SOMERSET COUNTY, Md. — A 72-year-old boater was airlifted to a hospital after running aground and exhausting his oxygen supply in a remote wildlife area near Fishing Creek, authorities said.
Maryland Natural Resources Police responded around 12:08 p.m. April 17 to the Deal Island Wildlife Management Area, where the stranded man reported his jon boat was stuck and he could not free it.
Oxygen Emergency Prompts Air Rescue
Officers, joined by Somerset County Emergency Medical Services, launched a patrol vessel and located the boater within about 45 minutes.
Once they reached him, responders determined the situation had escalated into a medical emergency: the man, who relied on supplemental oxygen, had run out of supply while stranded on the water.
Given the urgency, the Maryland State Police Aviation Command was called in to assist with a medical evacuation.
Multi-Agency Response Leads to Safe Outcome
Aviation crews transported the man by helicopter to TidalHealth Peninsula Regional in Salisbury for precautionary evaluation.
Authorities credited coordination between multiple agencies for the successful rescue in a difficult-to-access area.
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Key Points
• 72-year-old boater stranded after running aground in Somerset County
• Medical emergency triggered when man exhausted oxygen supply
• Victim airlifted to Salisbury hospital after multi-agency rescue
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Safety Reminder for Boaters
Officials emphasized that boaters in distress should use VHF radio channel 16 or call 911 if within cell service range to request emergency assistance.
The incident highlights the added risks for individuals with medical needs when traveling in remote waterways, where response times can be longer.
What Comes Next
The boater was transported for evaluation, and no further updates on his condition have been released as of now.
Authorities say the incident ended safely, with no additional injuries reported.