Boat runs aground in the dark, just off Alton's Treasure Island

Two passengers in a boat that struck rocks about 50-feet off Treasure Island on Tuesday night were transported to Lakes Region General Hospital in Laconia for treatment. Cynthia Sapier, 36, of Barnstead was said to be suffering from facial lacerations, bruising to her lower torso and possible internal injuries and Ronald Panella, 59 of Alton received facial lacerations and bruises.

According to a Marine Patrol report, the two were were in a boat being piloted by Robin Pyburn, 50, of Alton, that was attempting to return to the West Alton Marina. Those onboard apparently became disoriented in the dark and spent several hours trying to find the marina. At about 8:15 p.m., the boat traveled inside a buoy and became grounded on the rocks it hit. Sapier and and Panella were thrown forward at impact, when the sustained their non-life threatening injuries.

The Alton Fire Boat responded to a subsequent 911 call and transported everyone to shore.

Treasure Island — also known as Redhead Island — is a small island located just east of Sleepers Island.