Matriarch Dies Day After Dramatic Island Rescue from Boat Fire

A tragic incident unfolded recently when a 73-year-old woman died just one day after she and her family were rescued from a remote island in Massachusetts. The U.S. Coast Guard rescued Cynthia Sullivan and her family following a harrowing escape from their burning boat.

Incident Details

The Sullivans were aboard their 30-foot powerboat, The Third Wave, when a fire erupted while they were anchored in Tarpaulin Cove. The family’s dog alerted them to the flames as they slept. In a desperate attempt to survive, Cynthia, her husband Patrick, 72, and their son Tyler, 37, swam approximately four miles to Naushon Island, located near Martha’s Vineyard.

Rescue Operation

After safely reaching the island, the family sheltered in a barn for over 24 hours. They struggled with injuries from the fire and waited for assistance. Finally, on Wednesday morning, Tyler was able to contact the Coast Guard using a marine radio that had washed ashore.

• Radio Call: Tyler broadcasted a mayday message indicating their dire situation.
• Rescue Team: A Coast Guard helicopter arrived to airlift the family to safety.
• Hospital Destination: They were transported to Cape Cod Hospital in Hyannis.

Their family members had reported the Sullivans missing when they failed to return home as scheduled. Multiple agencies attempted to locate them after their cellphones were submerged with the boat.

Aftermath and Family Response

Sadly, Cynthia Sullivan passed away on Thursday from her injuries. A family member shared the news via Facebook, reminiscing about her love for music and expressing grief for the loss. Meanwhile, Patrick is reportedly recovering and breathing on his own.

Acknowledging Heroic Efforts

Tyler has been hailed as a hero for his quick thinking and ability to save his family under chaotic circumstances. Chris Sullivan, another family member, highlighted the family’s deep loss while also showing gratitude for the support received during this difficult time.

The U.S. Coast Guard emphasized the importance of safety measures in boating, highlighting that proper equipment and training can make a significant difference in emergencies like this. They encourage mariners to pursue first aid training and ensure their vessels are equipped with safety gear.

This tragic event serves as a reminder of the potential dangers associated with boating, as well as the remarkable capacity for human resilience in the face of adversity.