Coast Guard rescues 5 people, including 2 kids, seen clinging to capsized boat near Crystal River

CRYSTAL RIVER, Fla. (WFLA) — Coast Guard crews rescued five people, including two children, who were seen clinging to a capsized boat near Crystal River on Sunday.

Authorities said the Sea Tow Crystal River dispatch contacted Coast Guard Sector St. Petersburg watchstanders around 6 p.m. Sunday, reporting that five people needed help after their 18-foot boat capsized 10 miles west of Crystal River.

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Two hours later, Coast Guard Air Station Clearwater MH-60T Jayhawk helicopter aircrew, Coast Guard Station Yankeetown boat crew and commercial salvage crew spotted all five people clinging to their vessel.

They were taken to Pete’s Pier Marina to be checked out. No one reported any injuries.

“Our crews were able to conduct the rescue safely and efficiently with the best possible results,” said Lt. Scott Kellerman, Coast Guard Air Station Clearwater MH-60T Aircraft Commander. “Emergencies at sea can happen anytime, anywhere. We recommend all mariners carry a radio, flares and other distress signals in case they encounter an unexpected situation.”

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