💛 A quick favor, if you've got a second.
We're really happy that you chose to read one of our stories and sincerely hope you'll stick around to read more. We took our paywall down — for now — but that won't last forever, and when the gate goes back up, we'd love for you to already be on the inside.
It's free. So please enter your email here and don't forget to like and follow us on all of your favorite Social Media platforms!
Manuel Ernesto Hernandez-Umana, the pilot of a speedboat that capsized during a Statue of Liberty tour on August 8, has been taken into custody by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement following his release on bail in the related criminal case. Federal authorities determined that Hernandez-Umana, 46, an El Salvador citizen, falsely claimed U.S. citizenship when entering the country through Texas in 2007 and lied to border officials, according to the Department of Homeland Security.
The incident claimed the lives of 5-month-old Antonella Garcia and her 27-year-old mother, Sara Sanchez. Prosecutors allege that Hernandez-Umana operated the 21-foot Yamaha AR210 without proper Coast Guard licensing, disregarded fundamental maritime safety protocols, and chartered an illegally overcrowded vessel carrying 14 people aboard—four more than its authorized capacity. The tour departed around 7 p.m. and capsized after more than three hours when the boat swamped during a U-turn in rough waters.
According to legal filings, the infant was not equipped with a life preserver because the boat carried none suitable for small children. Hernandez-Umana instructed Sanchez to wear a vest and hold the infant throughout the lengthy voyage, a practice that violates federal maritime regulations, prosecutors stated.
Hernandez-Umana resides in Manville, New Jersey, and worked for Zeus Luxury Rental Inc. on a contract basis beginning last year. He told investigators he borrowed a friend’s personal boat for the August 8 excursion because his own vessel required repairs. Zeus Luxury, which advertises on Instagram and TikTok, faced prior incidents when a company-chartered boat caught fire during a birthday cruise on Long Island Sound last year.
Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin announced that Hernandez-Umana will be deported following his criminal proceedings. The defendant faces charges of causing deaths through misconduct or neglect. He is scheduled to return to court on September 9.
More Stories
FBI Apprehends Albany Woman Accused of Planning Capitol Bombing and Legislator Assassination Plot
Philadelphia Police Identify Suspect in August Assault Spree
Miami Beach Police Sergeant Receives Lifesaving Award for Off-Duty Heimlich Maneuver