One dead, several injured after boat capsizes off Durban North
Several people, including a child, were hospitalised after the vessel capsized near Beachwood Golf Club in the sea off Durban North.
Several people, including a child, are recovering in hospital after a deadly boat accident at Beachwood off Durban North.
It is understood that a vessel capsized near the Beachwood Golf Club on Sunday afternoon.
ALS Paramedics spokesperson Garrith Jamieson says multiple authorities, including the SAPS and Metro Police Search and Rescue, were at the scene.
"The scene initially was scattered as some of the victims were assisted by bystanders and taken ashore to safety. It is believed the boat had six people on it with various ages ranging from approximately 8 years of age to around 45 years of age."
"One person, a male believed to be in his 40s, was missing and after a short while later the man was found having sustained fatal injuries. Unfortunately, there was nothing paramedics could do for him, and he was declared deceased on the scene."
He says emergency services transported the injured to nearby medical facilities.
"At this stage the events leading up to the incident is unknown, however SAPS were in attendance and will be investigating further."
NSRI rescue
The National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) said the boat had launched from the Durban Ski-Boat Club earlier in the day for a fishing trip with six local people on board. It is believed the vessel capsized while returning to shore through the surf off Beachwood.
According to the NSRI, the boat's skipper managed to help three teenagers and an eight-year-old child to safety. The group was later assisted by a passing motorist, who transported them to a nearby service station to raise the alarm. The Good Samaritan has been commended for his quick actions.
The NSRI said local fishermen who witnessed the boat capsize rushed to assist and attempted CPR on the deceased before emergency services arrived. However, he could not be revived.
Four survivors, including two brothers aged 19 and eight, their uncle, and a 17-year-old friend, were taken to hospital and are expected to make full recoveries. Another 17-year-old survivor was assessed by paramedics but did not require hospital treatment.
Police have opened an inquest docket while investigations into the cause of the accident continue. The NSRI has extended its condolences to the family and friends of the deceased.
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