Breaking News: Four Prominent OBX Residents Involved in Tragic Boat Crash; Two Still Missing
Outer Banks, NC (April 30, 2025) – Tragedy struck the Outer Banks early this morning as a private ship carrying four prominent OBX residents crashed and sank in a local river near Manteo. Authorities have confirmed that two of the passengers have been rescued, while two others remain missing, prompting an ongoing large-scale search and rescue operation.
According to the Dare County Sheriff’s Office, the crash occurred around 6:30 a.m. when the vessel, a 40-foot sportfishing yacht, collided with a submerged object in the Roanoke River. Witnesses reported hearing a loud bang followed by frantic calls for help before the ship began taking on water rapidly.
Coast Guard and local emergency crews responded within minutes after receiving a distress signal. Two of the passengers, identified as longtime residents and local business owners, were pulled from the water and taken to The Outer Banks Hospital. They are currently in stable condition and receiving treatment for minor injuries and exposure.
However, the identities of the two missing individuals have not yet been released as rescue teams continue to search the area. Officials stated that the current conditions on the water — including swift currents and limited visibility — have complicated the recovery efforts.
Captain Sarah Hines of the U.S. Coast Guard gave a brief press statement around 10 a.m.:
“We are deploying sonar equipment and dive teams as we work tirelessly to locate the missing persons. Our hearts go out to the families, and we are doing everything in our power to bring them home.”
The cause of the crash remains under investigation. Preliminary reports suggest that poor early morning visibility and a potential navigational error may have contributed to the accident. The Coast Guard is also examining the ship’s black box and maintenance logs to determine whether mechanical failure played a role.
The incident has sent shockwaves through the close-knit Outer Banks community, especially as all four passengers were reportedly well-known in the area. Many residents gathered along the shoreline in Manteo throughout the morning, anxiously watching the search operations unfold.
Mayor Karen Mitchell addressed the town just before noon.
“This is a heartbreaking moment for our community. We ask everyone to keep the families affected in their thoughts and prayers. Our emergency responders are working tirelessly, and we are offering full support to those involved.”
As the investigation and search efforts continue, officials urge boaters in the area to avoid the crash site to allow emergency teams full access. Updates will be provided as new information becomes available.
Anyone with information about the crash or sightings related to the missing individuals is encouraged to contact the Dare County Sheriff’s Office immediately.
The Outer Banks community remains hopeful as the search presses on into the evening.
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