Fort Myers, FL, USA - May 31, 2024

On May 31, the Marine Unit sprang into action at the Caloosahatchee Bridge to avert a potentially catastrophic collision involving a large, out-of-control boat.

Responding swiftly to the scene, deputies were met with a tense situation as a 65-foot boat drifted perilously towards the bridge's support structure. Recognizing the imminent danger, deputies wasted no time in executing a plan to prevent disaster.

With the boat's anchors tangled and dragging along the river bottom, deputies initiated a side-tow maneuver to slow its momentum. Simultaneously, they crafted a de-anchoring bridle to secure a tow line, allowing for greater control over the vessel's movement.

Through their unwavering dedication and maritime expertise, Marine Deputies successfully steered the boat clear of the bridge and repositioned its anchors, averting a potentially devastating collision.