Additional Coverage:
- Feds charge speedboat operator after mother and infant are killed in New York Harbor capsizing (apnews.com)
Operator of Capsized Speedboat in New York Harbor to Face Federal Court
NEW YORK – Manuel Hernandez, the 46-year-old operator of a speedboat that overturned in New York Harbor this past weekend, resulting in the deaths of a 27-year-old woman and her infant daughter, is scheduled to appear in federal court in Manhattan on Monday.
Authorities have yet to disclose the specific federal charges against Hernandez. He is already facing state-level reckless endangerment charges connected to the tragic deaths of Sara Sanchez and her 5-month-old daughter, Antonella Garcia.
Details about Hernandez’s legal representation in federal court remain unclear at this time.
According to Nicholas Biase, spokesperson for Manhattan federal prosecutors, Hernandez is currently in federal custody, with more information expected to be released soon.
The incident occurred late Saturday when the 22-foot Bayliner speedboat capsized near the Statue of Liberty. Police divers recovered the mother and child, who were subsequently pronounced dead at a hospital.
Twelve other passengers were rescued and are reported to be in stable condition by the U.S. Coast Guard.
Capt. Doreen McCarthy, commander of the Coast Guard Sector New York, praised the quick and heroic response from multiple agencies and a good Samaritan vessel, crediting their efforts for saving the other passengers aboard the speedboat.