On 7/3/2023, at approximately 0914 hours, a single vessel incident occurred on the St. John's River, near channel marker 28, in the City of Deland, FL, Volusia County.

V1, was a white in color 1980 Correct Craft Ski Boat, with a fiberglass hull and inboard motor. V1 was travelling north bound on the St. John's River at approximately 10 mph when fuel vapors from the engine compartment ignited and caused an explosion. Both Operator and Occupant sustained burns to their legs, hands, and arms.

On 7/3/2023, at approximately 0914 hours, a single vessel incident occurred on the St. John's River, near channel marker 28, in the City of Deland, FL, Volusia County.

V1, was a white in color 1980 Correct Craft Ski Boat, with a fiberglass hull and inboard motor. V1 was operated by Operator and occupied by his fiance Occupant. Operator was positioned behind the helm of V1 while Occupant was seated to his left on the passenger bench seat.

V1 was travelling north bound on the St. John's River at approximately 10 mph when Operator began smelling fuel vapors. Operator advised he activated the blower motor. Operator stated he had just rebuilt the motor and pressurized the fuel system the night before. 

Operator stated he continued to smell fuel vapors and decided to lift the motor compartment cowling to allow the vapors to dissipate. As Operator lifted the motor compartment cowling a loud pop was heard and the engine compartment combusted and caused a large fireball to extend forward towards Operator and Occupant. 

Operator stated the motor compartment exploded and burned his left hand and leg. Occupant sustained substantial burns to her legs and arms. The fire was extinguished and V1 was towed back to Ed Stone Boat ramp.

FWC Officers arrived on scene to assist with V1 and Operator and Occupant's injuries.

Operator was treated on scene by EMS. Occupant was transported to Orlando Regional Medical Center for treatment of her non-life threatening burns.

Operator suffered from minor burns to his hands and left leg. Treated onscene by EMS and refused transport to the hospital.

Occupant sustained third degree burns to her legs and arms when the motor compartment of V1 caught fire. Occupant was transported to Orlando Regional Medical Center where she received treatment for her injuries.

ST JOHNS RIVER
DE LAND                       