DETROIT – Multiple sailboats capsized in the Detroit River near Belle Isle as severe weather moved through southeast Michigan, triggering a large-scale rescue response.
Update: First responders honored after rescuing 12 people from capsized sailboats near Belle Isle
Officials said everyone involved is expected to be OK, and no serious injuries were reported.
The incident occurred on Wednesday (June 10) shortly after 7:30 p.m., the Detroit Fire Department was dispatched to Belle Isle near the beach following reports of a capsized boat and people in the water. A line of thunderstorms swept through the region earlier that evening, and the National Weather Service issued warnings ahead of them.
Fire crews, EMS personnel, Fireboat 2 (the Sivad Johnson), and Engine 27 responded to the scene.
Officials said it was the first day of service for at least one crew member aboard the fireboat.
Upon arrival, responders reported finding multiple small sailboats overturned in the river.
In total, 20 people were involved across seven sailboats.
Twelve were removed from the water during rescue operations, while eight others returned safely aboard two boats that remained upright.
The fireboat crew said they rescued four people from the water.
The Detroit Police Department Harbormaster rescued two others, while a private boater assisted three people.
Another three were brought to safety by a boat from a nearby boat club.
The operator of the sailing group said as many as 26 people were on the water at one point, but six returned to shore unassisted.
All those rescued declined medical treatment, officials said. Emergency personnel remained on scene to ensure all individuals were accounted for.
Officials praised the coordinated response among fire, police, and private boaters.
“The team responded quickly, worked seamlessly with our public safety partners and members of the community, and helped bring everyone safely to shore,” the Detroit Fire Department said in a statement.