Lake of the Ozarks, MO – Five people were reportedly injured in a boat explosion at Millstone Marina & RV Resort on Saturday afternoon.
According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, a 25 ft. Chris Craft exploded at approximately 1:50 p.m. on Saturday, June 15, at the marina on the 7 Mile Marker, in Laurie.
According to Gravois Fire Protection District (GFPD) Fire Chief Ed Hancock, firefighters were toned out at 1:54 p.m. and they were the first to arrive on the scene.
The explosion occurred shortly after filling the boat with gasoline, Missouri State Highway Patrolman Scott White reported. They had untied from the dock and based on preliminary information there was a flash fire, that fired up and extinguished just as quickly.
Photos show the flash fire separated the top cap of the boat from the hull.
Gravois Fire Protection District firefighters arrived on the scene to find five people with injuries. We assisted with triage and provided basic emergency care, Chief Hancock said. We determined who was the most injured and briefed the incoming ambulances on who [had the most serious injuries], and then they were transported for a higher level of care.
GFPD personnel also ensured there were enough ambulances. Lake West Ambulance and Mercy Ambulance responded and transported patients to hospitals and a Staff for Life Medical Helicopter. One patient with more serious injuries was transported to the hospital by Staff for Life. GFPD personnel also assisted with ground support at the helicopter landing pad, located at the GFPD G7 Station on Route O, just a few miles from Millstone Marina. Mid Mo Ambulance was cancelled in route. Rocky Mount Fire Protection District responded with their fire boat but were also cancelled in route.