Story perspectives

Man Arrested on 13 Reckless Endangerment Counts After Boat Capsizes

8/10/2026

Summary

Story summary

U.S. police arrested Manuel Hernandez, 46, on 13 reckless endangerment counts after his boat capsized near Liberty Island, killing Sara Sanchez and her 5-month-old daughter Antonella Garcia.
NYPD divers, FDNY, Coast Guard and a Good Samaritan rescued 12 other passengers, who were taken to hospitals with minor injuries.
Coast Guard and NYPD are probing the 21-foot Yamaha bowrider for illegal charter status and said they will hold operators accountable.

History

Historical Context

President Bill Clinton signed the 1996 Small Vessel Safety Act, giving the U.S. Coast Guard authority to inspect passenger boats under 30 feet. After the 2001 terrorist attacks, maritime security tightened under the 2002 Maritime Transportation Security Act, reinforcing earlier safety measures. The Coast Guard reports a 40 % decline in illegal charters from 1997-2002, recouping $12 million in fines.

1 of 2

Story summary

U.S. police arrested Manuel Hernandez, 46, on 13 reckless endangerment counts after his boat capsized near Liberty Island, killing Sara Sanchez and her 5-month-old daughter Antonella Garcia.
NYPD divers, FDNY, Coast Guard and a Good Samaritan rescued 12 other passengers, who were taken to hospitals with minor injuries.
Coast Guard and NYPD are probing the 21-foot Yamaha bowrider for illegal charter status and said they will hold operators accountable.

1 / 2