Town of Smithtown Bay Constables Perform Daring Rescue of Six Boaters off the Coast of Crane’s Neck, in Smithtown Bay
Smithtown Bay Constables performed a daring rescue late last night, rescuing six boaters in rough seas, after the vessel was pushed into rocks and began taking on water. On Tuesday night, April 20th, 2021 at approximately 9:24 PM, a distress call came into Smithtown Public Safety along with Suffolk County Police. An 18-foot vessel with six persons on board, (five men, one female) was taking on water off the coast of Crane's Neck in Smithtown Bay.
“This could have been a terrible tragedy. However, the fast action, bravery and the professional skill set of Sergeant Scott Roberts, Bay Constables Daniel Shannon, and David Rosenberg altered the evening's conclusion. I’d also like to formally extend our praises and gratitude to the Suffolk County Police Department's Marine Bureau and Aviation units, in addition to our neighboring first responders at Stony Brook and Setauket Fire Departments. The vital caliber of communication, expertise and partnership that goes into a water rescue, under rough weather conditions like last night, is a true testament to the exceptionalism of our first responders, protecting our community every day.” - Supervisor Ed Wehrheim
Smithtown Department of Public Safety Bay Constables Daniel Shannon, David Rosenberg and Sergeant Scott Roberts were first to respond to the location, in 30 knot winds and heavy sea conditions. Upon arrival with Suffolk County Marine Bureau and Aviation Units, the distressed vessel was found to have been pushed into the rocks by rough sea and wind conditions and was taking on water. The Bay Constables were able to navigate the rocky waters and extract the passengers from the disabled vessel, onto the Smithtown Patrol Boat.
“Last night's incident once again highlighted the level of professionalism of our Bay Constables, the Suffolk County Police and the Volunteer Fire Departments that responded in difficult and dangerous conditions to effect this rescue. This incident could have turned tragic for the victims had it not been for such an effective coordinated response by all agencies involved.” - Thomas J. Lohmann, Director of Public Safety
The six boaters (Ronnie Trejo, Omar Cruz, Jamie Agala, Carlos Alberto, Non Erasmo, and Josue Trejo) were wet and suffering from exposure to the elements. They were immediately returned to the Stony Brook Boat Ramp where EMS crews from Stony Brook and Setauket Fire Departments were standing by to evaluate and treat the victims.