GULF SHORES, AL  -- A vessel crash at 9:15 p.m. along the Intracoastal Waterway, Saturday, June 18, has claimed two lives and injured three people.

Vessel operator Robert Lance Criswell, 32, of Jackson, and a passenger, Samuel Jacob Hawk, 28, of Thomasville, were both pronounced dead at the scene. Three other passengers on board the boat were transported to local hospitals for treatment.

The crash occurred when the 2007 Sea Hunt 220 they were aboard struck a pier entering Oyster Bay. No PFD’s were in use at the time of the crash. Preliminary investigation indicates alcohol may have been a factor in the crash.

Nothing further is available as Troopers from ALEA's Marine Patrol Division continue to investigate.