Search for person in water after boat catches fire on River Leven

A major emergency service response was launched on the River Leven after a boat caught fire, causing a person to enter the water.

The vessel went up in flames around 8.30pm on Thursday, with police, firefighters, Coastguard, and Loch Lomond Rescue Boat sent to the scene at Balloch.

The boat was found “well alight” with the occupant having entered the water and made their way to the shore.

Three fire engines and specialist resources were sent to extinguish the blaze, while a person was taken into the care of the Scottish Ambulance Service.

A spokesperson for Loch Lomond Rescue Boat said: “Our crew worked closely with Police Scotland, carrying out enquiries to ensure the individual’s safety while also confirming that no other persons were on board the vessel.

“We operated alongside colleagues from Scottish Fire & Rescue Service, Scottish Ambulance Service & HM Coastguard to support the ongoing response. After some time, it was established that the individual had self-presented at hospital.

The fire was extinguished by emergency services Loch Lomond Rescue Boat

“Our crew remained on scene to provide safety cover and assist firefighters while the incident was brought under control.”

The rescue boat crew helped boat owners move and secure their vessels before returning to the station at 10.44pm.

A spokesperson for HM Coastguard said: “HM Coastguard responded to reports of a vessel fire and a person in water in the River Leven at Balloch yesterday, May 21.

“First informed at around 8.40pm, an HM Coastguard helicopter, Helensburgh and Greenock Coastguard Rescue Teams and Loch Lomond Rescue Boat were sent to the scene, alongside Police Scotland and Scottish Fire and Rescue Service.

“The person in water was assisted ashore, and HM Coastguard provided safety cover until 10.30pm.”

Searches were carried out after the boat caught fire Loch Lomond Rescue Boat

A Scottish Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson said: “We were alerted at 8.28pm on Thursday, May 21 to reports of a boat on fire near to Moss O’ Balloch Park, Balloch Road, Balloch.

“Operations Control mobilised three fire appliances and specialist resources to the area, and firefighters extinguished a fire affecting a boat.

“One casualty was in the care of the Scottish Ambulance Service, and crews left the scene after ensuring the area was made safe.”