In a tragic incident near Clearwater Memorial Causeway, a recreational boat collided with a ferry carrying over 40 passengers, resulting in one death and multiple injuries, prompting a mass casualty response.

The collision, which occurred at approximately 8:40 p.m., has been classified as a mass casualty event due to the seriousness of the injuries sustained by passengers on the ferry, including two who were airlifted to local hospitals. The recreational boat, which fled the scene, raises concerns as authorities, including the U.S. Coast Guard and Clearwater Police, launch investigations to determine the circumstances surrounding the crash.

The Clearwater Ferry was transporting more than 40 passengers at the time of the incident. Reports indicate that individuals on board suffered various injuries, prompting emergency responders to classify the situation as a mass casualty event, which commonly occurs when multiple individuals require immediate medical attention.

Following the collision, first responders swiftly arrived at the scene. Videos circulating on social media depicted urgent scenes as emergency personnel worked to assist those injured. Despite the chaos, all passengers from both the ferry and the recreational boat were accounted for, allowing emergency teams to focus on the medical needs of the injured.

Among the injured, six individuals were declared trauma alerts, indicating they suffered critical injuries requiring advanced medical care. Two of these passengers were subsequently transported to local hospitals via helicopter, suggesting the severity of their conditions. The full extent of injuries among the other passengers is still being assessed, as many received treatment at the scene before being transported for further medical evaluation.

As the investigation unfolds, authorities are particularly interested in the recreational boat that fled the scene post-collision. The U.S. Coast Guard, alongside the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, is actively working to gather information related to the crash. Clearwater Police, with assistance from the Pinellas County Sheriff's Office, is leading the investigation to identify the operator of the boat and to piece together the events leading up to the collision.

Following the impact, the ferry came to a stop on a sandbar, preventing further complications in navigating the waterway. Initial reports suggest that the ferry was operating within established safety protocols at the time of the crash, yet the dynamics leading to the collision between the vessels remain unclear.

Authorities are urging anyone with information regarding the incident or who may have witnessed the collision to come forward. Witness statements could prove invaluable as investigators work to establish a timeline and uncover the circumstances that led to this tragic accident.

As the investigation continues, local officials have expressed their condolences to the victims and their families. This incident serves as a grim reminder of the potential dangers associated with boating activities, particularly in busy waterways. As more details emerge, the focus is now on providing support to those affected and ensuring accountability.