Friday July, 3 2026 @ 23:34

Nature: Water Rescue Priority 1 – Massey’s Ditch Area

Location: 38 37'31 and 75 5'47,

On Friday evening, July 3^rd, the Indian River (80), Millsboro (83) and Dagsboro (73) fire companies were alerted for water rescue incident involving a boat stuck in the marsh with injuries. Additional emergency alerts included the Mid Sussex Rescue Squad, the Sussex County Paramedics, the Delaware State Police – Aviation Unit – Trooper 2, the DNREC Marine Police, and the United States Coast Guard – Indian River Squadron.  It was reported that a boat was stuck in the mud with potential injuries.

Emergency response units from Indian River included Utility 80-8 with 80 Marine 1 and Rescue 80 from the Oak Orchard facility; Utility 80-11 with 80 Marine 2 and Squad 80 from the Long Neck facility.

Emergency response crews launched both Indian River Marine units from Massey’s Landing Public Boat Ramp with EMS personnel aboard and traversed to the designated incident location.  Additional marine units from Millsboro and Dagsboro were cancelled as well as aviation.

It appears a that a vessel was navigating the Massey’s Ditch area and reported swerving and ended up in the marshy area adjacent to the ditch.  80 Marine 2 was able to establish dialogue with the vessel occupant awaiting arrival of 80 Marine 1 to establish entry into the marshy area for person extrication measures.  The vessel occupant was transported back to the Massey’s Landing Public Boat Ramp for additional EMS evaluation.

The Delaware State Fire Police coordinated traffic control and public ramp access for emergency response apparatus.

The DNREC – Marine Police are investigating and coordinating the removal of the vessel.