Charles County, MD – On May 17, 2025, at approximately 2:42 PM, Charles County Emergency Communications received multiple 911 calls reporting a capsized boat with two individuals in the water approximately one mile off the Virginia shoreline in the Potomac River.

A “Boat in Distress” assignment was immediately dispatched, deploying 35 Fire/EMS personnel and numerous specialized water rescue units to the scene. Command was established by BC8B (Newman) and Maryland State Police Aviation Trooper 2 provided aerial support during the operation.

Using cell phone ping data provided by dispatch, Nanjemoy Volunteer Fire Department Boat #4, staffed by three crew members, located the overturned vessel. Upon arrival, they found an adult male and his 8-year-old son clinging to the capsized boat. Both individuals were safely brought aboard Boat #4 and transported to Mallows Bay, where they were turned over to Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Police.

Boat #8 reported significant debris scattered throughout the river, posing navigation hazards. The crew of Boat #8, along with Stafford County Boat 1500, assisted in ensuring a safe and coordinated rescue operation.

Thanks to the swift actions and teamwork of all responding units, the father and son were reunited safely with their family in Virginia. No injuries were reported.

The incident remains under investigation by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources Police.

Acknowledgments:
Nanjemoy Volunteer Boat #4

Tenth District Volunteer Boat #8

Stafford County Boat 1500

Maryland State Police Aviation Trooper #2

Charles County Emergency Services

For further information, please contact:

William Smith, PIO
smithb@ccvfireems.org