Unlicensed Boat Operator In Fatal Liberty Island Capsize Held By ICE
Manuel Hernandez, the operator accused of running an overcrowded boat that capsized near Liberty Island on Aug. 8, is in U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement custody and faces state and federal charges.[1]
He faces 13 counts of reckless endangerment in New York and two federal counts alleging misconduct and neglect of a ship officer that resulted in death.[1] Hernandez is 46 and is an El Salvador national.[1] DHS says he admitted entering the United States illegally through Texas in 2007 and falsely claiming U.S. citizenship, and he is being held by ICE pending prosecution and eventual removal.[1]
On Aug. 8, a 22-foot Yamaha AR210 capsized near Liberty Island, killing a 27-year-old woman and her 5-month-old daughter and prompting rescuers to save 12 others.[1]
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📌 Key Facts
- On August 8, 2026, a 22‑foot Yamaha AR210 capsized near Liberty Island, killing a 27‑year‑old woman and her 5‑month‑old daughter and leading to the rescue of 12 others.
- Operator Manuel Hernandez, 46, an El Salvador national, faces 13 New York reckless‑endangerment counts and two federal counts of misconduct and neglect of a ship officer resulting in death.
- DHS says Hernandez has admitted entering the U.S. illegally via Texas in 2007 and falsely claiming U.S. citizenship, and he is now in ICE custody pending prosecution and eventual removal.
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