Clearwater, FL — Tragedy struck off the coast of Clearwater on Sunday evening when a ferry carrying passengers was violently struck by another vessel in what authorities are now describing as a “hit-and-run” on the water. The collision, which occurred around 6:45 p.m. near Clearwater Beach, left at least one person dead and several others seriously injured, prompting a massive emergency response and a search for the boat that fled the scene.
According to the Clearwater Police Department and the U.S. Coast Guard, the ferry, which was returning from a sunset cruise with dozens of passengers on board, was struck on its port side by a high-speed recreational boat. Witnesses described a chaotic and terrifying scene as the smaller boat made no attempt to slow down, smashing into the ferry before speeding away into the darkening waters.
First responders from Clearwater Fire & Rescue, the U.S. Coast Guard, and multiple neighboring agencies quickly mobilized, pulling injured passengers from the ferry and rushing them to area hospitals. Authorities confirmed that one individual, whose identity has not yet been released pending notification of family, was pronounced dead at the scene. At least six others were hospitalized with injuries ranging from broken bones to head trauma, while dozens more were evaluated for shock and minor injuries.
“This is a heartbreaking and completely avoidable tragedy,” said Clearwater Police Chief Daniel Slaughter during a press conference late Sunday night. “Someone made the reckless and unconscionable decision to flee instead of helping those they injured. We will not rest until we find them and bring them to justice.”
The ferry was operated by a local tour company known for offering scenic cruises along Clearwater’s picturesque coastline. Company officials expressed deep sorrow over the incident and pledged full cooperation with the investigation.
Coast Guard officials launched both water and air search operations to locate the suspect vessel, believed to be a speedboat between 20 and 30 feet in length, possibly with visible damage to its bow or hull from the impact. They are urging anyone who witnessed the incident, or who may have seen a damaged vessel returning to a dock or marina, to come forward immediately.
Passengers recount harrowing moments:
Survivors of the crash described a scene of panic and confusion. “We were just laughing, taking pictures, and then suddenly there was this huge bang,” said Jessica Ramirez, a Clearwater resident who was aboard the ferry. “People were thrown out of their seats. Some fell into the water. It was like a nightmare.”
Others recounted the heroic actions of the ferry crew and fellow passengers, who quickly administered first aid and helped pull injured people to safety.
Wider implications for boating safety:
Sunday’s tragedy has reignited discussions about waterway safety in Florida, a state that consistently ranks among the highest in the nation for boating accidents. Advocates are calling for stricter enforcement of maritime laws, including mandatory safety training and harsher penalties for hit-and-run incidents on the water.
“This kind of reckless behavior endangers everyone on the water,” said Captain Sara Mendoza of the U.S. Coast Guard’s St. Petersburg Sector. “Boating is a privilege, not a right. With privilege comes the responsibility to operate vessels safely and to render aid if an accident occurs.”
As the Clearwater community grieves, a growing memorial of flowers and candles has been placed at the marina where the ferry launched earlier that evening. Grief counselors have been made available to survivors and their families as they process the traumatic events.
Authorities are asking anyone with information to contact the Clearwater Police Department tip line or the U.S. Coast Guard immediately. A reward may be offered for information leading to the apprehension of the suspect responsible for this devastating incident.
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