PINELLAS COUNTY, Fla. (WFLA) – A 21-year-old is now being treated for minor injuries after an explosion and boat fire took place in unincorporated Largo.
According to Pinellas Suncoast Fire Rescue, they responded to the incident around 3:55 p.m. Sunday at the Indian Springs Marina located at 15151 113th Ave. North.
Fire rescue crews say 50-year-old David Weil, the owner of the boat, had just filled up his 2005 Four Winds 25-foot deck boat inboard engine with fuel, and when he attempted to crank the boat several times, it suddenly exploded.
Weil’s daughter, 21-year-old Hope Weil, was standing near the bow when the explosion happened. The force of the blast caused her to fall into the water.
When Weil realized his daughter was thrown into the water, he dove in to rescue her.
She had some minor injuries to her legs and was taken to Bayfront Medical Center.
Weil was thrown onto the dock but fortunately did not receive any injuries.
Weil’s wife, 49-year-old Gail Weil, was standing nearby on the seawall and a family friend, 25-year-old Ryan McMahon, was on the dock at the rear of the boat. Both were knocked down as a result of the blast, but neither received any injuries.
Largo Fire Rescue responded to the scene and were able to extinguish the fire.
Deputies say roughly 100 gallons of fuel spilled into the water as a result of the fire. Hazmat units were able to help contain spilled fuel.
Crews say the boat is a total loss.
Afterward, marina personnel were able to remove the boat from the water and bring it onshore to avoid any further hazards. The cause of the fire does not appear to be suspicious.
Pinellas County deputies are currently conducting an investigation.
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