Woman Dies After Family Rescue from Massachusetts Island
The tragic incident involving the Sullivan family highlights the dangers of boating safety. On a Monday night, the family was anchored off Cape Cod when their boat caught fire. Tyler Sullivan, along with his parents, Patrick and Cynthia “Cici” Sullivan, was awakened by their dogs barking and the sounds of fireworks in the vicinity.
Firebreaks and Family Rescue
In the chaos, the family bravely jumped into the water. They swam to a nearby uninhabited island owned by the Forbes family. Unfortunately, during the escape, Cici Sullivan sustained critical injuries and later died at a local hospital on Thursday. She was 73 years old.
Survivors and Medical Conditions
- Patrick Sullivan: Injured but stable and breathing without assistance.
- Tyler Sullivan: Played a crucial role in ensuring the safety of his family.
- Cynthia “Cici” Sullivan: Succumbed to her injuries after being hospitalized.
After reaching the island, the family took refuge in a barn and awaited rescue. They had set sail from Falmouth on Friday, intending to return on Tuesday after a weekend near Naushon Island. By Tuesday, when the family had not returned, relatives raised concerns, prompting the Coast Guard to join the search operations.
Coast Guard Search and Rescue
Coast Guard officials launched a search, alerting nearby boaters to stay vigilant and report any sightings. The pivotal moment came when Tyler discovered a marine radio washed ashore. He used it to call for help early Wednesday morning, informing the dispatcher, “Mayday, mayday, mayday! Our ship went down in Tarpaulin’s Cove!”
Emergency responders swiftly located the family. They were subsequently airlifted to a hospital for medical evaluation. Chris Sullivan, Tyler’s brother, initially reported their mother’s critical condition but later announced her passing on Facebook, sharing a heartfelt tribute and their mother’s favorite music as she departed this world.
Community Response and Investigation
Scott Backholm, a rescue coordinator from the Coast Guard, praised the family’s quick response. “Their quick thinking and effective use of equipment contributed significantly to their survival,” he stated. Meanwhile, Chris Sullivan commended Tyler’s actions during the crisis, referring to him as a hero.
As investigations continue, this incident serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of boating and the importance of preparedness on the water. The community mourns the loss of Cynthia Sullivan while recognizing the bravery of her family.
