Charges Filed Against Boat Captain

Manuel Hernandez, the captain of a boat that capsized near Liberty Island, has been charged following the deaths of a young woman and her baby. Federal prosecutors in New York charged him with two counts of misconduct and neglect as a ship officer, leading to death. Hernandez, who hails from Manville, New Jersey, was released on $50,000 bail after appearing in court. He did not enter a plea and declined to comment through his attorney.

Details of the Tragedy

Sara Sanchez, 27, and her 5-month-old daughter, Antonella Garcia, lost their lives in the incident. Hernandez was operating a Yamaha AR210 jet vessel, which was not registered or certified for commercial use. The vessel exceeded its maximum capacity, carrying 14 people instead of the allowed 10. No infant-sized flotation devices were present on board.

On the night of the incident, Hernandez was using a friend’s boat for a tour around the Statue of Liberty, which had been arranged for $1,800. Although he had previously operated a similar-sized personal boat, he was unaware of the capacity limit on the vessel he was using.

Accident Events

Hernandez instructed the parents to hold their baby using an adult flotation device as the boat lacked appropriate ones for infants. During the tour, a swell caused the vessel to capsize, throwing all passengers overboard. Immediate rescue efforts by other vessels, including police and Coast Guard, saved Hernandez and eleven others. Unfortunately, Sanchez and her baby were unresponsive when recovered and later pronounced dead at a Brooklyn hospital.

Non-compliance with Regulations

The legal complaint reveals Hernandez’s lack of a merchant mariner credential (MMC) and a Coast Guard certificate of inspection—both necessary for commercial operations. His failure to obtain these stems from his unawareness of the requirements. The boat was unsuitable for carrying the number of passengers onboard, according to federal regulations.

Operators must meet various criteria, including experience documentation and safety training, to acquire necessary credentials. Hernandez admitted ignorance of these requirements, leading to violations of operational standards.

Community Support for the Family

The incident has prompted community support for Sara Sanchez’s partner, Andres Garcia, who survived the tragedy. Garcia’s workplace, Il Punto Restaurant and Marco Hotel, organized an online fundraiser to support him and his remaining 6-year-old child. Described as a diligent worker and devoted family man, Garcia had plans with his family on the night of the accident, choosing to spend time with them instead of working.

Antonio Russo, Garcia’s employer, expressed sorrow over the tragic loss and highlighted Garcia’s dedication to his family across continents.