TAMPA, Fla. — Hillsborough County deputies sprang into action on a Sunday when a distress call alerted them to a boat in trouble near the Sunshine Skyway Bridge. At 4 a.m., the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office received the call and dispatched their marine unit to investigate the situation.
Navigating through the darkness, deputies followed a distant flashing light, ultimately locating the stranded boat with two passengers on board—a man and a woman. The occupants recounted their ordeal, explaining that they had encountered mechanical issues before their boat began taking on water.
The female passenger expressed the gravity of their situation, describing it as a “nightmare” in a statement captured by an HCSO body camera.
By the time the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office arrived on the scene, the boat had been disabled for several hours. Despite dropping anchor, it continued to drift, eventually passing beneath the Sunshine Skyway Bridge. The sound of passing cars served as a stark reminder of their perilous situation.
The boaters, now feeling seasick due to the choppy waters, had no choice but to endure the circumstances. The male passenger noted that the night was supposed to be calm but turned out to be anything but.
Fortunately, the boaters made it safely to shore, thanks to the swift action of the HCSO. Miraculously, they suffered no injuries during the incident.
Sheriff Chad Chronister praised his team’s quick response and expert training, expressing gratitude for their dedication and professionalism. He emphasized that even in the most challenging situations, the deputies embody the core values of the sheriff’s office, reinforcing their commitment to protecting and serving the community.