OAKLAND COUNTY, MI – A relaxing day on the water turned into a devastating emergency Sunday afternoon when a boat explosion at Pontiac Lake left three people severely burned, including two teenagers.
According to the Oakland County Sheriff’s Office, the explosion occurred around 1:20 p.m. at the public boat launch near M-59 and Williams Lake Road in Waterford Township. A 45-year-old Waterford Township man, his 16-year-old son, and his son’s friend were preparing to head out on the lake aboard a 17-foot Chris-Craft boat when the ignition switch was turned on—triggering a sudden explosion.
Emergency crews from the Oakland County Sheriff’s Search and Rescue Team and the Waterford Township Fire Department responded swiftly. By the time first responders arrived, the fire had already burned itself out.
One of the 16-year-old boys suffered burns over more than 50 percent of his body and was rushed to a nearby hospital in critical condition. The father and his son also sustained serious burn injuries and were hospitalized. Both are listed in stable condition.
The cause of the explosion remains under investigation by the Sheriff’s Search and Rescue Team. Authorities have not yet released the names of those involved.
This tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers that can arise in recreational boating. The community extends its thoughts and prayers to the victims and their families during this difficult time.
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