A devastating crash near the Memorial Causeway Bridge in Clearwater, Florida, turned a night of celebration into tragedy on Sunday, April 27, 2025. A ferry carrying 42 people was struck by a private recreational boat, resulting in one fatality and multiple injuries, according to officials. The collision occurred around 8:45 p.m. during the closing evening of the Sugar Sand Festival, a popular 17-day event that draws thousands to Clearwater Beach.
Mass Casualty Incident Declared
Clearwater Fire and Rescue declared the situation a mass casualty incident due to the number and severity of injuries. Six passengers were classified as “trauma alerts,” with two victims airlifted to local hospitals for urgent care. Emergency crews worked for several hours to rescue survivors, and all passengers were successfully accounted for. Authorities confirmed there are no reports of anyone missing.
Details of the Crash
Following the collision, the ferry came to rest on a sandbar south of the bridge. Witnesses described a chaotic scene, saying the ferry appeared to have been struck from behind, pinning the ferry captain and causing multiple injuries throughout the vessel. The recreational boat involved in the crash immediately fled the scene after impact.
Search and Investigation Underway
Clearwater officials confirmed that the second boat has been located at a nearby boat ramp. Members of the U.S. Coast Guard and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) are leading the ongoing investigation to determine exactly how the crash occurred and whether charges will be filed. Officials are urging anyone with information, photos, or videos related to the crash to contact local authorities to assist with the investigation.
Community Response
Clearwater Mayor Bruce Rector released a statement expressing condolences to the victims and their families and praised first responders for their quick and heroic actions that likely prevented further loss of life. “This was a heartbreaking event for our community,” Rector said. “We are grateful to our emergency personnel for their swift response under difficult circumstances.”
Final Thoughts
This remains a developing story. Updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
Our thoughts are with the victims, their families, and everyone impacted by this tragedy.
Damage (on the vessels) makes this an open and shut case for determining who was at fault. The only thing to determine is why.