Good Samaritans saves five Kenai boaters from vessel fire near Homer

Editor's note: To listen to the Snake Red River's mayday call received by Sector Anchorage click here. To listen to the Urgent Marine Information Broadcast click here.

JUNEAU, Alaska - The crew of the good Samaritan vessel Happy Hooker rescued five Kenai boaters aboard the 36-foot pleasure craft Snake River Red which was engulfed in flames in Kachemak Bay 13 miles west of Homer at 10:50 a.m. Thursday.

Greg Lindhartsen, Gloria Adkins, Linda Mullens and two children were pulled to safety just after sending a mayday call which was received by Coast Guard Sector Anchorage command center watchstanders who immediately issued an Urgent Marine Information Broadcast.

The crew of the Happy Hooker responded and was on scene within five minutes to safely rescue the five people. The rescued boaters were safely brought to the marina in Homer at 12:25 p.m. with no reported injuries.

"We are thankful for the good Samaritan vessel Happy Hooker to swiftly and safely rescue the five people from their vessel that was on fire," said Petty Officer 3rd Class Sheli Lovelace, a communications controller in the command center at Sector Anchorage. "Good Samaritan vessels are often closer than Coast Guard assets and we are thankful for those who respond when a call for help is needed."

The vessel was estimated to have 150 gallons of diesel on board. No pollution has been reported.

The cause of the fire is unknown.

###

Saving Lives and Guarding the Coast Since 1790.
The United States Coast Guard -- Proud History. Powerful Future.

printer friendly