V1 was near New Pass in the Gulf of Mexico. V1 was utilizing their bow mounted trolling motor only while recreational fishing. Subject onboard near the bow was manipulating the plug of the trolling motor to possibly adjust or reconnect. Seconds after V1 exploded and ejected all six passengers into the water.

Based on evidence and information gathered to date, V1 was recreational cruising with six occupants located on the V1 and being operated by subject who was behind the helm of the center console. V1 arrived near the location of New Pass west of a sandbar to recreational fish. 

Subject1 was located near the bow of V1 and was in control of the bow mounted trolling motor at the time of incident. Subject turned off the outboard engine so Subject1 could use the trolling motor to anchor and take control of V1. 

Subject1 noticed that the trolling motor was having intermittent power surges and would turn off and back on. As Subject1 was diagnosing the electrical issue near the trolling motors plug, V1 exploded and ejecting all six occupants in different directions. 

The damage to V1 that resulted from this explosion was a separation of the vessel hull and deck. The following items detached from the deck of V1 and landed in the water were, the center console, bench helm seat, front and rear hatch compartment lids. 

V1 capsized due to the damages that occurred. The damage to V1 amplifies a possible ignition of gas vapors inside the hull by electrical or some type of sparking source that caused the explosion of V1.

Occupant1 suffered an injury to his L1 rib, which resulted in a fracture requiring surgery and rehabilitation.
Occupant2 sustained bruised left ankle, contusions and small laceration to left foot toe.;
Occupant3- unable to confirm injuries.
Occupant4 sustained possible concussion and contusions all over body.
Occupant5 compound fracture left wrist, contusion ribs 

Gulf of Mexico
LONGBOAT KEY                  