Marion First Responders Rescue 3 After Boat Overturns in Buzzards Bay

MARION — Police Chief Richard Nighelli and Fire Chief Brian Jackvony report that their departments cooperated to rescue three people after their boat capsized in Buzzards Bay in the early afternoon on Wednesday, June 11.

Marion’s emergency dispatchers received a 911 call reporting that three individuals fell in the water after their boat capsized at 12:46 p.m. near Bird Island.

Upon arrival, personnel from the Harbormaster Department, which is recognized under the Marion Police Department, observed three individuals in the water, all wearing life vests, before safely removing them from the water and bringing them aboard Harbormaster Patrol Boat MH-1. Acquisition of the patrol boat was approved by residents at the annual 2024 Marion Town Meeting.

Once safely onboard, Harbormaster personnel immediately began administering first aid and started assessing the individuals for injuries. All three individuals were then transported to the Marion Town Dock, where personnel from Marion EMS and the Marion Fire Department took over, providing further evaluation and additional medical care.

Two of the individuals from the capsized boat were brought to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

The air temperature was in the low 70s at the time of the incident, and the water temperature was 65.3 degrees at the time of the rescue.

After safely removing the three individuals from the water, the Mattapoisett Harbormaster Department also assisted with recovery operations, retrieving belongings lost as a result of the boat capsizing.

“I would like to thank our Harbormaster personnel for their prompt response, quickly rescuing these three individuals and bringing them back to shore, making sure they received proper medical treatment,” said Police Chief Nighelli. “If not for fast-acting rescue personnel, this situation could have easily turned tragic. Even as we approach the summer season, hypothermia is a very real potential danger whenever someone falls from a craft into coastal waters.”

“These swift, coordinated efforts between the Marion and Mattapoisett Harbormasters, Marion EMS, and Marion Fire Department ensured a safe rescue of all occupants, and no further injuries or navigation hazards have been reported,” said Harbormaster Murphy.

The incident remains under review. 

As boating season ramps up, Harbormaster Murphy asked that members of the public take extra precautions when they take to the waters.

“I’d like to use this occasion as a reminder to everyone to always use the proper safety equipment when you go out boating,” Harbormaster Murphy said. “Always wear a personal floatation device at all times while on the water. Please, stay safe and always be prepared in case of an emergency. If you have any further questions about safety requirements, please call the Marion Harbormaster Department.”

Anyone who has questions about safety requirements can contact the Marion Harbormaster Department at 508-748-3535.