09/22/2023

On the above date at approximately 2015 hrs Marine ODU contacted Carteret Station in reference a vessel assist just north of the Outerbridge Crossing in Woodbridge, Middlesex County. Perth Amboy Fire Department was on scene and advised Marine ODU that Carteret Station Troopers did not need to respond because they were going to tow the vessel. 

At 2211 hrs, Marine ODU dispatch contacted Carteret Station and advised Perth Amboy Fire Department and Woodbridge Police Department were requesting our assistance. Upon arrival on scene, the vessel was partially submerged at the Park Dock in Woodbride. All parties on board already departed the scene. The undersigned obtain the owner/operator's contact information from Perth Amboy Fire Department and Seatow declined to respond to remove the submerged vessel due to weather.

On 09/23/2023 the owner/operator of vessel #1 stated in effect: I was traveling southbound inside the channel and hit some debris in the water. The boat wouldn't turn on and Perth Amboy towed our boat. My wife hit her head and was transported to the hospital to get stitches.

Investigation revealed: Vessel #1 (Vl) was traveling southbound on the Arthur Kill River just north of the Outerbridge Crossing. Perth Amboy advised NJSP Marine ODU that upon their arrival to Vl, the vessel was stuck on the pilings just south of Captain Carlson Park. 

Perth Amboy FD towed Vl to the dock located at Captain Carlson Park. Woodbridge EMS evaluated victim for a laceration to her head. She was transported to Raritan Bay Medical Center. While docked, Vl became partially submerged. On 10/03/2023 the undersigned inspected Vl. The undersigned observed no damage to the front of the vessel. The stern drive was completely separated from the vessel. Based on Perth Amboy Fire Department's observation of the vessel on scene and the undersigned's inspection of the vessel, Vl struck a fixed object outside of the channel. Although the operator stated that he checked the weather before sailing, the United States Coast Guard issued a small craft advisory due to the strong winds.

ARTHUR KILL RIVER
WOODBRIDGE                    