NEW YORK (AP) — A tragic boat accident in New York Harbor resulted in the deaths of a mother and her infant daughter, prompting criminal charges against the boat operator. The U.S. Coast Guard announced on Sunday that they are investigating whether the vessel was operating as an illegal charter.
The incident occurred when a 22-foot Bayliner speedboat capsized at approximately 10:25 p.m. on Saturday near Liberty Island, known for the Statue of Liberty, according to the U.S. Coast Guard.
Before police arrived, twelve individuals were pulled from the water. Police divers later found the 27-year-old woman and her 5-month-old daughter, both of whom were transported to a hospital and pronounced dead. The remaining individuals were reported to be in stable condition, as stated by the Coast Guard.
“We are deeply saddened by the tragic loss of life last night, and our thoughts are with the victims’ family and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time,” expressed Capt. Doreen McCarthy, commander of the Coast Guard Sector New York. “We are extremely grateful for the heroic, swift actions of our partner agencies and the Good Samaritan vessel that assisted in rescuing survivors from the water.”
Manuel Hernandez, 46, from New York, faces 13 counts of reckless endangerment, as reported by the police. Attempts to reach him by phone on Sunday were unsuccessful, and the case has not yet appeared in online court records.
The identities of the deceased have not been disclosed, as authorities are awaiting family notification, police indicated on Sunday.
Adam Schwartz, owner of a sightseeing company, recounted that his hot tub boat, Sea the City II, was on a cruise at the time of the accident and took the 12 survivors onboard.
“Our captain and both crew members immediately assisted, called in to the Coast Guard, and then coordinated with the Coast Guard and NYPD Harbor units to bring them to land in Brooklyn,” Schwartz explained to The Associated Press on Sunday.
Capt. McCarthy stated that Coast Guard investigators are collaborating with police to pursue the investigation and are committed to ensuring accountability for any legal violations. The Coast Guard defines an illegal charter as any passenger-for-hire vessel operation lacking Coast Guard credentials, safety equipment, and inspection certificates.
