Stranded in the Weeds: Elmwood Park First Responders Rescue Fishermen on Passaic River

River Rescue: Elmwood Park Fire Dept Deploys Boats to Save Stranded Fishermen

photos courtesy of Boyd Loving’s Facebook

the staff of the Ridgewood blog

Elmwood Park NJ, What started as a quiet Sunday morning on the water quickly turned into an emergency operation for a pair of local anglers on the Passaic River.

Late Sunday morning on June 21, 2026, the Elmwood Park Fire Department sprang into action following reports of a disabled watercraft. A 17-foot motorized boat carrying two fishermen had become heavily entangled in thick river weeds just north of the busy Market Street Bridge.

Multi-Agency Response Ensures a Safe Outcome

With the vessel completely immobilized by the dense vegetation, emergency crews quickly coordinated a water rescue. The response showcased seamless teamwork among regional first responders:

• Water Deployment: The Elmwood Park FD launched two rescue boats into the Passaic River to reach the stranded vessel.

• Safe Recovery: Emergency personnel successfully freed the 17-foot boat and towed it safely back to the Elmwood Park Municipal Marina located on River Drive.

• On-Scene Support: The Elmwood Park Police Department, Elmwood Park EMS, and the Fair Lawn Rescue Squad all responded to ensure the safety of everyone involved.

Thankfully, no injuries were reported by either of the fishermen, and the scene was cleared without further incident. Local authorities remind boaters to stay vigilant of shifting river conditions and seasonal weed growth, which can quickly foul propellers and strand even experienced captains.

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• Tags: Elmwood Park NJ Passaic River Boat Rescue Fire Department Fair Lawn Rescue Bergen County News Emergency Response