NIAGARA RIVER – Erie County Sheriff John C. Garcia commends the quick action of a Good Samaritan who pulled two individuals aboard his boat after a Jet Ski overturned in the Niagara River near Tonawanda Island.
On Friday, May 24th at approximately 6:30 p.m., The U.S. Coast Guard, Erie County Sheriff’s Office Marine Unit and Air 1 responded to the aforementioned area after receiving a report that two people were in the water. Approximately four minutes after the 911 call was initiated, the Good Samaritan – a 53-year-old Grand Island man - was able to help the two individuals safely get onto his boat. They were turned over to the Coast Guard.
This incident highlights the importance of boaters being alert at all times and ensuring that everyone on a personal watercraft is wearing a flotation device.