(CARTERET, N.J.) — On July 4, at approximately 4:30 p.m. while conducting a regional special operations marine security detail for the New York/New Jersey Port area, Carteret Fire Department Marine Unit 2 was involved in a serious marine incident while returning to Carteret waters.
CFD Marine 2 was violently struck beneath the stern by a surfacing whale that breached the water south of the Arthur Kill at the mouth of Raritan Bay, causing catastrophic damage to the vessel. The boat immediately began taking on water, leaving the firefighters aboard only seconds to abandon the vessel.
No injuries were sustained. A nearby recreational vessel reported observing a pod of whales breaching the water both before and after the incident. The circumstances surrounding the incident remain under review, and additional information will be shared as it becomes available.
Carteret Fire Department extends its sincere appreciation to the recreational jet ski operator and additional boater who immediately came to the aid of the firefighters, as well as the members of the Perth Amboy Fire Department Marine Unit and FMBA Local 58/258 for assisting in safely rescuing the firefighters from the channel.
This incident also serves as an important reminder of the value of wearing a properly fitted life jacket. Every member aboard was wearing the required personal flotation device, which played a critical role in keeping them safe until rescuers arrived.
– Carteret Fire Department via Facebook
