NARRAGANSETT, R.I. (AP) — Nine people including several children had to be rescued after their boat hit a wake and most of them were thrown overboard off the coast of Rhode Island.
Authorities say the Boston Whaler hit the wake of a passing Block Island Ferry at an excessive speed at about noon Wednesday.
Eight people were thrown into the water and the boat was swamped.
Narragansett Harbormaster Kevin Connors, who participated on the rescue, says no one was seriously hurt but the children were “petrified.” They were wearing life jackets.
The Coast Guard said the operator was cited for negligent operation for overloading the boat. The vessel is designed to hold just six people. The owner of the boat was also cited for having no registration on board, and no horn or whistle.
(Copyright (c) 2025 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.)