U.S. Coast Guard rescues 4 people from boat fire, responds to overturned boat with 2 others

TEXAS – The U.S. Coast Guard had a busy Sunday when it rescued four people from a burning boat and responded to an overturned boat with two aboard, officials said.

Officials said the first incident was reported at 1:03 p.m. when four people aboard a Viking sport fishing boat were rescued from an uncontrollable boat fire near Surfside.

The second incident was reported at 1:44 p.m. when the Coast Guard responded to a call about a capsized boat near the Freeport Jetties. Officials said when they got to the overturned boat the two people aboard had already swum to shore wearing life jackets before they arrived.

“These are two examples of how proper safety gear will save your life; life rafts and life jackets,” said Zachery Edwards, a watchstander at the Coast Guard sector. “The VHF radio pinpointed the mariners position.”