Boat Collision on New York City's East River Leaves Five Injured

Cabana - Photographer: thehorkofchuck - ShipSpotting.com

A collision between two boats on New York City’s East River injured at least five people on Sunday afternoon, authorities reported. The crash occurred near the FDR Drive, between 23rd and 25th streets, at approximately 2 p.m., and was captured on video.

Officials confirmed that one of the vessels involved was the party boat Cabana, which was carrying approximately 300 passengers at the time. The other vessel, a private boat identified by the U.S. Coast Guard as Let's Live II, reportedly collided with the party boat before fleeing the scene.

The Cabana’s manager told CBS News New York that the impact broke a window and shattered part of another. Photos from the incident show a large gash across the front of the Let's Live II. The U.S. Coast Guard has since been in contact with the private boat’s owner, who admitted that the vessel was operating on autopilot at the time of the collision.

According to the NYPD, three people aboard the Cabana were taken to local hospitals, while two individuals on the Let's Live II sustained minor injuries. Thankfully, all injuries are reported as minor, and no arrests have been made. The cause of the crash remains under investigation.

Passengers scheduled for events at the Cabana later that evening were reportedly unaware of the crash. Ticket holders were informed they would need to switch to another boat for their events.

Charlotte Bendkowski, a party attendee, said, “It’s definitely a bit of a concern, but it wouldn’t be going ahead if it wasn’t safe, so I feel comfortable in that.” Similarly, Sophia Scarsi remarked, “I guess I’m glad that we are changing to another boat. At least they figured it out, and they want to get us to a good one, rather than getting on one that was in the crash.”

The Cabana will remain docked until repairs are completed and the Coast Guard clears it for operations.

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