Diver Discharged from Hospital After Incident Off Marblehead's Coast

Photo credit: Marblehead Police Department

A Boston man diving off the Marblehead shore was discharged from the hospital hours after being flown by medical helicopter to Massachusetts General Hospital.

Alexander Dulavitz, 31, of Boston, was transported to Marblehead’s shore July 4 after scuba diving several miles south of Marblehead, according to Police Chief Bob Picariello.

Dulavitz was diving in about 180 feet of water when he experienced symptoms of decompression sickness, otherwise known as ”the bends,” according to Marblehead Fire Chief Jason Gilliland. He did not have any physical injuries.

Dulavitz was diving with a group and the party appeared to be well-experienced divers, Gilliland said, adding that none of the other divers experienced problems. Dulavitz’s companions called first responders at 12:15 p.m., and alerted them that they were bringing Dulavitz to shore in Marblehead.

Boston MedFlight landed at Seaside Park and transported the diver, who was conscious and talking at the time, Gilliland said,

A Massachusetts General Hospital spokeswoman said Dulavitz was released from the hospital on Saturday.