St. Clair Shores, Mich. — A tragic incident unfolded over the weekend at a local marina when a boat explosion claimed the life of a family pet and left two individuals with minor injuries. The explosion occurred Saturday afternoon at about 12:50 p.m. at the Emerald City Harbor gas dock on Jefferson Avenue, north of Nine Mile Road.
According to authorities from the Macomb County Sheriff’s Marine Division, the two individuals had just finished refueling when the vessel exploded. Witnesses reported seeing the boat drift into Lake St. Clair moments after the captain pulled away from the dock. Video footage from a nearby security camera captured the chaotic scene as the explosion rocked the area.
Tragically, a dog that was onboard failed to survive the blast. Marine division deputies confirmed the canine was quickly transported to an emergency veterinary facility but succumbed to its injuries shortly thereafter. “It’s an unfortunate situation that has affected the family deeply,” said a representative from the marine division.
In the immediate aftermath of the explosion, dock attendants and bystanders rushed to extinguish the flames and assist the individuals who had been thrown into the water. Emergency services from St. Clair Shores arrived on the scene to provide further support and medical assistance.
Responding deputies noted that the vessel had become nearly fully submerged, with large debris scattered across the water’s surface. The explosion not only affected the boat but also caused damage to the fuel dock itself. Authorities indicated that due to the extensive fuel and oil contamination, environmental services were called in to manage the situation and minimize ecological impact.
While the investigation into the cause of the explosion is ongoing, deputies have indicated that foul play is not believed to be a factor. “At this point, we are looking into all possibilities to determine what led to this incident,” a marine division spokesperson stated.
As the community grapples with the aftermath, local residents are reminded of the importance of safety during recreational boating activities. The incident serves as a somber reminder of the inherent risks associated with fuel handling and boat operation.