ATLANTA, Ga. (Atlanta News First) - Seven people were injured after a boat exploded on Lake Lanier during the Fourth of July holiday.

The Georgia Department of Natural Resources said a 23-foot cabin-cruiser being towed in Landshark Cove near Margaritaville exploded around 7 p.m. Friday.

Five people were taken to area hospitals, including at least one who was airlifted. The DNR said the injured suffered second and third-degree burns.

Two people were treated at the scene for minor injuries, according to a Hall County Fire Department spokesperson.

The boat was fully engulfed by five-foot-high flames, the Hall County Fire Department said.

The victims ranged in age from 45 to 5-years-old, Mark McKinnon with the DNR told Atlanta News First.

Officals said the fire was put out using a portable pump and with assistance from Gainesville Fire’s Marine Rescue boat.

The cause of the explosion is unknown and is under investigation by the Hall County Fire Marshal’s Office.

This is a developing story. Check back with Atlanta News First for updates.

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