Fall River personnel rescue two people after boat submerges in Taunton River, one dies from injuries

Two people were rescued Wednesday morning after an incident on the water, with one later dying.

According to Det. Sergeant Moses Pereira at approximately 6:40 a.m., the Department received a report of two individuals in distress in the Taunton River.  The Harbormaster’s Assistant responded along with several Police, Fire and EMS units and the Massachusetts Environmental Police.

It would later be discovered that two brothers had gone fishing in the Taunton River, when their propeller got caught in a rope. While attempting to free the propeller, the vessel began taking on water. At some point, both men ended up in the water. One of the men was able to take hold of a flotation device, while the other was unable to stay afloat. First responders were able to remove him from the water and he was subsequently transported to Saint Anne’s Hospital where he would unfortunately succumb to his injuries. 

The matter remains under investigation by the Major Crimes Division and the Massachusetts State Police Detective Unit.

After the rescue, Marine 1 was collecting debris and attempting to locate the boat.