Five Injured in Late-Night Westport Boat Crash

Eight people were rescued and five were hospitalized following a late-night boat crash on the banks of the Westport River off Cadmans Neck Road.

The Westport Fire Department responded Wednesday just before 11 p.m. to reports of a marine vessel with eight people on board that had run aground with reported injuries.

Workers made their way through heavy brush to reach the vessel on the riverbank 20 feet below the yard of the nearest residence. First responders found eight people ranging in age from 14 to 24. One person had injuries severe enough to require Med-Flight, and a woman was transported to Rhode Island Trauma Center via helicopter.

Another person was transported to Rhode Island Trauma Center via ambulance. Three were transported via ambulance to other hospitals. Three declined treatment and transport, according to Captain Brian Bealieu, public information officer for the fire department.

Westport Fire was assisted by Dartmouth, Tiverton, Little Compton, and Fall River fire departments at the scene. The Fall River Fire Department also assisted with an engine to the landing zone for Med-Flight at Westport High School. The incident is under investigation by the Westport Police Department and the Massachusetts Environmental Police.

Although it's not clear, one Boston media outlet is reporting that the boat hit a tree. More details will be posted as they become available.