Drama at Paddington Basin as Narrow Boat Sinks in Dead of Night
Emergency services rushed to Paddington Basin in West London just before 1am on Sunday after reports of a sinking narrow boat. Police, fire crews, and the London Ambulance Service’s specialist “Hart” team were all scrambled to the scene.
Boat Takes on Water – Passengers Flee
Witnesses saw those onboard scrambling to evacuate the distressed vessel as it began to sink. It remains unclear why the boat took on water or if anyone ended up in the freezing canal.
Rescue Teams Gear Up for Possible Water Rescue
Firefighters from the London Fire Brigade and “Hart” teams dressed in dry suits were spotted ready with throw lines and rescue gear near St Mary’s Hospital. Crews worked quickly to assist the boat owner in trying to stop the flood of water.
All Aboard Have Self-Rescued, Report Says
A London Fire Brigade spokeswoman confirmed the call came through around 12:55am for a 15-ton narrow boat taking on water. Thankfully, all passengers managed to get off safely before emergency crews arrived.
Both the London Ambulance Service and London Fire Brigade are investigating the cause of the incident as they continue their work at the scene.
