Florida Boat Capsizes: 1 Dead, Coast Guard Searches for 3 Missing, Including 2 Children

The U.S. Coast Guard, alongside multiple local agencies, is relentlessly searching for three missing individuals—a father and his two young children—following a devastating boating accident on the St. Johns River near Goat Island. The tragic incident, which occurred Friday evening, has already claimed one life and left a community in shock.

The disaster unfolded when an 18-foot vessel carrying eight passengers capsized around 7 p.m., trapping four individuals beneath the overturned boat while four others clung to the hull. Authorities were alerted shortly after, triggering an urgent and large-scale rescue operation.

Upon receiving the distress call, the Coast Guard Sector Jacksonville swiftly mobilized its response teams, dispatching both a rescue boat and a helicopter. They were joined by units from the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office (JSO), the Jacksonville Fire and Rescue Department (JFRD), and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC). The coordinated effort aimed to locate and recover all passengers as quickly as possible.

“The four people on top of the vessel were rescued by a Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office marine unit,” the Coast Guard confirmed in a statement. Unfortunately, none of the survivors had been wearing life jackets, a detail that underscores the importance of proper boating safety measures.

Tragically, one individual was found unresponsive in the water and later pronounced dead. Authorities have not yet released the victim’s identity pending notification of family members.

Despite extensive efforts, the three individuals who were trapped beneath the capsized vessel—believed to be a man and his two children—remain unaccounted for. A rescue swimmer from Coast Guard Station Mayport attempted to make contact under the vessel but received no response. JSO divers conducted an underwater search, but no additional individuals were located.

The Coast Guard and its partners have since expanded their search area, deploying additional boats, sonar equipment, and aerial surveillance to scan the waters around Goat Island. Search efforts have been ongoing through the night, with authorities committed to finding the missing family members.

“This is a heartbreaking situation, and our teams are doing everything they can,” said Capt. Eric Prosswimmer of the Jacksonville Fire Rescue Department. “Our hearts go out to the victims’ families, and we are determined to bring them the answers and closure they need.”

Officials have launched an investigation to determine the cause of the accident. While conditions on the river at the time of the incident have not yet been confirmed, boating accidents can be caused by factors such as sudden weather changes, strong currents, or operator error.

The St. Johns River, one of Florida’s largest waterways, is known for its shifting tides and unpredictable conditions. According to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, there were 735 reportable boating accidents in the state last year, with drowning being the leading cause of fatalities. Many of these incidents involved passengers not wearing life jackets.

Authorities stress that while boating is a popular recreational activity, safety measures must always be a priority. In Florida, children under six are required by law to wear life jackets on boats smaller than 26 feet. However, safety experts recommend that all passengers, regardless of age, wear life jackets at all times while on the water.

The tragic accident has sent shockwaves through the Jacksonville community. Family members and friends of the missing have gathered near the riverbank, anxiously awaiting updates. Vigils are being planned, and support has poured in from locals, offering prayers and assistance to the affected families.

Meanwhile, local officials are urging all boaters to exercise extreme caution on the water, particularly as warmer months bring increased boating activity. “This is a stark reminder of the risks that come with being on the water,” said an FWC spokesperson. “We encourage everyone to take all necessary precautions to protect themselves and their loved ones.”

As search and rescue operations continue, the Coast Guard and local agencies remain steadfast in their mission to locate the missing individuals. The collaboration between the Coast Guard, Jacksonville authorities, and state wildlife officials highlights the strength and dedication of first responders in times of crisis.

“We will not stop searching until we have exhausted every possible lead,” said a Coast Guard spokesperson. “Our teams are working around the clock to bring these individuals home.”

As the search enters its second full day, the entire Jacksonville community holds onto hope for a miracle. The resolve of rescue crews remains unwavering, and the nation watches as these dedicated responders work tirelessly to bring answers to the grieving families.

This developing story will be updated as more information becomes available.