MANVILLE, NEW JERSEY — A New Jersey boat captain accused in connection with a fatal capsizing in New York Harbor is now in ICE custody and could face deportation after his criminal case.
Federal prosecutors say Manuel Hernandez, 46, of Manville, was operating a speedboat that capsized near the Statue of Liberty on August 8, killing 27-year-old Sara Sanchez and her five-month-old daughter, Antonella Garcia.
Authorities allege that Hernandez was running unlicensed paid boat tours and that the vessel was carrying 14 people even though it was designed for 10. Prosecutors also said the boat did not have an appropriate life jacket for the infant.
Hernandez has been charged with two counts of misconduct and neglect of a ship officer resulting in death. Each count carries a potential sentence of up to 10 years in prison if he is convicted.
The case has now taken on an immigration dimension as well.
ICE says Hernandez, who is from El Salvador, is currently in immigration custody. Authorities allege that he is in the United States unlawfully and could face removal proceedings after the criminal case is resolved.
The deadly capsizing drew attention because of the number of passengers aboard the vessel and questions over whether the tour was being operated legally.
Federal investigators are continuing to examine the circumstances surrounding the crash, including the boat’s capacity, safety equipment and the captain’s credentials.
For now, Hernandez is facing both a federal criminal case and possible deportation.
Sources: U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of New York; Associated Press; ICE-related reporting. News 12 New Jersey on X
By NJ RADAR Team