Two rescued after sailboat capsizes off Marquette
MARQUETTE — Two people had to be rescued Thursday evening after their sailboat capsized on Lake Superior.
The two brothers were sailing from Shot Point to Marquette’s Lower Harbor and back when on the return trip a gust of wind capsized the boat and damaged the hull about 6:30 p.m. Thursday, according to a news release from the Marquette County Sheriff’s Office.
Both were wearing life jackets and were able to get on top of the overturned vessel. They had stored a cell phone in a dry bag and were able to call 911 for assistance.
The Marquette Fire Department deployed a personal watercraft and located the brothers, with the U.S. Coast Guard-Marquette subsequently able to take them onboard. One brother was transported to shore while the boat owner remained with sheriff’s deputies to tow the boat back to shore.
The Chocolay Township and Marquette Township fire departments were also called to assist.
The Marquette County Sheriff’s Office reminds people to always wear a life jacket when recreating on the water.
The sheriff’s office tip line can be reached at 906-225-8441.
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Abby LaForest can be reached at 906-228-2500, ext. 548, or alaforest@miningjournal.net.