CHICOPEE — A boating incident on the Connecticut River just south of the Holyoke Dam left passengers with minor injuries on July 3.
At approximately 8:45 p.m., a vessel struck an unidentified object in the water, causing it to become disabled.
The operator managed to navigate to the shore and seek help for the passengers who had sustained minor injuries during the incident.
The Chicopee Police Underwater Response Team was dispatched to the scene in an attempt to recover the damaged boat.
However, due to the condition of the vessel, officers were unable to remove it from the water.
They did, however, secure it to the shore to ensure it posed no further danger.
In light of the upcoming 4th of July celebrations, the Chicopee Police Department is reminding those planning to spend time on the Connecticut River to prioritize safety.
Authorities are advising boaters to wear life vests and to operate their vessels responsibly during the holiday festivities.