Tragic Boat Sinking Off the Coast of New York City Leaves Three Dead, One Presumed Dead
Three people are confirmed dead, with a fourth person presumed dead and two others hospitalised, after a boat sank off the coast of New York City on Sunday (23 February 2025), according to the US Coastguard.
The 30-foot Grady White, carrying six people, took on water and capsized about five miles southeast of Breezy Point, Queens, in the Ambrose Channel during a fishing trip.
Authorities recovered five individuals from the frigid waters, four of whom were unresponsive. Three were later pronounced dead, while the two survivors were transported to a hospital, one in critical condition and the other in stable condition. The water temperature in the search area was 3°C.
The Coastguard, alongside the New York Police Department, Fire Department, New Jersey State Police, and the Sandy Hook Pilots, launched a large-scale search for the remaining missing boater, 52-year-old Vernon Glasford of the Bronx. The operation, which covered approximately 842 square miles over 30 hours, included helicopters, planes, ships and small boats. However, the search was suspended Monday evening after authorities were unable to locate Glasford.
“We extend our deepest sympathies to the family and loved ones of Vernon Glasford,” says Capt. Jonathan Andrechik, commander of Coastguard Sector New York. “The decision to suspend a search is always difficult. Though our active search has ended, our support and sympathy remain with all those impacted by this tragic incident.”
Glasford was last seen wearing a grey hooded sweatshirt, blue jeans and black boots. Speaking to ABC News, his cousin, David Glasford, described him as a “hardworking father” of three children who frequently went fishing with the same group of friends and work colleagues.
Francisca Adames confirmed that her husband, 50-year-old Cecilio Adames, was among the victims. She recalled speaking to him on the phone during the trip. “He told me there’s a lot of wind,” she told NBC.
Authorities say they have yet to determine what caused the boat to sink, and the investigation remains ongoing.
Read reports about international marine search and rescue missions
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