Coast Guard Sector St. Petersburg was notified that after both vessels collided, a 14-year-old boy fell overboard and sustained lacerations to his arm from a propeller.
The responding boat crew arrived on scene where they provided first aid and transported the injured boy to EMS at Merry Pier to receive a higher level of care.
“Our boat crew was able to rescue the seriously injured young man quickly and efficiently, due to proper use of channel 16 and assistance from good samaritans,” said Petty Officer 2nd Class Nicholas Jennings, Coast Guard Station St. Petersburg boat crew member. “The situation was very unfortunate but had the best potential outcome. It is incredibly important for mariners to keep a proper lookout when running their vessel regardless of location.”