The operator of a vessel that overturned in New York Harbor near Liberty Island Saturday night has been arrested and charged, while federal investigators examine whether the boat was carrying passengers illegally.
Manuel Hernandez, 46, of New York was taken into custody by the NYPD and now faces 13 counts of reckless endangerment. The case has been referred to the U.S. Southern District Court. The capsizing killed Sara Sanchez, 27, a Queens resident, and her five-month-old daughter, Antonella Garcia.
Rescue and casualties
Emergency services received a 911 call at 10:25 p.m. reporting an overturned boat in the vicinity of Liberty Island. The NYPD Harbour Unit, SCUBA team and aviation assets responded. Twelve people were pulled from the water before police arrived. Divers located Sanchez and her daughter in critical condition; both were transported to NYU Langone Hospital-Brooklyn where they were pronounced dead. The remaining passengers were reported in stable condition.
A good Samaritan vessel, the sightseeing boat Sea the City II, recovered the 12 survivors. Adam Schwartz, whose company operates the vessel, told The Associated Press that his captain and two crew members brought the survivors aboard, alerted the Coast Guard and coordinated with NYPD Harbour units to transfer them to Brooklyn.
Illegal charter investigation
The U.S. Coast Guard has opened a marine casualty investigation and is working with the Coast Guard Investigative Service and the NYPD to determine the cause of the capsizing. Investigators are also examining whether the operation constituted an illegal charter, a passenger-for-hire service that lacks required Coast Guard credentials, safety equipment and a certificate of inspection.
"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," said Capt. Doreen McCarthy, commander of Coast Guard Sector New York. She credited partner agencies and the good Samaritan vessel for the swift rescue of survivors.
Illegal charter operations often lack necessary safety equipment and may not meet the same standards as legal charters, creating hazards for paying passengers, the Coast Guard noted.
Based on reporting by Global News.