Coast Guard assists 2 on vessel taking on water near Portsmouth, VA

U.S. Coast Guard sent this bulletin at 10/12/2017 11:03 AM EDT

united states coast guard 

News Release  

Oct. 12, 2017
U.S. Coast Guard 5th District Mid-Atlantic
Contact: 5th District Public Affairs
Office: (757) 398-6272
After Hours: (757) 434-7712

Coast Guard assists 2 on vessel taking on water near Portsmouth, VA

 

PORTSMOUTH, Va. — The Coast Guard assisted two people aboard a vessel taking on water early this morning near the West Norfolk Bridge in Portsmouth.

Watchstanders in the Coast Guard Sector Hampton Roads Command Center in Portsmouth received notification at about 1:10 a.m. that a 30-foot vessel with two people aboard was taking on water near the east side of the West Norfolk Bridge.

A Coast Guard 29-foot Response Boat-Small crew launched from Station Portsmouth and  arrived on scene. The vessel's bilge pumps were working but the engines would not start up. 

The Station Portsmouth crew towed the vessel to City Park Boat Ramp in Portsmouth where the vessel was safely trailored.

“This case demonstrates how having a working radio or charged cellphone is vital for contacting the Coast Guard when an emergency happens,” said Petty Officer 3rd Class Travis Marks, Station Portsmouth coxswain for the case. “We encourage all mariners to file a float plan and inspect all their gear before getting underway.” 

No injuries or pollution were reported. 

 

-USCG-