Boating Collision in Connecticut Leaves Tragic Outcome

A tragic boating accident in Connecticut leaves one dead and two missing as search efforts continue.

At a Glance

One person found dead after a 31-foot motorboat crashed into a jetty in Old Saybrook, Connecticut
Two people remain missing, with search efforts resuming in the morning
Six people hospitalized, including the boat’s operator in critical condition
Accident occurred around 9:15 p.m. Monday at the mouth of the Connecticut River
Lack of life jackets and potential navigation errors under investigation

Fatal Crash and Ongoing Search

A Labor Day boating trip turned tragic in Old Saybrook, Connecticut, when a 31-foot motorboat collided with a jetty, resulting in one fatality and two missing persons. The accident, which occurred around 9:15 p.m. Monday at the mouth of the Connecticut River, has prompted a massive search and rescue operation involving multiple agencies.

According to Will Healey, spokesperson for the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection, the boat was found “half-submerged” near a marina, showing “significant damage” that indicates it was moving at considerable speed upon impact. Six people were hospitalized following the crash, with the boat’s operator in critical condition.

Man dies in boat crash, 2 others missing near Old Saybrook, Connecticut https://t.co/1pbIr83MqV pic.twitter.com/ZWufWvMRGG

— Eyewitness News (@ABC7NY) September 3, 2024

Search Efforts and Challenges

The search for the two missing individuals was suspended overnight due to challenging conditions but is set to resume in the morning. The Coast Guard and LifeStar have deployed helicopters to assist in the operation, which involves at least 120 people considering currents, tides, and wind direction.

“We always hope for the best,” said Capt. Keith Williams, DEEP’s EnCon police, told WFSB. “From what we’re seeing, from evidence [in the] early stages, we’re hoping for the best. But at this point, it’s most likely going to be a recovery.”

The North Madison Volunteer Fire Company termed the incident a “mass casualty incident,” highlighting the severity of the situation. The local community is particularly concerned for the missing individuals due to dangerous water conditions and the reported lack of life jackets.

Investigation and Safety Concerns

Authorities are investigating several factors that may have contributed to the accident. The boat was equipped with GPS, but it’s unclear if it had sonar. The navigation channel is under federal jurisdiction and marked by the U.S. Coast Guard, raising questions about potential navigation errors.

The boat’s occupants were reportedly not wearing life jackets, a crucial safety oversight that may have worsened the outcome. The deceased man found on the boat was confirmed to be without a life jacket. This tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of adhering to boating safety measures, especially when navigating at night.

Community Response and Previous Incidents

The accident has triggered a large-scale response from local and state agencies, demonstrating the community’s commitment to water safety. Authorities are seeking witnesses or boaters with video of the crash to aid in the investigation. The boat has been recovered and brought to a garage at the Environmental Conservation Police department’s marine division in Old Lyme for further examination.

Notably, a similar boat crash occurred near the same location on Labor Day 2023, injuring four people. This pattern of accidents raises concerns about the safety of the area and the need for increased awareness among boaters, especially during holiday periods when waterways are busier.

As the search continues and investigators piece together the events leading to this tragedy, the incident serves as a somber reminder of the risks associated with boating and the critical importance of safety precautions on the water.