Rescue crews are searching for three men who fell off a boat in the Potomac River on Sunday evening, according to officials.
The men did not resurface after they fell into the river, DC Fire and Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Department reported.
Today’s tragedy of 3 people gone missing off a boat in the Potomac River is a grim reminder that you and your loved ones need to wear a personal flotation device if you want to safely enjoy the water. #DCsBravest. pic.twitter.com/QOpMUp1cAC
— DC Fire and EMS (@dcfireems) August 3, 2020
The DC Police Harbor Patrol also arrived at the location near Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling in Southwest DC, along with other agencies, at around 5: 40 pm.
Following an extensive water, land and air search for over two hours, DC Fire and EMS announced at 8 pm that they started treating the incident as a recovery operation.
On June 11, first responders recovered a man’s body from the Potomac River near the Chain Bridge and Fletcher’s Boathouse. DC Police launched an investigation into the death.
Two more drownings took place in the same area in May, while no recoveries happened until June 11.
On June 22, DC Fire and EMS rescued 12 individuals who became trapped by rapidly rising waters on the Potomac River while they were fishing and picnicking in the area.
Officials warn residents that it is illegal to swim in the Potomac River.