CLEARWATER, FLORIDA — Clearwater ferry accident A peaceful ferry ride turned into a chaotic and frightening scene Sunday night when a boat slammed into a ferry carrying dozens of passengers near Clearwater’s Memorial Causeway Bridge — and then fled the scene.
Authorities have declared the event a “mass casualty incident,” as first responders rushed to treat and transport injured passengers.
Ferry Struck, Dozens Injured
The Clearwater Police Department confirmed that the ferry, operated by Clearwater Ferry Services, had more than 40 people onboard when it was struck by an unidentified boat that fled without stopping.
Emergency responders raced to the scene after receiving distress calls around 8:30 p.m. local time. According to police, all reported injuries were sustained by ferry passengers.
Two individuals were critically hurt and required immediate air transport to nearby trauma centers by helicopter.
As of 10:30 p.m., authorities said all patients had been evacuated from the ferry and transported to hospitals across the region. Fire officials formally declared the crash a “mass casualty incident” due to the high number of injuries.
Ferry Rested on Sandbar After Collision
Following the impact,Clearwater ferry accident the ferry came to a stop on a sandbar just south of the Memorial Causeway Bridge.
Police urged drivers and boaters to avoid the area late into the night as rescue and investigation efforts continued.
“All local hospitals have been notified,” Clearwater ferry accident Clearwater Police said in a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter). “Multiple trauma alerts have been activated.”
Search Underway for Boat That Fled
At this time, little is known about the boat responsible for the crash. Clearwater Police confirmed the striking vessel left the scene before authorities could arrive.
Investigators are now appealing to anyone who may have witnessed the collision or seen a suspicious boat in the area to come forward with information.
Police have not yet released details about the type of boat involved or any possible descriptions of those onboard.
Community on Edge After Shocking Incident
Clearwater ferry accident Sunday night’s collision has left Clearwater residents and visitors stunned.
The Memorial Causeway Bridge is a busy area, especially on weekends, with ferries and recreational boats frequenting the scenic waters.
“This could have been even worse,” one first responder said, speaking anonymously. “Thankfully, the ferry didn’t capsize, and crews were able to reach the injured quickly.”
What Happens Next
Clearwater ferry accident Authorities have launched a full investigation into the crash and are actively searching for the boat and its operator.
The Clearwater Ferry Service is expected to remain suspended in the immediate aftermath as officials assess the ferry’s damage and ensure the safety of future operations.
Residents are urged to stay clear of the Memorial Clearwater ferry accident Causeway Bridge area while the investigation remains active.
Anyone with information about the crash or the fleeing boat is encouraged to contact the Clearwater Police Department immediately.
