Eight people, including an infant and a young child, were rescued Friday after their vessel capsized near the Sanibel Causeway in Lee County.
The U.S. Coast Guard Station Fort Myers Beach responded to the incident near the bridge connecting Sanibel Island to the mainland. Crews arrived to find the boat nearly fully submerged.
Responders executed a rapid extraction that removed all eight people from the water and brought them to safety. Photos shared by the Coast Guard showed the vessel nearly completely submerged.
"A successful mission is measured by the lives brought home safely," the Coast Guard station said in a statement posted to social media.
Station officials credited the successful outcome to the crew's preparation and emphasis on teamwork. "When seconds matter, preparation, communication, and teamwork make all the difference," the Coast Guard wrote in their official statement.
The incident occurred on a Fourth of July weekend, when beaches and waterways across the country draw crowds of visitors. The Sanibel Causeway sees heavy traffic, especially during summer weekends.
"We are grateful for the opportunity to serve our community and thankful that this incident ended with everyone returning home safely," the station wrote. "Our thoughts are with those involved, and we're proud of every responder who played a role in this successful rescue."
