A boat fire occurred with only one occupant on board. No injuries. The Operator launched at Haddam Meadows Boat Launch. While traveling southbound on the CT River towards Haddam Meadows, noises started coming from the engine and the vessel stopped running. 

The Operator checked the engine compartment and found black smoke which turned into flames. The Operator attempted to use a fire extinguisher, but the fire was too large and engulfed the gas tank. The Operator was able to make contact for rescue using the VHF radio and his cell phone. He jumped overboard and swam away from the vessel. The Operator was not wearing a PFD. Total loss of vessel. The Middletown Fire Marshal Office determined origin to be in the engine area, but could not give the cause due to extensive damage to the vessel.
CT River
Middletown                    