9 Rescued After Boat Takes On Water In Manahawkin: Police

MANAHAWKIN, NJ — Nine people were rescued from a sinking boat south of the Causeway Bridge in Manahawkin Saturday afternoon, Stafford police said.

The Stafford police marine unit received a distress call at about 12:38 p.m. Saturday while doing weekend marine patrols, according to a news release.

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The distress call reported a vessel taking on water about one mile south of the bridge, police said. The caller, a passing boater, remained with the sinking vessel until police came.

Sergeant Christopher Smith and Patrolman Andrew Moslowitz immediately responded and reached the distressed vessel within about five minutes, police said.

Upon arrival, officers located a 23-foot vessel partially submerged with nine occupants aboard. All nine occupants were wearing lifejackets when officers arrived.

The boat had struck one of several partially submerged dredge pipes in the area, causing significant damage to the vessel's outdrive, according to police. The impact partially separated the outdrive from the vessel, allowing water to rapidly enter the boat.

All nine people were safely transferred to the Stafford Township Police Marine Unit vessel. No injuries were reported, police said.

After ensuring everyone was safe, members of the Marine Unit worked to keep the damaged vessel afloat until Sea Tow arrived to assist. With Sea Tow's assistance, the vessel was transported to the Ship Bottom boat ramp.

The nine occupants were also transported to the Ship Bottom boat ramp, where they were reunited with awaiting family members.

Police used the incident to remind boaters to remain alert for navigational hazards and to ensure that properly fitted lifejackets are readily available and worn when appropriate. Having a reliable means of communication, particularly a VHF marine radio, can also be critical during an emergency and allows boaters to quickly summon assistance when needed.

The Stafford Township Police Department also recognized the passing boater who made the initial distress call and remained with the vessel until emergency personnel arrived.

"Their actions demonstrate the importance of boaters looking out for one another while on the water," police said.