Station 18 Deploys Three Rescue Boats for Waterfowlers Adrift near Mouth of Stow Creek

Hancock's Bridge, NJ - Marine units from Lower Alloways Creek Fire & Rescue (Station 18) safely retrieved three waterfowl hunters and their hunting dog Saturday morning after their vessel drifted into open water near the convergence of Stow Creek and the Delaware River.

Emergency responders were dispatched during the morning hours of Saturday, October 17, 2026, for a water rescue incident reported near the mouth of Stow Creek. Three individuals and one canine engaged in waterfowl hunting became stranded after their boat broke free and drifted offshore, eventually drifting approximately one mile into the open waters of the Delaware River in the vicinity of Oyster Cove.

Station 18 launched a multi-vessel water response, deploying Marine Units 18, 18-A, and 18-B to navigate the marshland channels and reach the open river expanse. Rescue personnel made contact with the hunting party, successfully taking the three individuals, the retriever, and their equipment aboard the departmental rescue crafts.

Crews also secured and towed the drifting vessel back to shore. No injuries were reported among the hunters or responding personnel, and emergency medical services were not required on scene. All units completed operations and returned to service after ensuring the party and craft were safely out of the waterway.