Coast Guard terminates vessel voyage for boating under the influence near Fleming Key

News Release

U.S. Coast Guard 7th District Southeast Contact: 7th District Public Affairs Office: 305-415-6683 After Hours: 786-367-7649 7th District online newsroom

Coast Guard terminates vessel voyage for boating under the influence near Fleming Key

 

KEY WEST, Fla. - The Coast Guard terminated the voyage of a 20-foot vessel with eight people aboard for boating under the influence after it collided with a navigation light near Fleming Key.

Sector Key West watchstanders received notification from a good Samaritan, the 20-foot center console collided with Garrison Bight Channel Light #3 causing injury to two passengers and ejecting one person who was recovered.

A Coast Guard Station Key West 33-foot Special Purpose Craft- Law Enforcement boatcrew arrived on scene and transported the two injured people to emergency medical services.

A Coast Guard Station Key West 24-foot Special Purpose Craft- Shallow Water boatcrew arrived on scene to assess remaining passengers and damage to Garrison Bight Channel Light #3.

The operator was cited by the Coast Guard for boating under the influence, gross negligence and an inadequate number of lifejackets. He was then arrested by Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.

The remaining passengers were transported to shore with no reported injuries.

“Boating under the influence is just as deadly as driving under the influence,” said Petty Officer 1st Class Ryan Andzelik, a Coast Guard Sector Key West watchstander. The Coast Guard will not tolerate putting yourselves and others in danger on the water. You wouldn't get in your vehicle intoxicated, don't get in your boat intoxicated.”

Garrison Bight Channel Light #3 was on station and lighting properly.

For more breaking news follow us on Twitter.

-USCG-