A fire and explosion on a small boat sent smoke soaring above Lake Winnipesaukee Saturday afternoon, authorities said.
Six people were forced to jump off the boat, which floated toward Meredith Bay and the MS Mount Washington.
Two Jet Ski riders pulled the burning boat away from the dock, distancing it from other boats that included the MS Mount Washington, according to Laconia Fire Department.
The fire sent four passengers to Lakes Region General Hospital with minor injuries and caused minor damage to a few surrounding boats before it was extinguished by the Laconia Fire Department and the New Hampshire Marine Patrol.
A 67-year-old man was treated for a broken rib and minor lacerations, while two juveniles and a 36-year-old woman suffered minor cuts and bruises.
The 1993 25-foot Formula powerboat, owned by Derry, NH resident Jason Johnson, had been refueling at the docks just before 4 p.m. Operators of the boat struggled to get it started prior to a loud explosion, investigators said.
The accident is still under investigation.
