Tractor-Trailer Careens Off Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel in Virginia

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Coast Guard Training Center Yorktown unveils its new response boat at the Boat Forces Center Thursday, March 5. (Photo: Petty Officer 2nd Class Nathan Henise)
Coast Guard Training Center Yorktown unveils its new response boat at the Boat Forces Center Thursday, March 5. (Photo: Petty Officer 2nd Class Nathan Henise)

PORTSMOUTH, Va. — The Coast Guard assisted rescue efforts Wednesday when a man driving a tractor-trailer drove off the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel near Cape Charles, Virginia.

Coast Guard Sector Hampton Roads watchstanders were notified at 3:20 p.m. Wednesday a man driving a tractor-trailer carrying soybeans drove off the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel and into the water.

A 45-foot Response Boat-Medium crew launched from Coast Guard Station Cape Charles in Virginia to assist Virginia Beach Police and Fire assets already on scene. Virginia Beach Police was able to reach the man and rescued him from the water at 3:57 p.m. The man was transported to emergency services in stable condition.

"Many thanks to the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel Police for quickly throwing the life preserver to the truck driver, and thanks to the Virginia Beach Police and Fire marine units who recovered him from the water," said Capt. Chris Keane, commander Coast Guard Sector Hampton Roads. "Because of their quick actions the truck driver is now stabilized and receiving the care he needs."

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