US Coast Guard rescues Jamaican nationals adrift off Haiti

The United States Coast Guard rescued six Jamaican nationals adrift Friday about 76 miles south west of Tortuga, Haiti.

On Saturday, the Coast Guard reported those rescued were Garnel Goldson, 30; Rohan Smith, 50; Raymond Foster, 30; Jermaine Brown, 32; Marvin Buchanon, 39; and Jermaine Lobiboun.

Coast Guard Cutter Thetis (WEMC-910) crewmembers observed a handheld flare and diverted to the origin location of a disabled vessel that was on a voyage from Jamaica to Tortuga, the Coast Guard said.

It said the master of the vessel reported to be adrift for two days, and the crew was running low on provisions.

“The cutter Thetis crew safely embarked the six survivors and transferred them to Cuban authorities, with no reported injuries,” it said.

Chris Eddy, Coast Guard 7th District search and rescue coordinator here, said: “The sea can be unforgiving and, when a boat or vessel experiences a casualty at sea, having the right equipment can save lives as this case shows.

“This flare signaled to the crew of the Thetis who was within range to see it, ready to respond, and was able to save these six people,” he said.