Stamford, CT – At approximately 9:59 p.m. on the evening of July 19, 2025, the Stamford Emergency Communications Center received an automated iPhone alert indicating a possible motor vehicle accident. Dispatchers quickly determined that the alert was triggered by a boating accident involving a vessel that had struck the Stamford Harbor break wall.

Stamford Fire Department Marine Unit personnel from Engine 4 responded to Fireboat 236, while additional land-based units—including Engine 1, Engine 2, Truck 1, Engine 5, Rescue 1 (Stamford Fire Dive Team), and Shift Commander Unit 4—responded to assist. Stamford Emergency Medical Services (EMS) and the Stamford Police Department were also dispatched to the scene.

Upon arrival, Fireboat 236 located a center-console boat that had collided with the break wall and was taking on water. Four individuals were on board and all sustained injuries. Two female passengers with the most significant injuries were immediately brought aboard Fireboat 236, where firefighters initiated medical care during transport to Czescik Marina. Stamford EMS met the boat at the marina and transported the patients to Stamford Hospital.

Stamford Police remained at the break wall with the two male occupants and attempted to stabilize the vessel to prevent it from sinking. Despite their efforts, the vessel could not be saved. The two men were subsequently transported to Czescik Marina and turned over to EMS personnel for further care.

Fireboat 236 later returned to the scene to secure and mark the vessel’s location for pending salvage operations.

The Noroton Fire Department and Darien Police Department Marine Units also provided assistance during the incident.

Deputy Fire Chief Philip Hayes emphasized the critical importance of boating safety:

“This incident is a sobering reminder of how quickly things can go wrong on the water—especially at night,” said Hayes. “Always have enough lifejackets for everyone on board, and follow key safety practices after dark: slow down because visibility is reduced, share lookout duties, preserve your night vision, watch carefully for red and green navigation aids, listen closely for other vessels, and use your navigation instruments—especially radar if your vessel is equipped. Preparedness and caution can save lives.”

The cause of the accident is under investigation.

Incident Details (if applicable):

Incident Number: 25-07730
Incident Location: Stamford Harbor Break Wall
Incident Date: 2025-07-19 10:08:00.0

CONTACT INFO:

Deputy Fire Chief Philip Hayes
(203) 977-5600

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