08/31/2026
Calloway County E-911 Communications Center Assists in Rescue of Injured Boaters on Kentucky Lake
On Sunday August 30th at approximately 8:40pm, the Calloway County E-911 Communications Center received a 911 call from an individual reporting that their boat had struck a barge on Kentucky Lake and that they were in need of immediate medical assistance.
The Communications Center immediately dispatched emergency services to the area of the lake where responders could assist the occupants.
While remaining on the phone with the caller, telecommunicators determined that the caller and a passenger had both sustained severe injuries. The caller's injuries significantly impaired his vision and prevented him from determining which direction to operate the boat toward rescuers. Due to the nature and severity of the injuries, waiting for first responders to locate the vessel was not a viable option.
Using RapidSOS location technology and Axon body worn camera responder location information, Calloway County E-911 telecommunicators were able to determine the location of both the caller and responding deputies. Although the caller was unable to see, he was still able to operate the boat. Telecommunicators used the available location information to guide the caller toward responders who were positioned at a nearby dock.
While remaining on the 911 call, telecommunicators continuously provided the caller with directions and made necessary corrections to help guide the boat safely toward the waiting responders. The operation was extremely time-sensitive, and the ability of the Communications Center to utilize these technologies, combined with the telecommunicators' ability to maintain communication with and guide the injured caller, allowed the occupants to reach responders safely.
Once the occupants reached the dock, telecommunicators were advised that their injuries required air medical transportation. The Communications Center immediately notified Air Evac, and two helicopters were dispatched to a landing zone established by Calloway County Fire-Rescue and CCSO deputies.
The Communications Center also notified the United States Coast Guard and requested assistance in temporarily stopping commercial marine traffic on Kentucky Lake between Paris Landing and the Eggner's Ferry bridge. At the request of the Communications Center, the Coast Guard also assisted in notifying the tow/barge that had been struck by the recreational vessel and instructed its crew to stop and coordinate with the Calloway County Fire-Rescue boat operating alongside it.
This incident demonstrates the critical role of E-911 telecommunicators and the importance of technology in emergency response. The ability to obtain accurate location information, track responding personnel, maintain continuous communication with an injured caller, and coordinate multiple emergency resources allowed Calloway County E-911 telecommunicators to provide lifesaving assistance during an extremely time-sensitive emergency.
The Calloway County E-911 Communications Center commends the Telecommunicators, Calloway County Sheriff’s Office, Calloway County Fire-Rescue personnel, Murray Calloway County EMS, Calloway County Emergency Management, Air Evac crews, United States Coast Guard, and all other responders involved for their coordinated efforts during this incident.
