A Carteret Fire Department marine unit was heavily damaged Friday afternoon after being struck by a surfacing whale while operating in the Arthur Kill near the mouth of Raritan Bay, officials said.
Officials say Marine Unit 2 was traveling south of Arthur Kill when a whale suddenly surfaced and struck the underside of the vessel’s stern, causing significant damage and rapid flooding.
All firefighters aboard were forced to abandon the boat within seconds of the impact. Officials confirmed that all personnel were safely rescued, and no injuries were reported…