On October 6th, 2023 at approximately 0630 Operator1 was operating a 18 foot triton 189 trx on Douglas Lake in Jefferson County. He was preparing to fish a tournament when he launched his vessel from Douglas Dam boat ramp. It was dark and Operator1 was watching his depth finder while underway when he ran aground on a mudflat. Damage was done to the hull of the vessel possibly greater than $2,000. *** On October 6th, 2023 I was contacted by Morristown Dispatch at approximately 0800 about a single vessel property damage incident. I met Sgt. at The Pointe Marina in Dandridge where we boarded a patrol boat and responded to the scene. Sgt. and I assisted the operator and two other individuals free the boat and get it back in the water. We then followed Operator1 to the Douglas Dam boat ramp where he loaded his vessel and we continued the investigation.

Through written and verbal statements we determined. At approximately 0630 Operator1 was operating a 18 foot triton 189 trx on Douglas Lake in Jefferson County. He was preparing to fish a tournament when he launched his vessel from Douglas Dam boat ramp. The water conditions were calm and cloudy. It was dark and Operator1 was watching his depth finder while underway when he ran aground on a mudflat. He had just gotten on plane and he estimated he was running approximately 20 mph. The vessel travelled approximately 30 feet onto the mudflat. There were two gouges through the fiberglass of the vessel that were approximately eight inches in length and a half inch across. From the proximity of the damage it is possible more damage was under the bunks of the trailer hidden from view. Damage was done to the hull of the vessel was estimated at approximately $15,000. 

During our inspection all required safety equipment was aboard and working. The vessel had valid registration. At the time of the incident his lights were on and he was wearing an inflatable life jacket which did not deploy. No alcohol was found aboard the vessel and the operator showed no visible signs of impairment. The operator had no visible injuries but was shaken up from the incident. No charges are to be filed.

DOUGLAS RESERVOIR
DANDRIDGE                     