Lockport Fire Chief Luca Quagliano reported that a total of 29 individuals, including 28 passengers and one staff member, were present on the tour boat when it capsized. Following the breach of the cave's exterior wall, 16 individuals were successfully rescued by boat.
The remaining passengers managed to exit the cave unassisted, as the water inside the caves had a depth ranging from two to six feet. It is worth noting that all individuals on the boat were local residents who were taking part in a complimentary tour specifically arranged for hospitality workers.
