On Sunday, April 13, 2025, a tragic maritime incident occurred approximately 29 miles off the coast of St. Lucie Inlet, Florida, when a boat capsized, resulting in one confirmed fatality, four rescues, and five individuals still missing.Threads+4ABC News+4https://www.wflx.com+4
The U.S. Coast Guard initiated a search and rescue operation after a good Samaritan reported the overturned vessel. Upon arrival, Coast Guard crews rescued four individuals and recovered one deceased person from the water. The rescued individuals were transported via helicopter to Stuart Airport and then taken to Cleveland Clinic’s Martin South Hospital in Martin County. Among them, one person sustained serious injuries, while the other three had non-life-threatening injuries .ABC News+2WPTV News Channel 5 West Palm+2https://www.wflx.com+2https://www.wflx.com+2ABC News+2WPTV News Channel 5 West Palm+2
According to statements from the survivors, the vessel had departed from the Bahamas and capsized on Friday, April 11, indicating that the survivors endured nearly two days at sea before being rescued. The U.S. Coast Guard, in collaboration with Martin County Fire Rescue, continues the search for the five missing individuals, utilizing air and sea resources to cover the expansive search area .https://www.wflx.comWPTV News Channel 5 West Palm+3ABC News+3Log in or sign up to view+3
The cause of the capsizing remains under investigation. Authorities have not yet released information regarding the identities of the individuals involved or the specific circumstances leading to the incident. The ongoing search efforts underscore the challenges faced in maritime rescues, especially when dealing with delayed reports and vast oceanic areas.People.com+1People.com+1
This incident highlights the critical importance of maritime safety measures, including the use of life jackets, emergency communication devices, and adherence to weather advisories. As the search continues, the community holds hope for the safe recovery of the missing individuals and extends condolences to the families affected by this tragedy.