Drama on the Solent: Fishing Boat Sinks, Three in the Water!
A frantic search and rescue mission is underway in Langstone Harbour tonight after a mayday call from the 14-foot fishing vessel Kelkeir. The white and black boat, carrying three people, was spotted sinking off the Solent, with several crew members seen struggling in the water without lifejackets.
Emergency Services Rush to the Scene at Langstone Harbour
The distress call came in at around 7.30pm, sparking a multi-agency response. Langstone Harbour, nestled between Portsea Island, Hayling Island, and Langstone itself, turned into a hive of emergency activity. portsmouth/" title="Portsmouth" data-wpil-keyword-link="linked">Portsmouth RNLI lifeboat, Solent Coastguard helicopter 104, and the Lee on the Solent Coastguard team all scrambled to save the crew.
RNLI: Only One Lifejacket Onboard as Boat Began to Sink
Aaron Gent, spokesperson for the RNLI, stressed the dangers faced by inexperienced boaters in tricky waters. “Knowledge of the area is vital,” he said. The RNLI lifeboat launched shortly after 8pm, working alongside police and the coastguard helicopter to locate the stricken vessel. They managed to tow the Kelkeir onto a sandbank at the edge of Langstone Harbour.
Search Continues as Rescue Teams Work Overtime
The rescue operation is still ongoing, with teams combing the water for those who went overboard. So far, it appears only one lifejacket was on the boat—highlighting the mounting risks of fishing without proper safety gear.
Stay tuned for updates on this developing story.
