Major Rescue Operation in Cowes After Fishing Boat Collision
A dramatic search unfolded in Cowes early Sunday after a fishing boat crashed into an obstruction in Cowes Harbour. Emergency services scrambled in force, including the Coastguard Rescue Helicopter 104, three coastguard teams, and lifeboats from Cowes and Calshot.
Boat Collision Sparks Search for Missing Man
The fishing vessel Loose Cannon collided violently near the river Medina’s entrance around 3am. Three men made it to shore, but one was initially reported missing.
Coastguard teams conducted thorough shoreline and aerial searches using infrared cameras, scanning between the river Medina and Gurnard Ledge.
Missing Man Contacts Police by Text
In a twist, the missing man sent a text confirming he was safe on the shoreline west of Cowes, near the Red Jet terminal. Police quickly cordoned off Trinity Landing, where the damaged Loose Cannon was moored.
Investigation Launched into Collision
Police and the Maritime & Coastguard Agency (MCA) have launched an inquiry into the incident.
The alarm was raised when the fishing boat Loose Cannon collided with an obstruction,” said a Cowes RNLI spokesperson. “The damaged boat drifted with the tide to Trinity Landing. Three people made it to shore, but one was initially missing.”
“We received multiple 999 calls around 3:00am after the boat hit a mooring in Cowes Harbour,” a Coastguard spokesman added. “The combined efforts of the Ventnor and Bembridge coastguard rescue teams, the Lee-on-Solent rescue helicopter, and RNLI lifeboats from Cowes and Calshot led to an extensive search. Hampshire Police and Isle of Wight Ambulance service were also on scene. Thankfully, the missing person was found ashore.”
The three men rescued were checked by ambulance crews before being taken to St Mary’s Hospital for treatment.
