Five Rescued After Boat Fire at Big Rock Fishing Tournament

The Big Rock Blue Marlin Fishing Tournament witnessed a dramatic rescue this morning when a participating boat, ‘Raptor,’ caught fire. According to tournament officials, the fire broke out approximately 50 miles offshore. The crew of ‘Raptor’ was safely evacuated and rescued by a Good Samaritan vessel named ‘Cost Plus,’ which was in the vicinity but not part of the tournament.

Paxton Peters, a crew member on ‘Cost Plus,’ recounted noticing gray smoke that quickly turned black, prompting them to respond to a distress signal. Upon arrival, they found all five individuals in the water and brought them aboard. The rescued fishermen were then transported to Morehead City and dropped off at their hotel dock.

The Coast Guard is currently investigating the cause of the fire. This incident highlights the inherent risks of offshore fishing and the importance of safety measures and quick responses in emergency situations. The quick-thinking and selfless actions of the ‘Cost Plus’ crew averted a potentially tragic outcome.

Approximately 50 miles off the coast of Morehead City, North Carolina.

A nearby boat named ‘Cost Plus’, which was not participating in the tournament.

No injuries were reported.

The Coast Guard is investigating the cause of the fire.

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