2 People Jump From Burning Boat In Sayreville Canal

Two people escaped from a burning boat by jumping into the Washington Canal after they were unable to reach their life jackets, according to Sayreville police.

Want more Sayreville news delivered directly to your inbox? Subscribe to The Sayreville Insider for free.

Police received a 911 call from the boat’s occupants at approximately 11:01 a.m. Thursday, Aug. 6.

The occupants reported that the boat’s engine had caught fire while they were on the canal. They attempted to put out the flames but were unsuccessful, police said.

Unable to reach their life jackets, both people jumped into the water.

Police later found them along the canal’s shoreline behind Weber Avenue.

Emergency medical personnel evaluated both occupants at the scene. One person sustained a minor burn, according to police.

Both were taken to Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital for additional evaluation as a precaution.

Sayreville police and firefighters responded alongside marine crews from Sayreville, Perth Amboy and the New Jersey State Police. Hackensack Meridian Health emergency medical personnel also assisted.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

Stay informed about news, development, schools and local government in Sayreville. Subscribe to The Sayreville Insider for free.