Traverse City, MI – A 26-foot boat crossing West Bay early Sunday morning was struck by a pontoon that allegedly fled the scene, authorities said.
According to the Grand Traverse County Sheriff’s Office, the crash happened around 1:22 a.m. when a northbound pontoon with no lights on collided with the 26-foot boat. The pontoon continued traveling north into West Bay without stopping.
Deputies said the driver of the damaged boat was unable to provide a description of the pontoon but immediately called 911 and donned a life jacket. Authorities confirmed there was significant damage to the left front of the vessel, but no injuries were reported. Sheriff’s deputies towed the boat and safely brought the operator back to shore.
The U.S. Coast Guard is assisting in searching the bay for the pontoon.
The Sheriff’s Office is asking anyone with information regarding the unidentified pontoon to contact its marine division at 231-922-2112 or email Deputy J. King at jking@gtsheriff.org.
Authorities are continuing to investigate and stressed the importance of operating boats with proper lighting and awareness to prevent accidents.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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