The operator of Vessel 1 was cruising at night when he struck a rock (which was marked with floating light #46). The impact caused damage to the front and bottom of Vessel 1 and threw both occupants into the water. They were able to swim to a nearby rock where they began to yell for help. Some individuals on a nearby island heard the yells and called 911, which prompted the dispatch of two NH Marine Patrol Officers who immediately responded to the area in their patrol boat - Vessel 2.  

Upon arrival, the MP officers carefully navigated the extremely rocky area where the victims were located. They first threw PFDs to the victims and then were able to assist them onto the patrol boat. The victims were then transferred onto a fire boat that also responded to the scene. Both occupants were transported to the hospital and treated - one for a laceration on his leg and one for severe hip pain with possible broken bone. 

At this point, the Marine Patrol officers in Vessel 2 were able to turn their attention to Vessel 1, which was still running and wandering erratically on the lake.

The officers attempted to stop Vessel 1 by throwing 60' of towline with a PFD tied onto the end into its path, to entangle the propellers and stall it so that it could not cause further injury to persons or damage to property.  A first attempt was unsuccessful; during the second attempt, the officer operating Vessel 2 realized that he was headed toward a rock pile and had to make a sharp turn to avoid hitting the rocks and being struck by Vessel 1. As Vessel 2 made the hard turn to the port side, Vessel 1 caught the line just behind Vessel 2. The added force of Vessel 2 in conjunction with the momentum of Vessel 1 caused Vessel 2 to turn over and capsize. 

Vessel 1 then dragged Vessel 2 by the tow line; the Marine Patrol officers were able to free themselves from underneath the boat and come to the water's surface, then to be faced by Vessel 1 which had slowed but continued to wander, now towing the upside-down patrol boat (Vessel 2). Fortunately, good Samaritans from nearby had heard the commotion and arrived on scene and were able to assist the MP Officers onto their boat. Another good Samaritan was able to board Vessel 1 as it slowed due to the weight of Vessel 2 and one of the propellers being fouled by the line, and turn off the engine.

Both Vessel 1 and 2 were towed back to NHMP Headquarters, and the officers/occupants of Vessel 2 were brought to the hospital to be evaluated but were released with no injuries.

Lake Winnipesaukee
Gilford                       