3 Killed and 1 in Critical Condition Following Catamaran Capsizing on Florida River

Three individuals have lost their lives, and another is in critical condition, following a catamaran accident on the Caloosahatchee River in Florida, according to the Lee County Marine Emergency Response Team (MERT).

The incident occurred on Saturday, November 29, around 4:00 p.m. local time, between Cape Coral and Fort Myers. MERT shared photos of the search and rescue efforts on Facebook, confirming the fatalities.

"A tragic event took place on the Caloosahatchee River. Yesterday evening, a catamaran overturned, throwing its four passengers into the water," officials stated. "Three were recovered deceased, while one survived in critical condition."

The statement continued: "After a comprehensive search involving federal, state, and local agencies, the fourth individual was recovered today. Remember to keep boating enjoyable but safe."

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), the U.S. Coast Guard, and Lee County MERT were contacted for further comment. Two victims were declared dead immediately after being rescued, while the third remained hospitalized as of Sunday.

A 60-year-old, initially reported missing, was found and recovered from the river on Sunday, the FWC confirmed. The Coast Guard actively participated in the search operation.

"The Lee County Sheriffs Office is collaborating with FWC and the U.S. Coast Guard in locating the missing boater. Our Marine Units and Aviation Division are supporting the ongoing search," the sheriff's office reported previously.

Photos from the sheriffs office showed rescue boats patrolling the area near the overturned catamaran. Authorities continue to investigate the cause of the accident, according to the Coast Guard.

Author’s Analysis

I confirm that the incident involved a catamaran overturning on the Caloosahatchee River between Cape Coral and Fort Myers on November 29 at approximately 4:00 p.m. local time. Four individuals were on board at the time of the accident.

Based on official statements, three individuals were pronounced dead, while one survivor remains in critical condition. Two victims were declared deceased shortly after rescue, and a 60-year-old individual initially reported missing was recovered from the river the following day.

I note that the response included coordinated efforts by the Lee County Marine Emergency Response Team, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, the U.S. Coast Guard, and the Lee County Sheriff’s Office. Marine and aviation units were deployed during the search operation.

At this stage, authorities have not released information on the cause of the accident. The U.S. Coast Guard has confirmed that the investigation remains ongoing.

Sources:

• 3 Dead and 1 in Critical Condition After Catamaran Flips Over and 'Ejects' Passengers on Florida River