Piermont Fire Department Rescues Family from Sinking Boat on the Hudson River

By Rockland Daily Staff

The Piermont Fire Department responded to an emergency on the Hudson River involving a vessel taking on water.

The incident occurred two miles south of the Piermont Pier on the Rockland County side of the river.

Firefighters from Piermont, along with multiple fire and rescue units, quickly arrived on the scene with six divers and two EMTs. Upon arrival, it was evident that the boat was sinking rapidly, with approximately 2.5 feet of water already inside.

Acting swiftly, the Piermont dive team safely evacuated the females and toddlers from the sinking vessel, transferring them to the pilot house of the Piermont marine unit. A tow line was then secured to the vessel, and with the assistance of the Tarrytown Fire Department’s fireboat, a dewatering pump was installed to begin pumping out the water. The boat was subsequently transported to Cornetta's Marina, where it was lifted out of the water for further inspection.

The rescue also involved the Tarrytown Fire Department, Rockland County Sheriff's Office, Westchester County Police Department, Nyack Fire Department, and others. The coordinated effort ensured the safety of all individuals involved and averted what could have been a more serious situation.