A tragic incident unfolded in New Jersey over the weekend, as a whale collided with a boat, resulting in a passenger being thrown overboard. The Marine Mammal Stranding Center confirmed the unfortunate event, stating that a 20-foot-long Minke whale was struck by a boat in Barnegat Bay on August 2. The impact of the collision was so severe that it caused the boat to nearly capsize, throwing a passenger into the waters.
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The distressing incident was captured on video, revealing the terrifying moment the boat made contact with the whale, causing a passenger in a blue shirt and sun hat to be thrown off the vessel. Witnesses on a nearby boat shouted warnings to the occupants of the stricken boat, urging them to turn off the motor. The chaotic scene prompted shouts of “Oh my God, they’re going over,” followed by cries of “Man overboard!” The whale, visibly agitated, swam away from the area, splashing its tail as onlookers watched in shock.
Kim Mancini, who witnessed the collision, described how the whale initially passed under her boat before the accident occurred. Additional footage shared on social media by TowBoatUS Barnegat Light provided further insight into the unfolding events. Emergency responders from the U.S. Coast Guard, State Marine Police, and Sea Tow swiftly coordinated a response to the scene. Tragically, the whale, identified as a Minke whale, did not survive the collision, as confirmed by the Marine Mammal Stranding Center.
Following the incident, the center announced plans to tow the deceased whale to a nearby state park for a post-mortem examination on the following day. Experts will conduct a necropsy to determine the cause of the whale’s death, as well as assess the extent of its injuries. Boaters in the vicinity have been advised to maintain a safe distance of approximately 150 feet from the whale carcass to facilitate the examination process and ensure safety.
Reflecting on the incident, Shelia Dean, director of the Marine Mammal Stranding Center, emphasised the importance of marine safety and responsible behaviour around marine wildlife. Dean cautioned against approaching whales in shallow waters and highlighted the need to switch off engines and avoid any sudden movements if a whale comes into close proximity to a boat. Respect for marine animals and adherence to safety protocols are crucial to prevent such tragic incidents in the future.
As the local community grapples with the aftermath of the collision, authorities and experts continue to investigate the circumstances leading to the collision. The focus remains on understanding what transpired and implementing measures to prevent similar incidents in the future. The welfare of marine animals and the safety of individuals navigating the waters are paramount concerns that underscore the importance of responsible boating practices and marine conservation efforts.