Man tells of croc danger after boat crash in Middle Arm mangroves

A MAN, who lost control of his boat and ploughed into mangroves, was left at the mercy of a number of crocodiles he saw during an afternoon on the water

Jayden Stockbridge's boat, half submerged at Middle Arm. Picture: Jayden Stockbridge.

A MAN, who lost control of his boat and ploughed into mangroves, was left at the mercy of a number of crocodiles he saw during an afternoon on the water.

NT Police Northern Watch Commander Greg Pusterla said the man was lucky to escape unharmed with reports he had seen a number of crocodiles in the water nearby after he crashed his boat at Middle Arm.

A crocodile circles Jayden Stockbridge's boat after he crashed in Middle Arm. Picture: Jayden Stockbridge

“A 30-year-old man called emergency services, reporting he was operating a boat, when apparently the throttle has become stuck, causing the boat to crash into the mangroves, resulting in the bow of the boat rising and the stern sinking into the water,” he said.

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“At the time of reporting he also said he’d seen two crocodiles in the area.”

Cdr Pusterla said two nearby boats helped the man to safety before authorities helped on the scene.

“Two recreational fishermen nearby in the area heard him call out — and have come to his aid — after hitting the console in his boat,” he said.

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“Police and St Johns ambulance responded to a report down near Middle Arm … about 2.30 (Monday) afternoon.”

Police are continuing thier investigation.