Clicky

Five rescued after raft drifts two miles off Long Island beach

|

Marine police and firefighters in Riverhead combined efforts on Sunday to rescue five people who had become stranded on a raft in the Long Island Sound.

Riverhead Police Marine Unit and Dive Team members, together with members of the Riverhead Fire Department, went into action about 9:30 a.m., after police received an emergency call from a person on the raft describing their perilous situation.

Members of the group had been fishing when the current and wind blew them two miles away from Reeves Beach, police said.

Riverhead Police used a drone to quickly locate the raft. The marine unit police then found the raft and transported all five unharmed back to shore.  Firefighters transported the raft back to shore.

The owner of the raft was issued several summons for imprudent operation (for being over capacity) and insufficient safety gear (missing life preservers and an anchor).

Reeves Beach — known for its tranquil atmosphere and picturesque views — typically offers a serene escape along the Long Island Sound.

Top photo: Aerial view of Reeves Beach in Riverhead (Facebook)

Our Local Supporters