On May 6, 2023, at approximately 1900 hrs. reports of a vessel fire was relayed through channel 16 marine VHF, near the Mid Bay Bridge.  The vessel, a 1997 47’ Bayliner cabin cruiser was traveling east towards the ICW when the operator observed the temperature gauge reading high.  The operator opened the engine compartment observed smoke and flames coming out.  The operator hailed coast guard over channel 16 and along with the passengers, jumped into the water.  The swimmers were picked up by a nearby vessel and taken land.  The Niceville Fire and rescue arrived and extinguished the fire and towed the vessel to the north side of the bridge to shallower water.
choctawhatchee bay
DESTIN                        