At least three people missing in ‘major maritime incident’ off Connecticut coast

At least three people were missing and several others injured in what authorities described as a “major maritime incident” that caused “mass casualties” in Connecticut, authorities said.

The North Madison Volunteer Fire Department said the three missing people were not wearing life jackets and that several personnel and ambulances from towns surrounding Old Saybrook, where the incident is currently underway, are assisting in the operation.

The boat, which was carrying eight to nine people, reportedly hit a pier, according to ABC News affiliate WTNH in New Haven. The Coast Guard and LifeStar deployed helicopters to the scene to assist in the search. The incident was reported as a mass casualty incident, WTNH reported.

“A mass casualty incident describes an incident in which emergency medical services resources, such as personnel and equipment, are overwhelmed by the number and severity of casualties,” the North Madison Volunteer Fire Department said in a follow-up online statement describing the operation.

No further details on the cause of the accident or the identities of the victims have been provided and the incident is ongoing.