Updated
Updated · abcnews.com · Aug 20
ICE Arrests Captain in 2-Death New York Harbor Capsizing After Illegal Entry
Updated
Updated · abcnews.com · Aug 20

ICE Arrests Captain in 2-Death New York Harbor Capsizing After Illegal Entry

3 articles · Updated · abcnews.com · Aug 20

Summary

  • Manuel Ernesto Hernandez-Umana was taken into ICE custody after prosecutors charged him over the Aug. 8 New York Harbor capsizing that killed a 27-year-old woman and her 5-month-old baby.
  • Investigators say the boat was over capacity when it overturned near the Statue of Liberty; 12 survivors were rescued with minor injuries, and the Justice Department charged him with two counts of misconduct and neglect of a ship officer.
  • The Coast Guard Investigative Service said Hernandez-Umana was in the United States illegally, prompting the immigration arrest after a judge had released him following his initial federal court appearance.
  • DHS said the case highlights risks from unlicensed charter operations, while ICE is expected to hold Hernandez-Umana through the criminal case before seeking his removal from the country.

Insights

How did an unlicensed luxury rental company operate illegal, overcrowded tours in a heavily patrolled New York Harbor without detection?
Will the luxury charter business that hired an uncredentialed operator face severe maritime wrongful death liabilities for this preventable tragedy?