Bucs QB Blaine Gabbert Among People to Rescue Family from Helicopter Water Landing

A helicopter had to make an emergency landing in the water surrounding Davis Islands on Thursday due to a man and his family being trapped in it.

Cohen said that Gabbert was on the water at the time of the incident.

Hunter Hupp and his parents were on a helicopter tour over the city's beaches as a Christmas gift when he heard a loud noise above his head. The helicopter wouldn't be able to make it back to the airport.

A helicopter made an emergency landing in the water. It was difficult for Hupp to escape as the aircraft began to sink.

Hupp said he struggled under the water for between 45 seconds and a minute before he was able to free himself. The pilot and his family escaped with no injuries.

When the helicopter went down, Gabbert was one of the first to respond on his jet ski. Auman said that the veteran signal- caller lives on Davis Islands.

As Hupp's parents and the pilot treaded water, Gabbert and someone on another jet ski came to their aid. He said his father and mother were helped onto the jet skis.

Hupp had no idea the quarterback was one of the rescuers.

They brought us back to the shore and hung out on the beach for a while. We had pleasantries when we reached the ground. We were the only ones who were out there for a while. It was a huge handshake and a big thank you. They went out for a ride and came upon a helicopter family.

The investigation and recovery of the helicopter is being coordinated by the police department.

As a backup to seven-time Super Bowl champion, Tom Brady, Gabbert has been with the Buccaneers since March.