PINEY POINT, Md. — A St. Mary’s River boat fire destroyed a 40-foot yacht Saturday afternoon. Fortunately, two people safely escaped the blazing vessel, identified as the “Osprey,” at the mouth of the St. Mary’s River.
The incident unfolded on Saturday, August 30, 2025, around 1:17 p.m. The U.S. Coast Guard initially received and relayed the distress call about the vessel fire. Soon after, emergency responders activated a large-scale marine rescue and firefighting operation.
Upon their arrival, fire crews observed the 40-foot Viking yacht fully engulfed in flames. This St. Mary’s River boat fire demanded an immediate and coordinated response from multiple agencies.
A Good Samaritan vessel responded and successfully rescued the two occupants from the burning boat, which records show is registered in Washington, D.C. Maryland State Police dispatched a medevac helicopter, which landed at Piney Point Elementary School.
The Department of Natural Resources (DNR) transported the two individuals to the Piney Point public boat launch. There, EMS crews conducted a thorough medical assessment. Meanwhile, fire boats and marine units from St. Mary’s County and surrounding jurisdictions actively battled the intense blaze.
Officials have not yet released additional details about what sparked the blaze. For more information on marine safety, visit the U.S. Coast Guard website.
This is a developing story. Updates will be provided as they become available.
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