GPS forensic analysis and witness statements confirmed that Vessel #1 carrying two occupants was making headway while under power traveling back to the boat launch at 24 MPH. The vessel decreased in speed at the same time, the Operator fell off the vessel over the port side mid-ship. The Operator was wearing an Onyx Type 3 inflatable PFD at the time. The other occupant on the vessel reported that after the Operator went overboard, the motor was off and she observed the kill switch on the deck of the vessel. She was able to get the motor started and tried looking for the Operator. After she started the motor and put it into gear, she lost sight of the Operator. The Operator was recovered from the water by Old Saybrook Fire Department staff/vessel. He was transported to the Middlesex Shoreline Clinic and then transported to Yale New Haven Hospital where he was pronounced dead on 6/9/23. The Operator had a history of cardiac issues and it is unknown if he had a medical event prior to entering the water. The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner ruled the cause of death as complications of drowning and the manner of death as accidental (submerged in water).
Long Island Sound
Old Saybrook                  