Blog Post


COAST GUARD RESPONDS TO BURNING FISHING VESSEL

Posted by: James M. Beard
September 25, 2009
Topic: Vessel Sinkings

The Coast Guard reported that it has responded to a fishing vessel fire in Corpus Christi Bay. A Coast Guard rescue helicopter was in the air when it spotted smoke coming from a fishing vessel. The rescue helicopter diverted and responded and found two crewmembers in a life raft next to the burning fishing vessel. A rescue swimmer found that one of the crewmembers had suffered burns to 20% of his body and was showing signs of shock. The crewmember was immediately hoisted and transported to the hospital. The other crewmember and rescue swimmer were left with a Good Samaritan vessel and a second rescue helicopter was sent to recover them.

There is no indication of how the fishing vessel caught fire or the current status of the fishing vessel.

The second crewmember is said to be in stable condition. The condition of the first crewmember is unknown.