Skip to main content

Man unhurt but boat a total loss after fire

A Lincoln man was uninjured but his boat was a total loss after it caught fire July 10 on Branched Oak Lake.

The 35-year-old was the lone occupant of the boat, a 2001 Baja motorboat, when it caught fire after having mechanical issues. He unsuccessfully tried to put out the blaze with two fire extinguishers.

Sgt. Curt Prohaska, conservation officer with the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, responded at 11:10 a.m. to a 911 call from Branched Oak State Recreation Area. The boater declined medical attention after the incident.

The boat, valued at $31,500, was recovered by a towing company.

Game and Parks is investigating the cause of the fire.


About Jerry Kane

Jerry Kane is the news manager with the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission. He can be contacted at jerry.kane@nebraska.gov or 402-471-5008.

Related Articles

Commissioners to consider sportfishing orders

Oct 2, 2025

Commissioners to consider sportfishing orders

They will take up these potential fishing changes at their meeting Oct. 10 at Niobrara State Park.

Read More
Fort Robinson makes way for new pool

Sep 25, 2025

Fort Robinson makes way for new pool

The new aquatic center at Fort Robinson State Park will feature a zero-entry outdoor pool.

Read More
Access at Platte River SP to be affected by construction

Sep 22, 2025

Access at Platte River SP to be affected by construction

The main road west of the park’s entrance booth will be closed from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Sept. 26.

Read More