The Westport Police Department offers this update on yesterday’s rescue of more than 2 dozen Saugatuck Rowing Club teenagers:
Westport Police Marine Division continue the investigation into the boating incident. As of this morning, the following information is known:
- One of the capsized rowing sculls has not been recovered, and is missing. The other 2 sculls were brought to Ned Dimes Marina last night.
- The “chase boat” that sank has been located, submerged near Cockenoe Island, and will be recovered later this afternoon.
- Both rowers who were transported to Norwalk Hospital and treated for cold exposure have been released from the hospital.
- The total number of rowers/coaches involved in this incident stands at 29. We have determined that 19 people were in the water and 10 (9 rowers and 1 coach) were able to remain in their vessels.
- The investigation will focus on any weather advisories that were posted, available life jackets, experience of the rowers and coaches, and suitability of the vessels.
- As Chief Foti Koskinas stated last night, Westport Police are looking to help prevent this from happening again. We feel this investigation will aid in that mission.
Rescue operations yesterday, at Compo Beach. (Photo/Larry Hoy)