In Clearwater, Florida, a recreational boat collided with a ferry carrying over 40 passengers, resulting in multiple injuries, with six individuals designated as trauma alerts and two seriously injured individuals evacuated by helicopter. The incident occurred near the Clearwater Memorial Causeway Bridge, and the boat fled the scene after the collision, leaving the ferry to rest on a sandbar. Authorities confirmed that all injured persons were aboard the ferry and that no one is reported missing. Emergency services, including the United States Coast Guard and local agencies, responded promptly and evacuated the remaining passengers safely. Investigations by the Coast Guard and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission are underway to determine the cause of the collision as the situation develops.

A recreational boat collided with a ferry near the Clearwater Memorial Causeway Bridge, resulting in injuries to several passengers aboard the ferry.

Six people were declared trauma alerts, with two seriously injured individuals being airlifted to medical facilities by helicopter.

The ferry came to rest on a sandbar, and despite the collision, all passengers were safely evacuated with no reports of missing persons.

The boat responsible for the collision fled the scene, prompting authorities to initiate an investigation into the cause of the accident.

Emergency response included the United States Coast Guard and partner agencies, with local drivers advised to avoid the Memorial Causeway due to ongoing emergency operations.

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, along with the Coast Guard, is leading the investigation to ascertain the factors contributing to the collision.

The situation is being closely monitored and updated by authorities, with additional details sought from the Pinellas County Fire Department and mayor's office.