NEW YORK (1010 WINS) — Three people were thankfully rescued by the FDNY’s Marine Division on Tuesday night when their boat went down in the East River, sending them plunging into the waters.
FDNY Marine Company 4 responded to a mayday call made over a VHF radio after a boat struck an object and began to sink near the Whitestone Bridge, the agency said on social media.
Firefighter Kelly Lyons was operating the ship, and upon arrival the first responders noticed three people clinging to the boat, one of whom had a head injury.
Firefighter Eric Kogan served as a tether while Firefighter Tyler Hickey jumped into the water to begin the rescue. Hickey made three separate trips amid a very strong current to bring the victims to safety, responding FDNY Lt. David Torres said.
All three victims were treated on board for shock, hypothermia and injuries before being transferred to EMS at Fort Totten. No further updates on their condition were given.
“We attended the summer boat program, a two-week, hands-on, and intense course that prepares us for every possible scenario,” Torres said of FDNY Marine 4. “Combined with our firefighting experience in high-stress situations where every second counts, we worked together, stayed in our lanes, and saved lives. It was incredible teamwork. I am very proud of these guys.”