georgia

Coast Guard Rescues Crew After Boat Explodes North of Jacksonville

The fishing vessel Predator caught fire, prompting the four-man crew to send a mayday call

U.S. Coast Guard crews rescued four fisherman early Thursday morning after their boat caught fire and exploded near St. Simons Island Sound, Georgia – just north of Jacksonville, Florida.

A Coast Guard vessel located and rescued the crew and their dog from the 58-foot fishing vessel Predator, officials said in a news release.

Coast Guard authorities received a mayday call from the fishing vessel crew at 3:53 a.m. saying their vessel had caught fire, and they were abandoning ship. Crews launched and located the vessel. The fishermen were rescued at 4:25 a.m. and taken to the Coast Guard station where emergency medical services were waiting.

The crew sustained minor injuries but were reported to be in good condition. An urgent marine broadcast is being issued, warning other mariners of debris and hazards in the area, Coast Guard officials said.

The cause of the fire in under investigation.

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