Patrol boat sinks at dock — cause under investigation
Photos obtained exclusively by StayTunedSandusky.com show the dramatic aftermath
PORT CLINTON — The Ottawa County sheriff’s office is investigating what caused its $336,386 federally funded marine patrol boat to sink last week while docked at Gem Beach Marina.
Chief Deputy Brad York confirmed to StayTunedSandusky.com that the boat went under during a storm while tied to the dock. "At this time we are not sure of the cause," York said in an email. "Speculation is that maybe bilge pumps could not keep up and/or the port-side mooring line may have been too tight, which did not allow the boat to rise with the water. That may have dragged the stern below the dive doors, which are not sealed."
The 35-foot SAFE boat was purchased through a federal homeland security grant under Operation Stonegarden, which funds patrols along the Lake Erie border and nearby marinas.
York said the department’s insurance provider, CORSA, is investigating the incident and assessing potential damage. “At this time, we have no estimate on damages,” he said.
In the meantime, deputies are relying on a separate 32-foot Boston Whaler provided through an Ohio Department of Natural Resources grant to maintain presence on the water. That boat is typically used for education and enforcement of Ohio’s boating laws.
StayTunedSandusky.com was first to obtain and publish exclusive photos of the vessel after it took on water — photos that have sparked widespread community reaction.
