Boat Capsizes, 4 People End Up In The Water: State Officials

GRISWOLD, CT — Four people had to be rescued after their paddle boat capsized.

At 6:30 a.m. Saturday, DEEP EnCon Police and local emergency responders responded to a report of a capsized paddle boat on Glasgo Pond in Griswold involving four individuals who were attempting to watch the sunrise from the water, state officials said.

All four occupants entered the water after the vessel capsized and were rescued by nearby bystanders and a Connecticut State Trooper after being in the water for approximately 15 minutes, officials said. All parties were transported by ambulance to Backus Hospital with minor, non-life-threatening injuries.

"Importantly, all occupants were wearing life jackets, which is great to see and likely played a major role in preventing a much more serious outcome," state officials said. "However, one individual did come partially out of their flotation device after entering the water because it was not properly secured, highlighting the importance of ensuring life jackets are properly fitted and fastened at all times.

The investigation determined the paddleboat was overloaded at the time of the incident.