ICE Detains Captain of NYC Harbor Boat That Capsized, Killing Mother and Infant
Manuel Ernesto Hernandez-Umana, 46, the captain of a boat that capsized in New York Harbor, has been detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement after the August 8 accident killed a mother and her infant daughter.
The Yamaha AR210 was carrying 14 people near the Statue of Liberty when it overturned. Sara Sanchez, 27, and her 5-month-old daughter, Antonella Garcia, both of Queens, were rescued from the water but later died at a Brooklyn hospital. Twelve others survived.
According to CNN’s reporting, Hernandez-Umana faces two federal counts of misconduct or neglect of a ship officer resulting in death, along with 13 state counts of reckless endangerment. Prosecutors allege he operated without proper licenses, carried more passengers than the vessel’s capacity and accelerated into a swell that flooded the boat’s bow. They also say infant life vests were not available.
The U.S. Coast Guard and Coast Guard Investigative Service are examining whether the trip was an illegal charter lacking required credentials, inspections and safety equipment. Coast Guard rules generally impose additional requirements on boats carrying more than six passengers for hire.
DHS said ICE detained Hernandez-Umana after investigators determined he was unlawfully present in the United States. He remains in ICE custody while awaiting trial and could face removal proceedings after the criminal case concludes. His attorney declined to comment, CNN reported.
For anyone booking a harbor excursion, confirm the operator’s credentials, passenger limits and available life jackets: especially for infants and children. As investigators continue their work, neighbors can support the Garcia family’s privacy and rely on verified updates from CNN and official agencies.
What safety questions do you ask before boarding a private or commercial boat? Share your thoughts with the Brownstone Worldwide community.
