Animals
Breaching Whale Sinks New Jersey Fire Boat On Fourth Of July
A New Jersey fire boat working marine security for the Fourth of July was “violently struck” by a whale while returning to its home port, leading to “catastrophic damage,” officials said.
The Carteret Fire Department and EMS Division said its Marine Unit 2 had complete security operations in the New York–New Jersey Port area and was returning to Carteret waters at around 4:30 p.m. on July 4 when it was “violently struck” from underneath by a surfacing whale.
The whale breached south of the Arthur Kill at the mouth of Raritan Bay, striking beneath the stern of the fire boat. Firefighters had only “seconds” to abandon the vessel as it began taking on water.
Photos shared by Carteret Mayor Dan Reiman show Marine Unit 2 almost fully submerged after the strike.
A good Samaritan on a Jet Ski and another on a boat “immediately came to the aid” of personnel in the water, along with the Perth Amboy Fire Department Marine Unit and FMBA Local 58/258. All firefighters were safely rescued, and no injuries were reported.
“A special thanks to the recreational jet ski operator and additional boater, as well as the Perth Amboy Fire Dept Marine crew, for fishing our guys out of the channel,” Reiman said in a statement.
“Every member aboard was wearing the required personal flotation device, which played a critical role in keeping them safe until rescuers arrived,” the fire department said. “We encourage all boaters, jet ski operators, kayakers, and anyone enjoying the water to always wear a life jacket.”
A recreational boater in the area reported seeing a pod of whales periodically breaching both before and after the incident.
The incident is “under review,” Reiman said.
“Understandably, it has left those involved shaken, but we are incredibly thankful that everyone returned home safely to their families,” the fire department said. “The Carteret Fire Department & EMS Division extend their heartfelt gratitude to all who offered assistance, support, and prayers following this incident.”
