Updated
Updated · NBC Boston · Jun 27
Cambridge Duck Boat Overturns With 32 Aboard, Injuring 11 After Tow Rope Breaks
Updated
Updated · NBC Boston · Jun 27

Cambridge Duck Boat Overturns With 32 Aboard, Injuring 11 After Tow Rope Breaks

3 articles · Updated · NBC Boston · Jun 27

Summary

  • 11 people were taken to local hospitals after Boston Duck Tours' duck boat "Molly Molasses" rolled onto its side at a Cambridge boat ramp Saturday; authorities said all roughly 32 people aboard were accounted for.
  • Boston Duck Tours said the amphibious vehicle had a mechanical issue and was being towed to land when the tow rope broke, causing it to tip while coming up the ramp at the Charles River entrance.
  • Massachusetts State Police and Cambridge Fire responded just after 3 p.m. to 10 Museum Way, and officials said the injuries were believed to be minor, though an earlier EMS update had confirmed at least two transports.
  • Boston Duck Tours suspended operations for the rest of the day and said it is working with state police and the U.S. Coast Guard as investigators review how a rare mishap struck one of Boston's popular tourist rides.

Insights

A snapped tow rope caused the disaster. Was this a freak accident or a sign of systemic safety failures?
After another serious accident, is it finally time to retire these WWII-era tour vehicles from our city streets?