A tragic incident occurred in Clearwater, Florida, on Sunday night when a boat collided with a ferry, resulting in one death and multiple injuries. The Clearwater Ferry, carrying 45 passengers, was struck by the boat, which then fled the scene. Following the collision, the ferry came to rest on a sandbar beneath the Memorial Causeway Bridge. Clearwater Police reported that the vessel responsible for the accident has been identified, with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission leading the subsequent investigation.
One individual succumbed to injuries sustained in the crash, though the total number of injured passengers remains unclear. However, all those injured were safely removed from the ferry. Two of the injured required helicopter transport to hospitals, one suffering a femur fracture, while another’s injuries were reported as unknown. Due to the scale of injuries, the Clearwater Fire Department labeled the event a “mass casualty incident,” with six trauma alerts issued.
Police are actively involved in ensuring that all individuals who were on board the ferry are accounted for, expressing confidence that all have been rescued. In addition to Clearwater law enforcement, the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office and the Coast Guard are assisting in the investigation. A spokesperson from Clearwater Ferry acknowledged the accident but withheld additional details, citing the ongoing inquiry.
The incident underscores the gravity of maritime collisions and their impact on public safety in the region. Clearwater is situated approximately 23 miles northwest of St. Petersburg, Florida.
Photo credit
www.nbcnews.com
