Suffolk County Marine Bureau officers rescued a Commack man from choppy seas along the LI Sound Sunday afternoon. On Sunday, July 10th, 2016, Russell and Kim Giannotti dropped anchor on their boat, approximately a Mile and a Half North of Eaton’s Neck Point, for some afternoon fishing. However, a fishing line got caught on the boat’s propeller.
Russell Giannotti dove overboard in an attempt to untangle the fishing line. But upon trying to board the boat, the ladder broke, leaving Russell stranded in choppy water. His wife, Kim quickly threw a life preserver and rescue rope over to her husband. However the rough seas made it difficult for Giannotti to do anything more than hold onto the life vest and rope. Shortly after, Giannotti became entangled in rope, struggling to stay afloat in the water.
At approximately 4:30 p.m. a passing boater observed the distressed swimmer and called 911. The sea conditions made it virtually impossible for the other boater to assist, more than providing the victim’s location to police dispatchers.
Marine Bureau Officers Christopher DeFeo and Anthony Sangimino were the first to arrive in Marine Bravo. However, a total of two Marine Bureau vessels, a Suffolk County Police helicopter the U.S. Coast Guard and Huntington Harbor Master Marine 3 all responded to the search area.
Officers DeFeo and Sangimino were directed to the victim’s location via Marine VHF radio thanks to the nearby boater. They were able to position Marine Bravo close enough to Giannotti, to throw him a life ring and pulled him aboard. Russell Giannotti was treated for exposure on board Marine Bravo, while Officers DeFeo and Sangimino transported him to Soundview Boat Ramp in Northport.
Once on shore, rescue personnel from Northport Fire Department were ready and prepared to transport Russell to the hospital. However, Giannotti refused medical attention for exposure and a few minor abrasions. The Huntington Harbormaster Marine 3 took the victim’s boat in tow. Russell Giannotti was reunited with his wife and boat, shortly after. Both Russell and Kim returned to Huntington Harbor, on their boat, without assistance.