Friday July, 19 2024 @ 12:16

Nature: Water Rescue Priority 1

Location: 38.624167~-75.090278

Address:  Savage Ditch – Massey’s Ditch area

On Friday afternoon, July 19^th, the Indian River Volunteer Fire Company was alerted to assist Rehoboth Beach (86) Fire Company with a water rescue incident in the Rehoboth Bay near Savage Ditch and Massey’s Ditch.  It was reported to be a 40 year male subject on a brown kayak that could not be located.

Emergency response units from Indian River included Utility 80-8 with 80 Marine 1 from the Oak Orchard facility, 80 Brush with 80 Marine 2 and Engine #80-1 from the Long Neck facility as well as the Delaware State Fire Police.

Emergency response units responded to the Massey’s Landing Public Boat Ramp for launching to navigate toward the assigned grid coordinates between the Savage Ditch and Massey’s Ditch area for searching.  All responding marine units from all entities were assigned tasks to assist in the search process.  The Delaware State Fire Police assigned to Indian River coordinated access for the public boat ramp during the incident.

Both 80 Marine units did arrive in the area commencing with its grid assignment before being cancelled as the kayaker was located with the assistance of the aviation unit.  Both kayakers were then reunited at the Indian River Inlet Marina with the assistance of DNREC.

All marine units were cleared to return to their designated quarters.