A 53-year-old Florida resident, Joseph Baricklow, is safe and sound after a harrowing experience in the waters off St. Lucie Inlet. Baricklow was jet skiing on Sunday when rough conditions caused him to fall into the water, leaving his jet ski adrift.
Witnesses discovered the unmanned watercraft and alerted authorities, prompting a swift response from the Martin County Sheriff's Office (MCSO). Deputies from various units, including Aviation, Community Policing, and Marine, were dispatched to search for the missing jet skier.
The MCSO located Baricklow clinging to rocks near the inlet's north jetty. Due to the turbulent waters, the U.S. Coast Guard was brought in to assist with the extraction. Specialized Coast Guard Aviation Survival Technicians skillfully navigated their helicopter above the precarious rocks and hoisted Baricklow to safety.
Following the rescue, Baricklow was transported to a local hospital for treatment of minor injuries. The MCSO praised the collaborative efforts of their team and the Coast Guard, highlighting the successful interagency cooperation that led to a positive outcome in this life-threatening situation.
