Serious Boating Accident Near Fort Myers Beach: Seven Rescued by Emergency Teams

Photo Source: U.S. Coast Guard

Emergency response teams from multiple agencies were called to the scene of a serious boating accident off the north end of Fort Myers Beach earlier Sunday.

According to officials, a 36-foot vessel was traveling near Bowditch Park when it struck a stationary barge, resulting in multiple injuries among those on board. Units from the Fort Myers Beach Fire Department, the United States Coast Guard (USCG), the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, and Lee County EMS responded swiftly to the incident.

The USCG reported that Coast Guard Station Fort Myers Beach rescue crews arrived promptly and assisted in rescuing all seven individuals on board. Two boat crews were launched, safely transporting the boaters to emergency medical services on the scene. Fortunately, all seven were reported to be in stable condition.

A watchstander at Station Fort Myers Beach notified Sector St. Petersburg watchstanders of the crash, ensuring a coordinated emergency response. Meanwhile, a Station Fort Myers Beach boat crew towed the damaged vessel back to the station.

Officials confirmed that three people sustained minor injuries, while the other four were rushed to the hospital for treatment.

For those interested in tracking the vessel involved in this incident or other maritime traffic in the area, you can track it live on ShipXplorer: