Operator #1 stated in effect: I was operating my boat and was on my cell phone and was not paying attention when I crashed into the other boat.

Investigation at the scene revealed: Vl was inbound from the Kettle Creek. While heading north on that lagoon in the area of Vessel #2, Vessel #1 was traveling on the right side of the lagoon when the vessel started drifting across the lagoon towards the left side then changed course and came back to the right side of the lagoon. 

After crossing the lagoon, Vessel #1 struck Vessel #2, which was moored on a boat lift secured to its dock, causing scraping and scratching damage to the bow and keel of Vessel #2 as well as breaking off a mooring whip off the dock and causing the boat lift to bend from the impact of Vessel #1. Vessel #1 sustained damage to its port side bow rail and scrape and scratch damage to its port side bow. Vessel #1 then was shifted into reverse and left the scene and returned to its dock.

On 7/3/2023, the undersigned responded to the residence of Vessel #2 after being notified Via NJSP ODU 10 Comm that the owner of Vessel #2 was notified by his neighbors that his Vessel was damaged. 

The owner of Vessel #2 was able to provide video footage of the Vessel Accident from his own home surveillance cameras. The video footage provided evidence of the description of Vessel #1 which was located on a nearby lagoon, after canvassing the nearby neighborhoods. The undersigned then made contact with the operator of Vessel #1 after knocking on his front door. The operator of Vessel #1 made statements that confirmed that he was indeed the operator of Vessel #1 and that he did crash into Vessel #2 on 7/2/2023 at approximately 5:46pm. Operator #1 stated to the effect that he was planning on going to Vessel #2's residence the next day to exchange information and take care of the cost for damages from the vessel accident but was not able to before the State Police arrived at his residence.

No injuries were reported or observed on scene. Both vessels remained at their residences. Operator #1 was issued summons for 13:82-1.8 for Violation of Rule #8 Action to Avoid Collision.

Damage to boat lift and mooring whip was caused by Vessel #1. Damage estimated to be approximately $2500.

SOUTHVIEW LAGOON
BRICK                         