Man rescued from Port marina was intoxicated, police say

By Gitte Laasby of the Journal Sentinel

Port Washington - A 61-year-old intoxicated man nearly drowned Sunday evening when tried to tie up his boat at the Port Washington Marina, police said Monday.

Police and first responders were dispatched to the marina for a report of a man in the water about 5:45 p.m. Sunday, Port Washington police said in a news release. The caller reported that someone had fallen from a boat and was unable to get out of the water.

When officers arrived, they found Thomas G. Riddle, 61, of Wauwatosa, in the water near a sailboat that was docked south of the boat launch ramps, the release said. Officers were unable to pull him from the water, but held on to him and used flotation devices to keep his head above water until divers from the fire department were able to enter the water and lift him out.

According to witnesses, Riddle's boat struck a pier as it was navigating through the marina and preparing to dock. Witnesses observed Riddle dock the boat and tie off the stern line. While he tried to tie off the bow, witnesses heard a splash and saw him in the water. They immediately called 9-1-1.

After his rescue, Riddle was transported for medical treatment.

Police said they believe alcohol was a factor in the incident. Riddle was issued a citation for operating a motor boat while under the influence of an intoxicant.

About Gitte Laasby

Gitte Laasby is the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel's Public Investigator. She investigates government issues and consumer affairs.

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