NEW YORK – A boater with serious injuries was medevaced and another sustained minor injuries after their 17-foot pleasure craft collided with a bridge in Norwich, Conn., around 6 p.m. today.
One individual appeared to be suffering from serious head and neck injuries and the other from what appeared to be a minor leg injury.
A 25-foot rescue boat crew from Coast Guard Station New London was on a routine patrol when they came across the damaged vessel near the Route 2 Bridge in Norwich. Coast Guard rescuers began first aid immediately.
“These people are extremely fortunate there happened to be a Coast Guard vessel in the area, in a different situation this could have easily resulted in a loss of life,” said Lt. Doug Miller, a Sector Long Island Sound watch supervisor.
A Norwich Fire Department rescue boat crew arrived shortly after and medevaced the individual suffering from head and neck injuries. He was taken to the Norwich Town Dock where local Emergency Medical Technicians were waiting.
The rescue crew from Station New London transported the other individual to the Norwich Town Dock.
Both individuals were taken to the William W. Backus hospital.
“Boaters should always exercise caution when transiting restricted waterways and bridges,” said Lt. Miller. “Speed, visibility and safety should always be first in any situation where there is an increased risk of collision.”
Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection is investigating this incident.
