With rough waters and windy conditions, crews were able to rescue four people from a sinking sailboat engulfed in flames off Marco Island's coast.
According to the Collier County Sheriff's Office , the four people had to abandon the vessel before deputies arrived to help with the rescue.
CCSO's marine units found the sailboat west of Shell Island near Cape Romano, south of Marco Island, at approximately 9 a.m. Deputies said the sailboat was fully engulfed in flames surrounded by heavy black smoke.
According to CCSO, the passengers were safe in the dinghy away from the sailboat.
The Marco Island Fire Rescue Department said they were picked up by the Key West Express ferry. They were then taken to the Goodland Boat Ramp for treatment.
Collier County Emergency Medical Services paramedics and Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission officers also helped with the call.
FWC is investigating the incident, CCSO said.
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