RedactedNarrative: On 7-7-2017, I was called to assist in the investigation of a hit and run vessel accident. The accident involved a large vessel (DO# 929314) versus boat lift. Owner rents a boat slip to the vessel (V1) owner and is known to him. The owner/operator was reported to us as Operator1 and was later identified.
  
  The dock owner described witnessing V1 attempting to undock and leave. However, as the owner untied V1, the current was moving swiftly and pushed the vessel towards the docks boat lift. While this was happening, the only occupant, Operator1 was climbing up the cabin ladder and was unaware of his vessels' drift. Operator1 eventually made it to the controls and throttled forward but not in time to avoid a collision. V1 slammed into the boat lift on the corner of its starboard-side and the stern. (see diagram)
  
  Owner attempted to wave Operator1 back to dock but was ignored. Owner then called Operator1 by phone. Operator1 denied hitting anything and refused to return to the accident scene. Owner photographed V1 as it left the scene of the accident.
  
  V1 was located at anchor just outside of Alligator Bay with one occupant on board, later identified as Operator1. Operator1 denied hitting anything but fresh damage was found at the starboard-stern of the vessel with pieces of wood imbedded into the rub rail screws. Damage to V1 was consistent with eye witness accounts of the accident. (see pictures)
  
  V1 has minor damage to the starboard-stern corner of the fiberglass hull and rub rail. The boat lift piling is damaged below the waterline and will probably need to be replaced.
  
  Operator1 was also found to be intoxicated and was subsequently arrested for Boating Under the Influence and Leaving the Scene of an accident. Operator1 was also cited for USCG Rule 5 failure to maintain proper lookout and for Expired registration for his vessel. (see attached Incident Report)