EAST PENN TOWNSHIP, Pa. — Eight people were rescued from the Lehigh River early Tuesday morning after their craft began taking on water, according to the East Penn Township Fire Chief.
The water rescue occurred near the Bowmanstown boat ramp, close to the sewage plant, after emergency crews received a call at 12:49 a.m. Tuesday, May 27.
Rescue officials said the group’s vessel began to take on water, forcing all eight people into the river.
Based on the rescue details, a boat may have been pulling an inflatable raft or tube when the incident occurred.
Four people swam to shore independently, while four others remained in the water when rescue crews arrived.
All eight people were wearing life jackets at the time of the incident. Everyone returned to shore, though no information about their conditions or injuries was immediately available.
The rescue comes as USGS data shows the Lehigh River has recently experienced unusually high water levels. Experts had warned the public about increased water levels before the Memorial Day holiday weekend.
It was unclear what time the group entered the water or why they were on the river so late. Officials have not released information about whether alcohol was involved in the incident.
The group could face charges due to the danger they created. In Pennsylvania, boating under the influence is illegal, even with unpowered watercraft.
If alcohol was not involved, charges could still be filed for launching without a permit from the state to use unpowered watercraft on state property or areas with a Fish and Boat Commission launch.
