On July 19, 2025, the Maryland State Police Aviation Command (MSPAC) conducted a critical aerial hoist rescue in the Chesapeake Bay, saving one of three victims after their boat overturned 300 yards offshore. The Maryland State Police Aviation team, operating Trooper 7 from their California, Maryland base, swiftly responded to a distress call, showcasing their expertise in search and rescue operations.
Rapid Response to Emergency
At approximately 5:00 p.m., St. Mary’s County fire and rescue personnel were dispatched to assist three individuals stranded in the Chesapeake Bay. The Maryland State Police Aviation crew, monitoring the county dispatch radio, overheard the call and self-launched after coordinating with St. Mary’s Emergency Communications Center (ECC) and SYSCOM. Trooper 7, equipped with an Augusta Westland AW-139 helicopter, was tasked with locating the victims and performing an aerial hoist if necessary.
Upon reaching the scene, Trooper 7 coordinated with the Bay District Volunteer Fire Department’s incident command officer, who requested an aerial hoist due to the delayed arrival of the nearest fireboat. The Maryland State Police Aviation team hovered over the victims, deployed a rescue basket, and successfully hoisted one individual into the aircraft, securing them safely. A Calvert County fireboat arrived shortly after, and Trooper 7 guided it to the remaining two victims, who were then rescued from the water.
Medical and Support Role
After the hoist, the Maryland State Police Aviation crew transitioned to a potential medical evacuation role but determined the rescued victim did not require hospital transport. Trooper 7 landed near the command post, transferring the individual to a waiting ambulance and family members. The seamless operation highlighted the Maryland State Police Aviation’s ability to adapt across mission types, from rescue to medical support.
MSPAC’s Broader Mission
Since its establishment in 1970, the Maryland State Police Aviation Command has provided critical services across Maryland, operating 10 AW-139 helicopters from seven bases. These aircraft ensure 24/7 coverage for missions including medical evacuations, law enforcement, search and rescue, homeland security, and disaster assessment. The success of the July 19 rescue underscores the importance of collaboration with local fire, rescue, EMS, and law enforcement agencies, a hallmark of Maryland State Police Aviation operations.
The AW-139 helicopter, used in the Chesapeake Bay rescue, is equipped for complex missions, offering advanced navigation and rescue capabilities. The Maryland State Police Aviation team’s training and equipment enable rapid responses to emergencies, ensuring safety for Maryland residents and visitors.
Community Impact and Preparedness
The Chesapeake Bay rescue demonstrates the Maryland State Police Aviation’s vital role in protecting Maryland’s waterways. With summer boating season increasing risks, MSPAC’s readiness ensures timely interventions. Residents and mariners can contact Maryland State Police for more information on aviation services at 410-761-7550.
