This afternoon, Rescue Boat 6 from Cobb Island VFD responded to an aircraft emergency in the Potomac River near Green Buoy #29, just off Dahlgren Naval Base in Virginia. Initial reports indicated a large aircraft down in the water, but upon arrival, first-in units determined it to be a small seaplane with a single occupant.

Rescue Boat 6 remained on scene for several hours, providing support and standby assistance alongside numerous partner agencies. All land-based units from Maryland were placed in service shortly after dispatch.

Due to the plane’s location and the time of day, recovery operations have been postponed. The aircraft is scheduled to be removed from the water tomorrow morning to allow for further investigation into the cause of the incident.

This marked the second marine-related call of the day for Cobb Island VFD. Earlier in the afternoon, Rescue Boat 6 also responded to a separate incident involving a boat in distress near Coltons Point in St. Mary’s County, MD. That vessel was not taking on water and was assisted without injury or further hazard.

We’d like to thank our response partners for today’s coordinated efforts:

Colonial Beach Volunteer Fire Department

King George Fire & Rescue
King George Sheriff's Department

Naval District Washington

Maryland Natural Resources Police

Towboat US Cobb Island

U.S. Navy Police

Maryland State Police Aviation Command – Trooper 7

Maryland State Police – La Plata Barrack

The investigation into the aircraft incident is being led by the Maryland State Police La Plata Barrack.

Our thoughts are with the pilot, who was medevaced by Trooper 7 for further evaluation.

Special thanks to Chief 6 and his department for sharing this news story. All photos courtesy Company #6