A mother and her baby daughter have drowned after their boat capsized in New York City's harbour. The incident occurred on Saturday, August 8, when a 22-foot Bayliner speedboat got into trouble near Liberty Island, home to the Statue of Liberty.
More than a dozen people were thrown into the water around 10:25 p.m. Rescuers pulled 12 people from the water before police arrived. Divers later located the 27-year-old woman and her five-month-old girl, who were both pronounced dead in hospital. The coastguard reported that the others were stable.
Arrest Made
Police have arrested 46-year-old Manuel Hernandez of New York, charging him with 13 counts of reckless endangerment. The victims' identities have not been released pending notification of family.
Captain Doreen McCarthy, the coast guard sector New York commander, said: "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. We are extremely grateful for the heroic, swift actions of our partner agencies and Good Samaritan vessels who assisted in rescuing survivors from the water."
Investigation Underway
McCarthy said Coast Guard investigators are working with police to investigate and are committed to holding lawbreakers accountable. According to the Coast Guard, an illegal charter is any passenger-for-hire vessel operation that lacks Coast Guard credentials, safety equipment and inspection certificates.
