4 Rescued From Boat Sinking Near Ocean City, Crews Save Vessel: Officials

OCEAN CITY, MD — The U.S. Coast Guard announced that it rescued four people Monday from a boat that started sinking near Ocean City. Crews said they saved the vessel and everybody aboard.

A press release said the fishing boat, named Hot Pursuit, started taking on water 15 miles into the Atlantic Ocean.

Officials said the captain of Hot Pursuit sent a distress alert from the vessel's Digital Selective Calling feature. This button automatically radios for help and transmits all the boat's identifying information.

Coast Guard Sector Maryland-National Capital Region watchstanders responded to the alert. The Hot Pursuit captain told the Coast Guard that they were unsure the boat could return to port before sinking, the release said.

Coast Guard Station Ocean City sent a 47-foot motor life boat to help. The crew said it took two of the passengers onto the Coast Guard boat and stabilized Hot Pursuit with dewatering pumps.

The Coast Guard said it escorted Hot Pursuit to Sunset Marina, where it will undergo repairs.

None of the occupants needed medical assistance, the release said.

“The distress alert feature on marine radios and GPS’s can be a game changer if it’s properly set up,” said Chief Michael Weelmaa, command duty officer for Sector Maryland-NCR. “In situations like this, every second matters. Follow the instructions for your device before you head out on the water to ensure we’re locked in on your location and can get to you quickly.”