Nine Rescued After Boat Begins Taking On Water in Ocean County
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September 2, 2026Nine Rescued After Boat Begins Taking On Water in Ocean County
Nine Rescued After Boat Begins Taking On Water in Ocean County
MANAHAWKIN, NJ — Nine people were rescued Saturday afternoon after a boat began sinking south of the Causeway Bridge in Manahawkin, according to Stafford Police.
The Stafford police marine unit received a distress call around 12:38 p.m. while officers were conducting routine weekend patrols on the water, police said in a news release.
The caller, a boater who happened to be passing by, reported that a vessel was taking on water about a mile south of the bridge. The boater stayed with the stricken vessel until police arrived.
Sgt. Christopher Smith and Patrolman Andrew Moslowitz responded immediately and reached the boat in roughly five minutes, authorities said.
Officers found a 23-foot vessel partially submerged with nine people aboard. All nine occupants were wearing life jackets when police arrived.
Police said the boat struck one of several dredge pipes that were partially submerged in the area, causing major damage to its outdrive. The impact partially broke the outdrive away from the vessel, allowing water to quickly flood the boat.
All nine occupants were safely moved onto the Stafford Township Police Marine Unit vessel, and no injuries were reported.
Once everyone was out of danger, marine unit officers worked to keep the damaged boat afloat until Sea Tow arrived. The vessel was then towed to the Ship Bottom boat ramp with assistance from Sea Tow.
The nine people were also taken to the Ship Bottom boat ramp, where family members were waiting to meet them.
Following the rescue, police reminded boaters to stay alert for potential hazards on the water and to make sure properly fitted life jackets are available and worn when necessary. Authorities also stressed the importance of having a dependable way to call for help, particularly a VHF marine radio, during emergencies.
The department also praised the passing boater who first reported the sinking vessel and stayed at the scene until emergency responders arrived.
Police said the boater's actions highlighted the importance of looking out for fellow boaters and helping others in distress on the water.
