Operator #1 stated, we left the Shrewsbury Rocks about 1:30 am due to rough seas.  I was following the GPS and Radar heading back along Sandy Hook in what showed deep water when we hit bottom right along the beach.  I called Tow Boat US for a tow and he quoted me a price of about $1,000 over the phone.  When he arrived on scene he said it would cost about $3,000.  I told him that I would think about it.  At this time, with the assistance of a few fishermen, we attempted to push the boat out into deeper water, but the waves hit the side of the boat and filled with seawater.

Witness #1 concurs with operator #1

Investigation at the scene revealed, Operator #1 and witness #1 stated, they departed Staten Island, NY at 7:00 pm on June 3, 2011 for an overnight striped bass fishing trip to the Shrewsbury Rocks fishing grounds.  This area is located approximately 1 mile off Monmouth Beach.  At about 1:30 am June 4, 2011 while at anchor, operator is awaken by rough seas pounding the hull.  At this time he decides to pull the anchor and head for home due to the adverse sea conditions.  At approximately 2:00 am vessel runs aground on Sandy Hook near buoy #11.  Operator #1 estimates speed at impact to be approximately 15kts, and that he was watching his GPS and radar at the time of impact.  Both instruments showed vessel was in deep water at time of impact.  Vessel was later towed to Sandy Hook Bay Marina by Sea Tow.  I should be noted, the entire shoreline demographics have changed significantly due to pounding surf and tidal flow.
Middletown                    