June 14, 2023 (Wednesday)

On this date, I was detailed to Southwinds Marina in Lacey Township, Ocean County, New Jersey in reference to a Vessel Accident. Prior to arrival I was advised that a vessel was leaving the dock and had struck another vessel in the marina.

Upon arrival, I spoke with the operator of Vessel 1. Operator 1 stated in effect, I was taking my boat out to test it after some mechanical issues. I was pulling out of my slip when the throttle became stuck in forward. I was unable to stop my boat and hit another boat that was docked in front of me.

Investigation revealed Operator 1 was puling Vessel 1 out of his slip at Southwinds marina and encountered a mechanical problem. Vessel 1 subsequently accelerated forward rapidly and Operator 1 was unable to stop vessel 1 prior to impacting vessel 2. The bow of vessel 1 subsequently impacted the bow of vessel 2. Vessel 1 subsequently began to override vessel 2 where it came to rest. Vessel 1 sustained fiberglass damage (gouging) to the port side bow, gunwale and the bow eye was slightly bent.

Vessel 2 sustained fiberglass gouging from the bow eye of vessel 1 on the port side bow cap, the bow rail was ripped from the vessel and fell into the water and the anchor pulpit was bent.

There were no injuries reported. Vessel 1 was removed from the water by Southwinds Marina. Vessel 2 remained docked. The owner of vessel 2 responded to the scene and was apprised of the accident.

FORKED RIVER
LACEY TWP                     