Coast Guard responds to Sunken Dive Boat off Florida Keys
Two passengers were trapped under the hull of the dive vessel

Posted Wednesday, December 21, 2011

 
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MIAMI — The Coast Guard responded to a sunken charter boat with eight passengers near Islamorada, Fla., Sunday.

The 30-foot commercial diving vessel Get Wet started taking on water before it capsized near the Upper Florida Keys, trapping two of the passengers within the hull.

A good Samaritan reported the incident to the Coast Guard and assisted in the rescue of seven people. The eighth passenger—a 36-year-old female—was pronounced deceased.

The Coast Guard, along with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, responded to the incident, which took place at Molasses Reef. A commercial salvage company has been contacted to salvage the vessel.

"The Coast Guard is thankful for good Samaritans on the water who maintain a watchful eye and stand ready to assist boaters in distress," said Capt. Pat DeQuattro, commander of Coast Guard Sector Key West, Fla. "Our thoughts are with the family and friends of the victims of this tragic occurrence."