The operator and passenger departed the boat launch to go fishing. The two were not wearing a personal flotation device nor were any flotation devices or safety and survival equipment on boat. While anchored, the two experienced heavy waves, wind, fog and rain. As the victim actively fished and talked on the telephone, he stood up within the canoe and began to urinate over the portside. As he did this, a wave struck the starboard side and capsized the canoe. The passenger and operator attempted to re-board the canoe, but were unsuccessful. The two attempted to swim to shore, however the weather conditions disoriented the two. As the two swam, the victim made a comment that he was not a good swimmer. A large wave struck the two and the operator lost visual contact with the victim. The operator swam for another two hours and sought refuge aboard an unoccupied vessel moored in New Haven Harbor. The body of the victim was recovered in the area where the operator last saw him.
West Haven                    