Operator and his brother went out to retrieve each of their 10 lobster traps.  They knew the vhf radio was not working and could not check the weather.  The wave conditions were bad - between 4-6 foot but were able to still haul a number of their traps.  Surviving brother stated that he felt the boat was overloaded with the traps, line, buoys and assorted gear.  Wave conditions got worse and his brother told him to put his life jacket on.  Their was only 1 life jacket available and it was tied to the back of the operator's chair.  Survivor could not get it on but clutched it under his arms.  A 15 ft wave hit the side of the boat causing it to overturn.  The deceased and his brother were thrown toward the rocks.  He saw his brother struggling and heard him yell that he was not going to make it.  Three waves later he observed him floating face down.  Survivor was able to get to shore of an island.  The vessel washed up ashore as well and he was able to gather items to stay warm and prepared to light the 5 gal fuel tank on fire as a signal.  He was recovered early the next morning by a Coast Guard helicopter.  He described his brother as an experienced boat operator but a daredevil.   Cause of accident inattention to weather/sea conditions/overloaded vessel/insufficient/inaccessible life jackets.
Boston                        