with the sinking vessel and injury to the right foot.; Occupant2 sustained a contusion to her right ankle while attempting to exit the sinking vessel and/or climbing aboard the  rescue vessel.  Occupant2 also experienced respiratory impairment as a result of swallowing water during the incident.  An MRI was ordered as a precaution at the hospital (AdventHealth).
  