Introduction to the Incident
FDNY Marine Rescue 4 responded to a call after a pleasure boat began to sink off the Whitestone waterfront, and three people were pulled from the East River.
FDNY
Details of the Rescue Operation
Three people were pulled from the waters of the East River near the Whitestone shoreline after the 32-foot pleasure boat began taking on water, the FDNY announced Friday.
FDNY Marine Company 4 responded to a mayday call after the vessel struck an object in the water near the Whitestone Bridge and began to sink on the evening of May 20.
Rescue Efforts
FDNY Lt. David Torres was proud of his crew on Marine Rescue 4 after they removed three victims from the East River after the boat they were on began to sink off Whitestone. Photo courtesy of the FDNY
Marine 4, operated by Firefighter Kelly Lyons, pulled up alongside the stricken vessel and found three individuals clinging to the side of the boat, one with a head injury. Firefighter Eric Logan acted as a tether while Firefighter Tyler Hickey jumped into the water and made three separate trips despite a very strong current and brought each of the three victims to safety, according to FDNY Lieutenant David Torres. The three adults were treated on board Marine 4 for shock, hypothermia, and injuries before being transferred to EMS crews waiting at Fort Totten.
Crew’s Training and Experience
“We attended the summer boat program, a two-week, hands-on, and intense course that prepares us for every possible scenario,” Lt. Torres said. “Combined with our firefighting experience in high-stress situations where every second counts, we worked together, stayed in our lanes, and saved lives. It was incredible teamwork. I’m very proud of these guys.”
Conclusion
The successful rescue operation by FDNY Marine Rescue 4 is a testament to the crew’s training, experience, and teamwork. Their quick response and selfless actions saved the lives of three individuals who were stranded in the East River after their pleasure boat began to sink.
FAQs
- Q: What happened to the pleasure boat?
A: The 32-foot pleasure boat began taking on water after striking an object near the Whitestone Bridge and started to sink. - Q: How many people were rescued?
A: Three people were pulled from the East River by FDNY Marine Rescue 4. - Q: What injuries did the rescued individuals sustain?
A: The three adults were treated for shock, hypothermia, and injuries, with one individual having a head injury. - Q: Where were the rescued individuals taken after the rescue operation?
A: They were transferred to EMS crews waiting at Fort Totten for further medical attention.