Feds Probe NY Harbor Capsize Amid Illegal Charter Suspicions

Authorities are investigating whether a capsized, overcrowded boat in New York Harbor was tied to an illegal charter operation, with federal prosecution possible for the operator. Manuel Hernandez, 46, was moved into federal custody Sunday after treatment at Maimonides Medical Center in Brooklyn, sources told The Post, and charges could be filed as early as Monday. Hernandez had been held by the NYPD on 13 counts of reckless endangerment after his arrest Saturday night, but those local charges are not expected to proceed as the case shifts to federal investigators. Investigators are reviewing whether the 2019 white 21-foot Yamaha carried more people than allowed when it overturned near Liberty Island with 14 aboard. The Coast Guard is treating it as a possible unauthorized charter, citing potential issues such as lack of proper credentials, safety gear, or certificate of inspection. Two passengers—Sara Sanchez, 27, and her 5-month-old daughter Antonella Garcia—died later at NYU Langone Hospital—Brooklyn; the father survived, and 12 people were treated with minor injuries.