STAFFORD – Nine people were rescued after their boat struck a partially submerged dredge pipe and began sinking south of the Causeway Bridge, police said.
The Stafford Township Police Department Marine Unit received a distress call over VHF radio at about 12:38 p.m. Aug. 29. A passing boater reported the emergency about a mile south of the bridge and stayed nearby until officers arrived.
Sgt. Christopher Smith and Patrolman Andrew Moslowitz reached the boat within five minutes and found a 23-foot vessel partially underwater. All nine occupants were wearing life jackets.
Police determined the boat hit one of several partially submerged dredge pipes in the area. The collision severely damaged the boat’s outdrive, partially separating it from the vessel and allowing water to rush inside.
Officers transferred all nine occupants to the police boat. No injuries were reported.
The Marine Unit kept the damaged vessel afloat until Sea Tow arrived. The boat was then taken to the Ship Bottom boat ramp, where the occupants were reunited with family members.
Members of U.S. Coast Guard Station Barnegat Light were also headed to the scene but canceled their response after learning everyone had been safely removed.
Police reminded boaters to watch for navigational hazards, wear properly fitted life jackets and carry a reliable form of communication, such as a VHF marine radio.
The department also credited the passing boater who reported the emergency and remained with the sinking vessel until help arrived.
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