Man with 3rd-degree burns airlifted after Appomattox River explosion

PRINCE GEORGE, VA (WWBT) - Prince George Fire crews rushed to douse a boat engulfed in flames Wednesday evening, after an explosion sent smoke billowing above the Appomattox River.

The fire scene halted all operations at the Appomattox Boat Harbor just after 5 p.m., at an area close to Temple Avenue and the Southpark Mall.

Medics airlifted one person to VCU Medical Center, who suffered third degree burns on his arms, as well as first and second degree burns on his face.

Witnesses around the marina saw flames covering the man's body, moments before he jumped into the river.

"When I saw him, the first thing that went through my mind is that I didn't think he could ever get out of there alive," said Prince George resident Milton Emory in an interview Wednesday. "I heard him hollering... I never saw that much fire that quickly."

According to fire officials, the owner of the 32-foot boat and a potential buyer experienced engine trouble on the river earlier in the afternoon.

The owner brought the boat back to the marina, and an explosion happened after he started to repair the engine.