A late night boating accident near the Hammond Marina claimed the life of one person after a vessel struck a submerged breakwall while attempting to enter the harbor Saturday night, according to Indiana Conservation Officer Alex Neel.

The accident occurred at approximately 11:34 p.m. as a boat carrying six people from an Illinois marina tried attempting to enter the Hammond Marina during the conclusion of Venetian Night festivities.

According to Neel, the boat’s operator, who was unfamiliar with the area, struck a submerged breakwall located outside the visible breakwall protecting the marina entrance.

“The operator didn’t know there was a wall there because he’s not from the area,” Neel said.

After the initial impact, wind and waves pushed the vessel toward the visible breakwall. As the operator attempted to maneuver away from it, the boat struck the submerged breakwall a second time, causing significant damage and rapid flooding.

“The second impact is when the boat really started taking on water and basically sank,” Neel said.

All six occupants were rescued from the water and vessel. One person died during the incident, while the remaining passengers suffered no major injuries. The rescue on the rocks with rough waters made it very challenging.

Investigators do not believe alcohol or criminal activity played a role in the crash.

“There’s no criminal aspect right now with the boat or the operator,” Neel said. “It’s just an accident on the water.”

The exact cause of the victim’s death remains under investigation. Neel said there were no apparent traumatic injuries associated with the collision. Preliminary information from family on scene suggests the individual may have suffered a medical emergency. “The autopsy will determine the cause of death,” Neel said.

The victims were all reportedly wearing life jackets.

As is standard procedure in fatal boating incidents, a blood sample was obtained from the operator for toxicology testing.

This information is preliminary and the investigation remains ongoing pending the results of the autopsy and toxicology testing. Authorities have not yet released the identity of the victim.