CLEARWATER, Fla. — A quiet Sunday evening on the water turned into a nightmare when a boat slammed into the Clearwater Ferry near the Memorial Causeway, injuring several passengers and sparking a massive emergency response. The crash, which happened on April 27, 2025, sent shockwaves through this sunny coastal town, with helicopters buzzing overhead and ambulances racing to the scene.
The ferry, packed with more than 40 passengers, was cruising along its usual route when the collision occurred. Authorities say the other vessel, described as a recreational boat, hit the ferry hard and then sped off, leaving a trail of chaos. The impact was so severe that the Clearwater Fire Department declared it a “mass casualty incident,” a term reserved for disasters with overwhelming numbers of wounded. Two passengers, critically injured, were airlifted by helicopter to nearby hospitals, their conditions unknown as of Monday morning. Others, battered and shaken, were rushed to local medical centers by ambulance.
Police and fire crews swarmed the area, working frantically to account for everyone aboard the ferry. By late Sunday, officials believed all passengers had been rescued, though the exact number of injuries remains unclear. The Clearwater Police Department, leading the investigation, has partnered with the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office to piece together what happened. They suspect the fleeing boat may have been located, but details are scarce as the probe continues. The U.S. Coast Guard and Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission are also digging into the incident, combing through evidence to determine the cause.
The ferry operator confirmed the crash but stayed tight-lipped, citing the ongoing investigation. Meanwhile, the scene near the causeway was a tangle of flashing lights, radio chatter, and grim-faced first responders. For a town known for its laid-back beaches and tourist-friendly vibe, the collision was a jarring reminder of how quickly things can go wrong on the water.
As of April 28, 2025, authorities are still working to notify families and assess the full scope of the injuries. The investigation into the hit-and-run boat is ongoing, with law enforcement vowing to track down those responsible.