But then he realized it was the boat just about 100 yards (90 meters) offshore. Larry Santangelo, 57, said he had just driven into his neighborhood when he saw smoke and fire and thought a house - possibly his own - was ablaze. But as the vessel turned back, flames kicked up and people began jumping overboard into shallow water, according to witness accounts. Port Richey Police Chief Gerard DeCanio said the shuttle boat experienced engine problems after leaving the dock at Port Richey, a suburban community about 35 miles (55 kilometers) northwest of Tampa. Officials said the boat was headed out to the casino ship at the time. Sunday, quickly engulfing the boat close to shore near residential neighborhoods. The shuttle boat caught fire about 4 p.m. There, passengers would play games such as black jack, which is illegal at non-Indian casinos in Florida, and roulette, which is illegal statewide. The shuttle boat regularly carried people back and forth from the Tropical Breeze’s offshore casino, about a 45-minute ride into international waters. Helicopter video taken by WTSP-TV early Monday shows the boat was burned down to its hull, with only an American flag on its bow uncharred. Conover said eight other passengers were treated at the hospital and released.Īuthorities originally said no injuries were life-threatening.Ĭoast Guard Petty Officer 1st Class Michael De Nyse said investigators will determine the cause of the fire and examine the history of the boat and Tropical Breeze Casino. Her name has not been released and a cause of death has not been determined. Pasco County Sheriff’s Office spokesman Kevin Doll said the victim was 42.

Florida casino boat fire