Boat Collides With Harbor Break Wall, 4 Injured: Stamford Fire

STAMFORD, CT — Four people were injured Saturday night after, fire officials say, a boat collided with the Stamford Harbor break wall.

"This incident is a sobering reminder of how quickly things can go wrong on the water—especially at night,” said Deputy Fire Chief Philip Hayes in a prepared statement. "Always have enough lifejackets for everyone on board, and follow key safety practices after dark: slow down because visibility is reduced, share lookout duties, preserve your night vision, watch carefully for red and green navigation aids, listen closely for other vessels, and use your navigation instruments—especially radar if your vessel is equipped. Preparedness and caution can save lives."

Stamford emergency dispatch received an automated iPhone alert at approximately 9:59 p.m. that indicated a possible motor vehicle crash, but dispatchers determined the alert was triggered by a boating incident, the Stamford Fire Department said in a news release.

Land-based units as well as personnel from the Stamford Fire Marine Unit responded to the scene and found a center-console boat that had collided with the harbor break wall and was taking on water, the SFD said.

"Four individuals were on board and all sustained injuries," the SFD said. "Two female passengers with the most significant injuries were immediately brought aboard Fireboat 236, where firefighters initiated medical care during transport to Czescik Marina. Stamford EMS met the boat at the marina and transported the patients to Stamford Hospital."

Stamford Police and two male occupants tried to stabilize the boat and prevent it from sinking, but it could not be saved, the SFD said. The two men were taken to Czescik Marina and turned over to EMS personnel for further care.

Fireboat 236 later returned to the scene to secure and mark the boat's location for pending salvage operations. The Noroton Fire Department and Darien Police Department Marine Units also provided assistance during the incident.