Vancouver Police Department’s Marine Unit responded this afternoon after a boat carrying three people exploded in the Fraser River.
The explosion occurred around 3 p.m. Sunday, shortly after it was launched into the river from Musqueam. Three people on board – two men in their 40s and a teenager – avoided serious injury by jumping overboard and hanging on to the side of the boat.
VPD’s Marine Unit responded, alongside BC Ambulance, Coast Guard and Vancouver Fire Rescue Services.
Based on the initial investigation, it appears the owners recently purchased the 20-foot aluminum jet boat and were taking it for a test drive in the river when a fire started near the fuel tank, which had recently been replaced. It’s believed the fire led to the explosion.
The boaters were not able to don life jackets before jumping overboard, however they did push the boat to shallow water as it burned. One person was treated for a minor injury.
There was no significant environmental damage and no charges or police fines are expected.
