Four boaters rescued after vessel capsizes near chesapeake bay bridge-tunnel

Four Boaters Rescued After Vessel Capsizes Near Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel

July 3, 2026

Emergency crews safely rescued four boaters after their vessel capsized near the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel, with authorities warning mariners the disabled boat remains in the water.

Virginia Beach, VA – Four boaters were rescued Friday morning after their vessel capsized near the east side of the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel’s second island, prompting a multi-agency emergency response.

Four boaters rescued after vessel capsizes near chesapeake bay bridge-tunnel
Photo: four boaters rescued after vessel capsizes near chesapeake bay bridge-tunnel

According to the Virginia Beach Police Department, an emergency call was received at approximately 10:17 a.m. reporting the capsized vessel.

The Virginia Beach EMS Marine Rescue Team responded alongside Virginia Beach EMS, the Virginia Beach Fire Department, the Virginia Beach Police Department, and the U.S. Coast Guard.

Four boaters reached nearby rocks

Rescue crews arrived on scene and quickly assessed the incident, confirming no additional people were injured or in distress.

Authorities said the four displaced boaters were able to make it to nearby rocks, where responders safely assisted them back to shore.

“This incident helps highlight the importance of our partnership with Federal and Local agencies to help provide rapid responses and safe outcomes for all those involved,” the Virginia Beach Police Department said.

Vessel remains in the water

Officials advised boaters that the capsized vessel remains at the scene and is marked with an orange buoy to improve visibility for passing mariners.

With heavy boating traffic expected over the Fourth of July weekend, authorities encouraged those heading onto the water to practice safe boating and remain aware of changing conditions.

Key Points

  • Four boaters were rescued after a vessel capsized near the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel Friday morning.
  • Multiple local, state, and federal agencies responded, including the U.S. Coast Guard.
  • The capsized vessel remains in the water and is marked with an orange buoy to alert other boaters.

Related: Virginia Beach Police Department, Virginia Beach, Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel, U.S. Coast Guard, Marine Rescue

Shore News Network

Shore News Network

Phil Stilton is the Editor and Publisher of Shore News Network, an independent digital news organization covering New Jersey, national politics, public policy, public safety, and community affairs. With years of experience reporting on local government, elections, law enforcement, and issues impacting residents throughout New Jersey, Stilton has built a reputation for delivering timely news, in-depth reporting, and accountability journalism.

As the founder of Shore News Network, Stilton oversees editorial operations, investigative reporting, and breaking news coverage while working closely with journalists, public officials, and community leaders. His reporting has covered municipal government, state politics, federal policy, public records investigations, emergency management, and major news events affecting local communities.

Stilton is committed to factual reporting, source verification, transparency, and providing readers with accessible, accurate information that helps them better understand the issues shaping their communities. Through Shore News Network, he continues to focus on delivering trusted news coverage and original reporting to audiences across New Jersey and beyond.

For story tips, corrections, or media inquiries, readers can contact Shore News Network through its official website and social media channels.