A boat fire near City Island in The Bronx over the weekend resulted in injuries to more than 20 people and the arrest of the vessel’s captain on DWI charges.
Joshua Brito, 33, was charged with driving while intoxicated and reckless endangerment after the incident, which occurred near the east end of Hart Island at around 8 p.m. on Saturday, according to WABC.
The fire caused the boat to drift into the Long Island Sound, where Marine 4, a New York City Fire Department vessel, responded to the emergency. The unit rescued three people from the water while the remaining 19 swam to Hart Island and were subsequently transported to City Island by emergency responders for medical evaluation.
Fire Department Assistant Chief Mike Meyers described the operation as well-coordinated, with Marine 4 alerting the Bronx dispatcher of the incident, prompting land units to respond and assist in the rescue efforts. The victims were then transported to a nearby dock, where Engine 70 and EMS personnel awaited to provide further care.
Authorities are continuing their investigation into the cause of the fire, noting that the incident highlights the importance of safety regulations for recreational boating in the area.