New Port Richey, Florida Maritime Injury Lawyer :: Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Investigating Fatal Boat Accident

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The FWC is investigating a boat accident off the coast near Anclote Park that caused the death of a 55-year-old New Port Richey, Florida man. Three other passengers were tossed into the water, but were eventually rescued by Blue Fin Charter boat who also recovered the body of the deceased.

On April 16, 2011 the four boaters were making their way back from a day of fishing when their engine allegedly stopped working. Investigators said that the boaters attempted to anchor the vessel by throwing the anchor off the bow as the waters got rough. The boat was supposedly hit by a large wave that caused the vessel to tip over.

The boat sank into 20 feet of water while three passengers waded in the Gulf. None of the boaters’ were allegedly wearing life vests.

The charter boat that rescued the passengers was met by a USCG vessel at Anclote Park. The condition of the passengers was not released and an FWC spokesman said that it will be up to the medical examiner to determine the cause of death.

Florida has the highest number of registered boating vessels in the United States, according to the 2008 Florida Boating Accident Statistical Report. With a total of 657 reported accidents in 2008, Florida also has the highest number of boating accidents in the U.S. What was the main cause of boating fatalities in 2008? In Florida, the main cause of death amongst boaters was falling overboard. The numbers continue to grow every year.

With the spring and summer months ahead, it is important for Floridians to know the dangers of boating and the proper safety precautions to take when traveling the waterways. The risks of being in a boat accident or drowning are ever-present, so it is important to wear life jackets any time you are aboard a vessel, constantly check weather conditions, maneuver a boat at safe speeds and constantly check the engine and other mechanical equipment for any faults. One of the most important things to have onboard is life saving devices for yourself and all other passengers. If children are present, proper supervision should be given at all times.


If you or someone you care for has been hurt or killed in a fatal boating accident anywhere on Florida waterways, contact the Florida Maritime Injury Lawyers at the Law Offices of Whittel & Melton, LLC online or call 727-847-2299 or 1-866-608-5LAW (5529).

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