RedactedNarrative: Operator #1 stated in effect: I turned off both engines to retrieve the kids from the tube. Once they were loaded onto the boat, I attempted to start up both engines. The starboard engine started up but the port engine would not start. I used a battery pack to jump start the motor. When I attached the cables to the battery I notice a flame in the engine compartment. The fire began to spread rapidly. I ensured all of my passengers had their personal flotation devices on and we jumped into the water. Once in the water we swam to a vessel who stopped to assist us. 
  
       Investigation Revealed: Operator #1 was operation Vessel #1 (V#1) southbound on the Shrewsbury River, Rumson Twp., Monmouth County. Operator #1 was towing a tube, he stopped his vessel to pick up his passengers, and shut down both motors. He loaded up his passengers and attempted to start up both motors. The starboard motor started but he was unable to start the port motor. Operator #1 attempted to jump start the port motor when he notice a flame in the engine compartment. He attempted to extinguish the fire but was unable to. All occupants of V#1 donned their PFD's, jumped overboard, and safely swam to a good Samaritan's vessel .
  
       The vessel became fully engulfed by the fire and was ultimately extinguished by Middletown Fire Department Station #2. As a result of the fire the vessel was submerged. The passengers of V#1 were transported to Navesink Marina and were checked by Sea Bright First Aid Squad. No injuries were reported on scene and all passengers refused medical attention. The owner and operator of the vessel were advised to contact a salvage company to remove the vessel as soon as possible. The vessel was removed on August 16, 2017 by TowBoat US Sandy Hook (Office 732-291-8264).
  