07/05/2026
🚨 Important Update - 🚨
Yesterday, July 4, at approximately 4:30 PM, while conducting a regional special operations marine security detail for the NY/NJ Port area, Carteret Fire Department Marine Unit 2 was involved in a serious marine incident while returning to Carteret waters.
CFD Marine 2 was violently struck beneath the stern by a surfacing whale that breached the water south of the Arthur Kill at the mouth of Raritan Bay, causing catastrophic damage to the vessel. The boat immediately began taking on water, leaving the firefighters aboard only seconds to abandon the vessel.
We are grateful to report that all Carteret Fire Department personnel are safe, and no injuries were sustained. A nearby recreational vessel reported observing a pod of whales breaching the water both before and after the incident. The circumstances surrounding the incident remain under review, and additional information will be shared as it becomes available.
We extend our sincere appreciation to the recreational jet ski operator and additional boater who immediately came to the aid of our members, as well as the members of the Perth Amboy Fire Department Marine Unit and FMBA Local 58/258 for assisting in safely rescuing our firefighters from the channel.
While the Carteret Fire Department Marine Unit regularly trains to rescue civilians from the water and respond to marine emergencies, fires, and vehicle incidents, an event of this nature is something no one anticipates. Understandably, it has left those involved shaken, but we are incredibly thankful that everyone returned home safely to their families.
This incident also serves as an important reminder of the value of wearing a properly fitted life jacket. Every member aboard was wearing the required personal flotation device, which played a critical role in keeping them safe until rescuers arrived. We encourage all boaters, jet ski operators, kayakers, and anyone enjoying the water to always wear a life jacket.
The Carteret Fire Department & EMS Division extend their heartfelt gratitude to all who offered assistance, support, and prayers following this incident. We thank Mayor Dan Reiman, the Borough Council, Chief of Staff Bellino, the New Jersey FMBA Executive Board, the Jersey City Fire Department, the NJ Fire Boat Regional Task Force, and the many FMBA locals from across the state who reached out to check on our members.
Finally, we thank the members of the Carteret Fire Department for their professionalism, courage, and dedication to protecting our residents and neighboring communities. Yesterday's events serve as a powerful reminder that no matter how routine a mission may seem, every emergency response carries risks—and we are incredibly grateful that every member made it home safely.
