The number of people affected in a boat explosion on Lake Lanier on Friday night has been updated by authorities, who now say seven people were hurt—two more than first reported. HALL COUNTY, Ga.
The 23-foot cabin cruiser detonated while being hauled in Landshark Cove, close to Margaritaville, at approximately 7 p.m., according to the Georgia Department of Natural Resources. The ship was soon enveloped in flames that rose up to five feet. According to DNR Public Information Officer Mark McKinnon, the boat was carrying seven passengers, ages five to forty-five. They were all burned in the second and third degrees.
Everyone on board was saved by a quick-thinking tow operator who took them to Margaritaville, where paramedics were waiting.
Four victims were transported by emergency personnel, including one via AirLife helicopter, to Grady Memorial Hospital in Atlanta. Hall County Fire Rescue PIO Kimberlie Ledsinger reported that two patients were treated on the scene and that a fifth patient was sent to Northeast Georgia Medical Center in Gainesville. According to reports, every victim’s condition was stable.
To put out the fire, firefighters used a portable pump and the Gainesville Fire Department’s Marine Rescue boat. Later, the ship was hauled to land.
The Hall County Fire Marshal’s Office is still investigating what caused the explosion.
