Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Rescuers Save 3 Federal Agents and 2 Boaters After Twin Capsizings Off Puerto Rico

Officials say 10-foot swells over reefs forced an air rescue that shows the risks responders accept.

Overview

  • The rescue off Isla de Cabras near San Juan, which began Tuesday night after police alerted Coast Guard watchstanders just after 9 p.m., unfolded in rough seas and darkness.
  • Coast Guard issued an Urgent Marine Information Broadcast to warn boaters after a Good Samaritan reported a 22-foot capsized boat and gave its position.
  • A CBP marine unit trying to reach the scene in 10-foot swells flipped over, throwing three federal agents into the water.
  • A Puerto Rico police helicopter lifted one agent and one boater, and a Coast Guard Jayhawk sent a rescue swimmer who hoisted the remaining three people.
  • All five were taken to Fernando Luis Ribas Dominicci Airport for treatment of minor injuries as officials praised tight coordination and warned that reefs can block surface access in heavy surf.