A group of friends (4 occupants) went fishing off of key largo in an area called mosquito banks.  Before the group left the dock, they checked all the necessary safety equipment onboard and had noticed the bilge pump active when they were in transit to mosquito banks.  

The vessel in this accident is a 17' skiff; the wind and sea state at the time of the accident was strong winds from the east and rough waters.

The entire group was fishing when they noticed that the stern of the vessel was sitting low in the water and appeared to be sinking.  The owner/occupant tried to start the motor to get some forward momentum but it was too late.  The vessel's stern sank further into the water and the vessel capsized; all four occupants went overboard.  

Mosquito banks has a "tower" like channel marker and was in swimming distance for all four swimmers, they climbed onto the tower and were able to call 911 for rescue.

None of the occupants remember the bilge pump working while they were at anchor but did notice waves coming over the side from time to time.
KEY LARGO