Editor's Note: Click here to download PADET Jacksonville imagery.
CHARLESTON, S.C.— The Coast Guard and good Samaritans assisted four people Tuesday after their shrimping vessel began taking on water near St. Simons Island, Georgia.
Coast Guard Sector Charleston watchstanders received a notification at 10:33 p.m, via VHF-FM channel 16 marine radio, from the Joann B, a 75-foot shrimping vessel, stating their vessel was taking on water 4 miles east of St. Simons Island.
Watchstanders issued an urgent marine information broadcast notifying all mariners in the area of the distress, directing the launch of a Coast Guard Station Brunswick boat crew and a Coast Guard Air Station Savannah helicopter crew operating out of Charleston to respond.
The boat crew and air crew arrived on scene and began rendering assistance with three dewatering pumps. Good Samaritans from the fishing vessel Miss Vicky and commercial salvage also assisted with dewatering efforts.
Once flooding was under control, a temporary patch was applied to the vessel’s hull.
The Amber Dawn, a sister ship of the Joann B, safely towed the vessel to City Market Dock in Brunswick, Georgia.
No medical concerns were reported and the cause of the incident is under investigation.
“Careful coordination with Station Brunswick was instrumental in the successful execution of this case,” said Lt. Tucker Williams, helicopter co-pilot during the case. “Our crew and the station boat crew, together with the invaluable support of good Samaritans, showcased exceptional teamwork and dedication in assisting with the dewatering efforts, ensuring the safety and well-being of both the distressed vessel and all individuals on board."
For breaking news, follow us on Twitter. For additional information, find us on Facebook and Instagram.
-USCG-