Tragedy Strikes as New York Couple Loses Lives in Boating Mishap
A New York couple met a tragic end over the weekend when their boat capsized in a devastating accident. Emergency responders rushed to Great South Bay late on a Sunday night following reports of a collision between two boats.
Shortly thereafter, another distress call came in, this time regarding an overturned boat with no one visible in the surrounding water. Responders feared that passengers might be trapped inside the same vessel.
During the harrowing night search, a rescue diver from the Islip Fire Department located the lifeless body of Renee Deritis, aged 50, underneath the boat’s cabin.
Coordinated Efforts Yield Heartbreaking Results
Determined rescuers from both the Islip and Bay Shore fire departments tirelessly scoured the scene. Ultimately, the Suffolk County Police took over the operation.
The morning following the accident brought the discovery of Louis Deritis, aged 53, the husband of Renee.
Collision Leads to Fatal Outcome
According to authorities, the couple’s smaller boat made an abrupt course change, positioning it directly in the path of a larger 44-foot private fishing boat. Despite the larger boat’s attempt to reduce speed, the collision became inevitable due to momentum, resulting in a tragic crash.
“Tragic,” lamented Ferdinand Caravousanos, the owner of the larger boat involved in the collision, according to CBS reports.
Law enforcement officials have determined that neither drugs nor alcohol played a role in this incident, and there is no evidence of criminal activity.
Fortunately, no one aboard the larger boat sustained injuries during the accident.
Safety Checks for Both Vessels
Both watercraft involved in the incident have been impounded by authorities for thorough safety checks.
The heart-wrenching incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance and safety while out on the water.