OAKLAND COUNTY, Mich. — July 27, 2025 — A summer outing turned tragic Sunday afternoon when a boat explosion on Pontiac Lake left three people seriously injured. The victims—45-year-old Michael Turner of Waterford Township, his 16-year-old son Ethan Turner, and Ethan’s close friend, 16-year-old Jayden Collins—were aboard a 17-foot Chris-Craft pleasure boat when it erupted into flames shortly after the ignition was switched on.
The explosion occurred at the public boat launch near M-59 and Williams Lake Road, just as the group was preparing to enjoy a day on the lake. The Oakland County Sheriff’s Office Search and Rescue Team and the Waterford Township Fire Department responded to the scene at approximately 1:20 p.m. By the time emergency crews arrived, the fire had burned itself out, leaving the vessel severely damaged and the occupants badly burned.
Victims Sustain Severe Injuries
According to authorities, Jayden Collins suffered burns over more than 50 percent of his body and was airlifted to a specialized burn center in critical condition. Michael Turner and his son Ethan also sustained serious burns but were listed in stable condition as of Sunday evening.
“This is a heartbreaking incident for everyone involved,” said Lt. Dan Green of the Oakland County Sheriff’s Marine Division. “We’re focusing on supporting the victims and their families, while also working to determine what caused such a violent explosion.”
Investigation Ongoing
The Oakland County Sheriff’s Office Search and Rescue Team is actively investigating the cause of the blast. Preliminary theories suggest the possibility of a fuel vapor buildup in the engine compartment—something that can occur if a boat’s ventilation system fails or is not properly used before ignition.
Investigators are inspecting the Chris-Craft boat’s fuel system, ignition components, and any recent maintenance history as they try to determine whether a mechanical failure or human error played a role in the explosion.
Chris-Craft boats, while respected in the boating community for their craftsmanship and performance, require careful maintenance and proper ventilation protocols—especially before startup.
Shockwaves in the Community
The explosion occurred at a busy time on Pontiac Lake, and many families and boaters witnessed the frightening scene unfold. Witnesses described hearing a sudden boom, followed by a fireball and smoke billowing from the boat launch area.
“I heard the bang and saw the flames right after,” said Lisa McPherson, a nearby boater who ran to help. “It was chaos. People were screaming and calling 911. It’s something I’ll never forget.”
The incident has left the Waterford Township community shaken. Michael Turner, a lifelong resident of the area, is known for his friendly nature and love of the outdoors. His son Ethan and Jayden are both students at Waterford Mott High School, where news of the explosion spread quickly among classmates and staff.
Local churches and civic groups are already rallying behind the families, organizing fundraisers and offering meals and emotional support. A GoFundMe page has reportedly been set up to help cover medical expenses and support the long road to recovery ahead for all three victims.
Boating Safety Emphasized
Authorities are using the incident as a reminder of the critical importance of boating safety—particularly when it comes to starting engines after refueling or periods of disuse.
Boat owners are advised to:
- Use a bilge blower for several minutes before ignition.
- Regularly inspect fuel lines and engine compartments for leaks or fumes.
- Keep a working fire extinguisher onboard and ensure all passengers know where it is.
- Have regular maintenance checks done, especially on older vessels.
“This tragedy could have been even worse,” said Lt. Green. “We urge all boaters to be cautious and take preventive safety steps before getting out on the water.”
Moving Forward
As Michael Turner and Ethan continue their treatment and Jayden Collins fights for his life, the focus remains on their recovery and on uncovering the precise cause of this devastating event.
The Oakland County Sheriff’s Office is asking anyone who may have witnessed the explosion or has information relevant to the investigation to come forward.
This tragedy has left a lasting impact on everyone who knew the victims—and on all who frequent Pontiac Lake. In the midst of the heartbreak, the community is standing strong, hopeful for healing, and determined to prevent similar accidents in the future.
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