Five hurt when boat runs aground in Westport; one transported by Med-Flight

WESTPORT - Eight people were rescued Wednesday night after their boat ran aground off Cadmans Neck Road in Westport, according to a press release.

Westport Fire Department received the call at 10:48 p.m. Wednesday that a boat had run aground with injuries. Westport Fire responded with two ambulances, the Westport Police Department assisted with the request for mutual aid ambulances.

Rescuers had to get through the heavy brush to reach the vessel on the riverbank, approximately 20 feet below the yard of nearest residence. They found one individual with injuries severe enough to request Med-Flight.

Those on the boat ranged in age from 14 to 24 years old.

Two were transported to Rhode Island Hospital trauma center (one by by Med-Flight), three were transported to local hospitals, and three were released at the scene (refused transport).

Westport Fire was assisted by Stat Dartmouth, Tiverton, Little Compton, and Fall River Fire Departments at the scene. Another ambulance responding from Swansea and was canceled prior to arriving.

Fall River Fire Department also assisted with an engine to the landing zone for Med-Flight at Westport High School.

The incident is under investigation by the Westport Police Department and the Massachusetts Environmental Police.