USCG Rescues 4 after Vessel Hits Breakwall

The U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) rescued four men after the 30-foot vessel they were aboard struck the breakwall on the north side of the Milwaukee Harbor entrance late Thursday evening.

Just after 9:30 p.m., local time, watchstanders at Coast Guard Sector Lake Michigan in Milwaukee received notification from the Milwaukee Police Dispatch of a 30-foot vessel that had hit the Milwaukee Harbor outer breakwall with three possible injuries reported.

Sector Lake Michigan directed the launch of a crew from Coast Guard Station Milwaukee, aboard a 45-foot response boat. The crew arrived on scene less than 15 minutes later and transported all four men to McKinley Marina, where they were met by waiting emergency medical services.

The operator had hit his head resulting in a possible concussion, one passenger had broken ribs and another passenger showed signs of whiplash. The fourth person aboard did not require any medical attention.

All three injured men were taken by EMS to Froedtert Hospital in Milwaukee. Their current conditions are unknown.

A Milwaukee Police Marine unit moved the vessel away from the breakwall and towed it to McKinley Marina. There was no pollution reported.

The cause of the collision is unknown and Aids-to-Navigation Team Kenosha, Wisconsin, will conduct ATON verification.

The Coast Guard reminds mariners to exercise caution when entering and exiting areas where breakwalls are present. Ensure you are familiar with the area, have up-to-date nautical charts and always post a lookout.