The NY Waterway service assisted the NYPD today in a water rescue of a capsized boat in the Hudson River. The incident occurred close to Pier 79 near the Midtown Ferry Terminal around 3PM. Twelve people were involved in the accident, including the boat’s captain.
The NYPD and FDNY responded with marine and land units just after 2:45 PM. According to an NBC4 story, the 18-foot boat capsized near Pier 78, and all 12 passengers entered the river. The boat was a pleasure boat that had been chartered from New Jersey. By the time first responders arrived on the scene, nine passengers had been rescued by the NY Waterway ferry crews. FDNY and NYPD rescue divers were involved in the rescue. According to an ABC7 story, two people were killed, eight others are in stable condition, and two others are in critical condition including the boat’s captain. The two victims are a 7-year-old boy and a 50-year-old woman.
According to the NY Waterway Twitter account, two of its boats were involved in the rescue. The crews of the Garden State and the John Stevens arrived on site and rescued nine passengers. The company said in a statement: “We are so proud of the NY Waterway captains and crews that leapt into action today to rescue boaters following the maritime accident in the Hudson. Their training and professionalism saved lives, as they have countless times before.”
We are so proud of the NY Waterway captains and crews that leapt into action today to rescue boaters following the maritime accident in the Hudson. Their training and professionalism saved lives, as they have countless times before. pic.twitter.com/dZ2I3or5aG
— NY Waterway (@ridetheferry) July 12, 2022
(Credit: @ridetheferry)
At a press conference, NY Mayor Eric Adams reminded citizens that the Hudson River is both beautiful and dangerous. “It’s a clear reminder that the water is an enjoyable part of New York, but it can be a dangerous place,” he said. “I want to remind you to be safe as you are on the water.”
NYPD Commissioner Keechant Sewell credited both the emergency responders and the NY Waterway crews for the rescues. “This is a tragic day for New Yorkers. It could have been much worse if it wasn’t for the incredible effort by not only our extraordinary first responders, but also the swift response from the NY Waterway ferries.”
This story is still unfolding. The Hoboken Girl will continue to update this article as more information becomes available.
