CLEARWATER, Fla. – The aftermath of tonight’s boat crash involving the Clearwater Ferry near the Memorial Causeway bridge has taken a tragic turn, with authorities confirming one fatality resulting from the injuries sustained.
At the time of the collision, there were 45 people on board the ferry, including two crew members.
Law enforcement officials have announced that the boat which fled the scene after striking the ferry has been identified by another law enforcement agency. Details regarding the identity of the vessel and potential suspects have not yet been released.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) will now be taking the lead in the ongoing investigation into the crash.
PREVIOUS REPORT: Authorities have provided an update regarding the boat crash near the Memorial Causeway bridge that occurred at approximately 8:43 p.m. The incident involved the Clearwater Ferry, which had over 40 people on board at the time of the collision.
According to officials on the scene, all reported injuries were sustained by passengers on the Clearwater Ferry. The other vessel involved in the crash reportedly fled the scene immediately following the collision.
The impact resulted in significant injuries, with six patients designated as trauma alerts. Two of these critically injured individuals required immediate air transport for specialized medical care.
READ: Two Injured In Early Morning Boating Incident in Clearwater Pass
Despite the large number of passengers aboard the ferry, authorities have indicated that no one is currently believed to be missing from the vessel, which came to rest on a sandbar just south of the Memorial Causeway bridge. All passengers have been safely evacuated.
The United States Coast Guard and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) have launched a joint investigation into the hit-and-run crash. Their efforts will focus on identifying the fleeing vessel and its operator, as well as determining the cause of the collision.
This is a developing story.
ORIGINAL REPORT: Clearwater Police and Clearwater Fire & Rescue are currently responding to the scene of a boat crash with reported injuries near the Memorial Causeway bridge.
Authorities received the call at approximately 8:43 p.m. Initial reports indicate multiple individuals have sustained injuries in the incident.
Further updates regarding the extent of the injuries and the circumstances surrounding the crash will be released Clearwater Police Department and Clearwater Fire & Rescue. This story will be updated.
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