Police seek clues in Hopatcong boating 'hit-and-run'

The New Jersey State Police are reaching out through social media to track down an alleged hit-and-run boater who injured two people when he crashed into their boat Saturday on Lake Hopatcong.

Investigators from the New Jersey State Police Marine Unit, Lake Hopatcong Station posted on Facebook Monday, seeking "public assistance" to locate the operator of a boat they say struck another vessel about 10 p.m. Saturday night at Woodport Cove in the area of the Mason Street Pub.

The operator of the suspect's boat, State Police say, fled the location without stopping after the crash. Two of the five people in the victims' boat were injured and treated at the scene for minor injuries. The crash also caused extensive damage to the victims' boat.

Sgt. Jeffrey Flynn said Tuesday there was no description of the suspect, and his department had yet to receive any updated information. The suspect's vessel was described as a large, white cabin boat with an aluminum prop. Investigators believe that boat also sustained damage in the crash to both the hull and prop.

Anyone with information is urged to contact the Lake Hopatcong Station at 973-663-3401. Anonymous tis are welcome.

Staff Writer William Westhoven: 973-917-9242; wwesthoven@GannettNJ.com.