Quick-Thinking FHP Trooper Helps Rescue Stranded Boaters

ST. PETERSBURG, FL - A quick-thinking Florida Highway Patrol trooper found a way to rescue three boaters near the Sunshine Skyway Bridge Sunday afternoon after their boat overturned. While checking the North Rest Area near the bridge, Cpl. Jim Covert saw an overturned boat about 200 yards offshore with three boaters sitting atop the vessel, according to a Florida Highway Patrol report.

He called for assistance and learned that no rescue vessels were in the area. That’s when the fast-thinking corporal spotted David Teichman, 26, of St. Petersburg, near the Rest Area with his jet ski. Teichman traveled to the small overturned vessel and safely transported the three boaters to shore, FHP said. The boaters were not identified.

The boaters had launched from St. John’s Pass, traveled to the Skyway Bridge, and had begun to take on water. Large waves capsized their boat.

St. Petersburg Fire Rescue, the U.S. Coast Guard and the Florida Fish & Wildlife Commission also responded to the incident.

Photo via Florida Highway Patrol