12 People Rescued From Potomac River Near Georgetown Saturday

GEORGETOWN, MD — Twelve people, including several children, were rescued from a frightening situation on the Potomac River near Georgetown Saturday afternoon. Surging waters cut them off from the safety of shore while they were fishing and picnicking, leaving them stranded on islands.

D.C. Fire and EMS were called to the scene to help with the rescue that unfolded between Fletcher’s Cove north of Georgetown and the Chain Bridge. D.C. Fire spokesperson Vito Maggiolo told WTOP that they could have easily been swept away if the water continued to rise.

"The need to get them and move them to safety was paramount," he said.

Rescuers used motorized inflatable boats to retrieve the people, making numerous trips. Five adults and four children were taken to Fletcher’s Boathouse and evaluated by D.C. Fire and EMS medics. They did not require further medical attention.

Three other people were rescued by D.C. police’s harbor unit and were dropped off on the Virginia side of the river, where they left the scene.

Potomac River water rescue at Chain Bridge complete. 5 adults & 4 children trapped by rapidly rising river waters successfully rescued thru joint effort by #DCsBravest and @DCPoliceDept Harbor units . They are being brought to Georgetown Harbor for medical evaluation. pic.twitter.com/uRHT269Exc
— DC Fire and EMS #StayHomeDC (@dcfireems) June 20, 2020