A serious maritime incident unfolded Sunday evening in Clearwater, Florida, prompting first responders to activate mass casualty protocols.
The Clearwater Ferry, carrying over 40 passengers, was struck by another vessel near the Memorial Causeway Bridge. The striking boat subsequently left the scene, and authorities are currently working to identify it.
While a precise count of injuries remains unconfirmed, all reported casualties were among the ferry’s passengers.
Key details include:
- Two individuals sustained critical injuries and were airlifted to nearby hospitals via helicopter.
- All patients and passengers have been safely evacuated from the damaged ferry.
- The vessel ultimately grounded on a sandbar located south of the bridge following the impact.
According to Clearwater Police, “It’s been declared a mass casualty incident by the fire department due to the number of injuries. All local hospitals have been notified. Multiple trauma alerts have been called with helicopters transporting two of the more seriously injured. Drivers should avoid Memorial Causeway.” They shared this information via X.
This is a developing story, and further updates will be provided as they become available.
