Authorities are regarding the explosion and fire that heavily damaged a pontoon boat near the Proser Boat Launch on the Yakima River as suspicious.  The boat was reported stolen, then was recovered with help from law enforcement. The boat had been tied off by the Prosser Boat Launch until the owner could retrieve it. That was earlier this week.

It was missing for a couple of days, reported stolen, then recovered. Then Thursday, the 911 calls came in from residents who live near the river by Ward Gap and Byron Roads. They heard an explosion, then saw the boat drifting and engulfed in flames in the river.

It was retrieved by deputies after the fire was put out, the investigation continues. No word on the total damage done (financial) to the craft.

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