Port Alfred: One survivor after boat capsizes in Kowie River Mouth

At 08h23 on Sunday, 26 July, NSRI Port Alfred duty crew were activated after a boat capsized in the Kowie River Mouth, Port Alfred, with two people in the water. One man tragically lost his life, while his grandson was safely brought ashore.

NSRI Port Alfred duty crew were activated following eyewitness reports of a rigid hull inflatable boat (RHIB) capsized in the Kowie River Mouth, Port Alfred, with two people reported to be in the water.

Duty crew responded to the NSRI Port Alfred Station 11 rescue base, where the rescue craft Rescue 11 Alpha was launched and the NSRI rescue vehicle was dispatched. NSRI rescue swimmers, the SA Police Service, Multi-Security, EC Government Health EMS, Gardmed ambulance services and Life First paramedics responded directly to the scene at East Beach.

On arrival, a boat was located capsized in the surf zone at East Beach. A local adult man was recovered from the water, and CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) efforts were commenced. Despite extensive efforts, once all attempts to resuscitate him had been exhausted, he was sadly declared deceased.

The survivor, the deceased man's adult grandson from Gauteng, was located on the shoreline and transported to a local doctor, where he is recovering in the care of the doctor and his family.

The body of the deceased man has been taken into the care of Police and Government Health Forensic Pathology Services. Police have opened an inquest docket.

It appears that the boat may have capsized in the waves while exiting the Kowie River Mouth to go to sea. The vessel has been recovered and is in the care of Police.

Condolences are conveyed to the family and friends of the deceased man. All care and compassion are with the family during this difficult time.