Coast Guard Aircraft Airlifts Fisherman Suffering Stroke Symptoms Far Offshore from New Jersey

Unwell commercial fishermen 70 miles off New Jersey. A hazardous long-distance medical evacuation was completed by the US Coast Guard late Saturday morning.

Delaware Bay Coast Guard watchstanders received an urgent report of a fishing boat crew member having a stroke around 10:15 a.m. Coast Guard members prepared air and sea rescues for the injured sailor.

Atlantic City and Cape May Coast Guard Air Stations launched 45-foot reaction boats and MH-65 Dolphins. As stroke symptoms could develop without treatment, Coast Guard flight doctors advised landing.

In 10 knot winds and 5 foot seas, the chopper saw the fishing boat and moved the 39-year-old fisherman. Helicopter jet-landed Ocean Prowler.

In Atlantic City, Coast Guard plane hospitalized fisherman. Late Saturday night’s show didn’t address his ailment.

Fast Coast Guard reaction emphasizes offshore boat marine disaster planning. To save seriously injured sailors, watchstanders, flight doctors, aircrews, and boat crews must collaborate.

Sources:
U.S. Coast Guard official statement from the Coast Guard 5th District Public Affairs.