A vessel carrying two occupants was heading east toward the CT River.  The steering lost communication with auto pilot and made an abrupt turn. It is unknown whether the vessel turned due to a mechanical malfunction or due to an accidental movement of the autopilot joystick by the Operator. The Operator was thrown into the deck and sustained non-life threatening injuries and was hospitalized. The other occupant did not sustain any injuries. No damage to the vessel was reported.
Long Island Sound
Old Saybrook                  