(Photo credit should read KENA BETANCUR/AFP via Getty Images)
Roomies, a night out on the water near one of New York Citys most iconic landmarks has reportedly turned tragic, with Sara Sanchez and her 5-month-old daughter, Antonella Garcia, losing their lives after a boat overturned in New York Harbor. Now, the vessels captain, Manuel Hernandez, is facing charges as authorities work to piece together what happened in the moments leading up to the fatal capsizing.
The 22-foot powerboat was carrying at least 14 people when it overturned near Liberty Island shortly after 10 p.m. Saturday, August 8, according to authorities. Authorities have reportedly identified the two victims as 27-year-old Sara Sanchez and 5-month-old Antonella Garcia, who both lived at the same Queens, New York, address, according to the NYPD. The U.S. Coast Guard previously referred to the victims as a mother and child. Atthe same time, sources familiar with the investigation told ABC News that Sanchez and Garcia were mother and daughter.
The boats captain, 46-year-old Manuel Hernandez, was arrested early Sunday and charged with 13 counts of reckless endangerment, according to the NYPD and U.S. Coast Guard. Investigators are still working to determine what caused the vessel to overturn, and the Coast Guard is also examining whether the trip may have been operating as an illegal charter.
Following the capsizing, 12 other people were rescued from the water and taken to area hospitals with minor injuries, according to officials. Additionally, the NYPDs Harbor Unit, SCUBA Team, and Aviation Unit were among the responders who rushed to the scene as crews worked to get everyone out of the water.
Furthermore, authorities have not yet determined the cause of the boat’s capsize. The Coast Guard, the Coast Guard Investigative Service, and the NYPD are continuing to investigate the fatal incident, including the circumstances surrounding the vessels operation. Moreover, Hernandez is facing current reckless endangerment charges as the investigation continues. Also, it remains unclear whether he has obtained an attorney.
