A Tuscaloosa Police Department Marine Unit boat sank Sunday morning after responding to a marina fire.

TPD Public Information Officer Stephanie Taylor says TPD, Tuscaloosa Fire and Rescue Service, and Tuscaloosa County EMA were called to Lake Tuscaloosa after the TPD boat sunk while attempting to tow a ski boat. The ski boat was one of several boats that caught fire at the Blue Heron Marina.

The TPD marine officer had responded to a call from a boater who noted an unoccupied ski boat on fire and drifting towards Binion Creek around 7 a.m. this (Sunday, July 12) morning. The TPD officer attempted to tow the smoldering boat; however, the ski boat began to sink and pulled the marine unit boat underwater with it.

A nearby boater was able to assist in getting the TPD officer out of the water. The officer was checked by medical personnel and is reported to be in good condition.

Crews are currently on the scene working to recover the submerged boats, and boaters are advised to avoid the area.

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