PINELLAS COUNTY, Fla. — A boat caught fire Friday at John's Pass and was engulfed by flames, and two people were treated for minor injuries.
- Boat fire happened just before noon Friday
- 2 people suffered minor injuries, did not go to hospital
- BELOW: Viewer videos shared with Spectrum Bay News 9
Treasure Island Fire Chief Trip Barrs said the boat was being fueled at a dock when it exploded just before noon. The two people on the boat jumped into the water and were pulled to safety.
The 30-foot power boat drifted for about an hour before the fire was put out. The boat sunk near the Isle of Capri.
Mary Meyers lives in the area said it was a frightening sight.
"All I could see was the boat right in front of me. Big black smoke, lots of flames," Meyers said.
Spectrum Bay News 9 viewers sent photos and videos of the fire scene, with thick black smoke filling the sky.
The fire chief said it was too early to tell what caused the explosion. Marina employees think it was a vapor build-up.
"At this point, we're just going to make sure the rest of the fire is extinguished and it's the owner's responsibility to find a salvage company to salvage the vessel," Barrs said.