BOSTON, MA – A tragic boating accident near Martha’s Vineyard has left a family devastated after their vessel caught fire, forcing them to swim to safety on a remote island. Authorities confirmed that 73-year-old Cynthia Sullivan died after succumbing to hypothermia and smoke inhalation. Her husband and son were stranded with her for over a day before being rescued.
The family’s ordeal began when their boat, the Third Wave, caught fire while they were anchored between Cape Cod and Martha’s Vineyard. A distress call for help was made by Sullivan’s son, who managed to find the boat’s marine radio washed ashore. The Coast Guard responded and located the family on Tarpaulin Cove, a secluded area where they had sought refuge.
Sullivan’s other son, who was not on board, shared that his father is recovering from burns in a Boston hospital. He is conscious and breathing, but the loss of his mother has left the family heartbroken. The son expressed admiration for his brother, who helped both parents swim to safety and ultimately made the life-saving distress call.
The family had set off from Eel Pond in Falmouth the previous Friday, planning to enjoy a few days at sea. However, when they did not return as expected, a concerned family member reported them missing. The Coast Guard’s search efforts led to the eventual rescue on Wednesday.
Friends and community members have expressed their sorrow and support for the family. Those who know the Sullivans describe them as kind and resilient, with the son who made the call being hailed as a hero for his quick thinking and bravery.
The incident highlights the dangers of boat fires and the rapidity with which they can escalate. Experts emphasize the importance of emergency preparedness and having safety equipment on board.
As the family navigates this difficult time, they are surrounded by love and support from their community. The tragic loss of Cynthia Sullivan serves as a somber reminder of the unpredictability of life at sea.