UPDATED: A mass of emergency services are in attendance in Cowes this morning (Sunday) following what is understood to be a boating incident.
Police, ambulance crews, HM Coastguard and the Coastguard Rescue Helicopter are all present in and around The Parade, where several casualties are being treated by the Isle of Wight Ambulance Service.
Cowes RNLI and Calshot RNLI lifeboats are understood to be searching for an unaccounted person after being tasked to launch by Solent Coastguard at around 03:00.
Island Echo is told that a collision has occurred which has resulted in front end damage to a small vessel.
UPDATE @ 04:56 – The search and rescue operation has now been stood down with the unaccounted male having been successfully located.
At least 2 casualties have been conveyed to St Mary’s Hospital by ambulance, where they are receiving treatment for currently unknown injuries.
Meanwhile Police have cordoned off Trinity Landing pontoon where the damaged fishing vessel ‘Loose Cannon’ is moored.
An investigation into the incident has been launched by Hampshire Constabulary and the Maritime & Coastguard Agency (MCA).
UPDATE @ 05:20 – Staff and members of the public at the Vectis Tavern pub have been praised for their role in this morning’s operation.
It is said that one of the less injured parties involved in the unexplained incident ran through the streets of Cowes in a confused state, seeking the assistance of those inside the High Street pub.
With the man unsure of where the vessel had been moored and where the casualties lay, a group of around 8 people set out to locate the vessel and inform emergency services.
Unfortunately, it is reported to Island Echo that Police officers patrolling the streets of Cowes informed the group they were ‘too busy’ to deal with the situation. The group went on to be the first to find the vessel and its injured crew before calling the Coastguard at 03:06.
UPDATE @ 07:05 – Daylight has revealed the damage sustained to ‘Loose Cannon’, which remains moored alongside Trinity Landing.
Significant damage can be seen to the bow of the vessel, as well as some damage to the outboard motor at the stern.
Police are maintaining a presence at The Parade and further updates are expected as the day progresses.
UPDATE @ 09:27 – It has been confirmed that 3 people have been taken to hospital, although the extent of their injuries is not yet known. 1 of the 3 was rescued from the water.
Although Police remain on scene Hampshire Constabulary say no action has been taken against any of those involved in the incident.
