MIAMI-DADE COUNTY, Fla. – A 55-year-old man was airlifted to the hospital Tuesday evening after suffering a serious leg injury from a boat propeller near the popular sandbar off Elliott Key in Biscayne National Park, according to U.S. Coast Guard officials.
Recommended Videos
Coast Guard officials received an emergency call around 5 p.m. after learning that employees of the agency’s Miami sector said the man was struck by a boat propeller while he was in the water near the sandbar.
Crews from the Coast Guard’s Miami Beach station and the Maritime Safety and Security Team, who were already nearby for training, were diverted to the scene and arrived quickly to administer first aid, authorities said.
They said a tourniquet was applied to control the man’s bleeding.
The man was transported by a Coast Guard boat to the dock at Boca Chita Key, where Miami-Dade Fire Rescue crews were waiting.
From there, authorities said he was airlifted by helicopter to Jackson South Medical Center for further treatment.
“The crew executed a flawless response to a case where seconds make the difference between life and death,” said Lt. Matthew Ross, commanding officer of Station Miami Beach in a news release on Wednesday. “Their quick response, bias for action, and composure under pressure saved a man’s life.”
The Coast Guard described the rapid response as a testament to the service’s motto, Semper Paratus, meaning “Always Ready.”
Officials say the motto reflects the Coast Guard’s continued commitment to remaining well-trained, well-equipped, and prepared for anything.
No further details about the man’s condition or identity were immediately available.
