Coast Guard search called off after capsized boat near Port Everglades confirmed empty

The Coast Guard has called off a search after no one was aboard a capsized boat found half a mile east of Port Everglades near Fort Lauderdale.

At about 7:45 a.m., a 24-foot white and blue boat was spotted overturned, according to Petty Officer 3rd Class Eric Rodriguez. Multiple search teams, including helicopter crews, were deployed to search for any potential individuals overboard.

However, during the investigation, the Coast Guard contacted the boat’s owner, who confirmed no one was on board. The owner explained the boat had somehow become untied from its dock and capsized.

Fort Lauderdale Fire Rescue also participated in the search but has since withdrawn its units after finding no sign of anyone near the capsized vessel.

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This is a breaking news story and may be updated as more information becomes available.

This story was originally published December 23, 2024 at 10:22 AM.