The caller stated that the two occupants onboard had been assisted by a nearby vessel and were being brought to the Smiling Cove Marina. The DPS jet-boat and the Zodiac 1 rescue boat were then launched to respond to the overturned vessel.
At about 6:55 p.m., an attempt to turn the vessel upright was made but it did not succeed. By 7:20 p.m., the jetboat and the Zodiac 1 began towing the vessel to Smiling Cove. At about 7:50 p.m., both rescue boats arrived with the overturned vessel.
Police learned that the two occupants on board were leaving Managaha with friends on three separate boats. As they were leaving the island, the vessel caught a wake and before the operator was able to shift the boat into neutral, the boat’s bow already went underwater before the boat overturned. They were picked up by a nearby boat and were brought to the Smiling Cove as they called for police assistance.
DPS encourages boaters to call Channel 16 on your VHF radio when you need help, or if you would like to report a distressed vessel.
If you would like to report a crime or an emergency call 911 anytime. Your CNMI law enforcement officers care for your safe return home.
