WASHINGTON — A rowing scull and a skiff overturned in the chilly Potomac waters Wednesday. It happened just after 5 p.m. on Wednesday when D.C. Fire and EMS were called for a report of two boats that capsized near Thompson Boat Center by the Watergate complex. A passing taxi boat rescued four people and brought them to the Georgetown Waterfront. Fire crews fished out the other 10 that were in the water and brought them to Thompson Boat Center.
Update overturned rowing skiff Potomac River. Several occupants were recovered by Potomac Water Taxi and brought to Georgetown Harbor dock. #DCsBravest working to confirm that all occupants were removed from water. pic.twitter.com/VrHYmw45tj
— DC Fire and EMS (@dcfireems) March 14, 2018
D.C. Fire and EMS spokesman Vito Maggiolo said nine people were in the racing shell and five were in the skiff. Four people were evaluated for hypothermia. The boats were recovered and towed back to the boat center.
Update Potomac River water rescue. All 14 occupants of rowing skiff accounted for and on shore being evaluated by EMS. 4 transported so far for evaluation. #DCsBravest Fireboat 4 has recovered the boat. pic.twitter.com/QeKEmKTvZI
— DC Fire and EMS (@dcfireems) March 14, 2018
Wednesday’s forecast was windy and cold, with winds between 15 to 30 mph. While it is not yet clear what caused the boats to capsize, Maggiolo said winds could be a factor. D.C. Fire and EMS did not identify the rowing team involved.
