2 people, 2 cats rescued after 35-foot sailboat runs aground on Tybee Island

SAVANNAH, Ga. (WTOC) - Emergency crews safely rescued two people and two cats after a 35-foot sailboat became stranded in rough surf near North Beach on Tybee Island.Tybee Island Fire Rescue and the Tybee Island Police Department responded to reports of a vessel in distress near the Taylor Street beach crossover. Officials said strong winds, heavy wave action and challenging ocean conditions left the sailboat uncontrollable and unable to navigate safely.When first responders arrived, wind and waves were actively pushing the boat toward the shore. Once the sailboat reached waist-deep water, two TIFR rescue swimmers entered the surf to assist.Crews worked through shifting surf to secure the vessel’s anchor and safely evacuate both passengers along with their two feline companions. All four were brought ashore without injury. Chatham EMS evaluated the occupants at the scene, and neither required additional medical care.First responders noted this was their second watercraft rescue in two