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ICE detains operator of boat that capsized in NY Harbor, killing mom and baby girl
By
Brittany Kriegstein
Published Aug 20, 2026
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Michael M. Santiago
By
Brittany Kriegstein
Published Aug 20, 2026
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Immigration and Customs Enforcement on Wednesday detained the operator of a boat that capsized in New York Harbor earlier this month — killing a mother and her infant daughter — federal officials said.
Manuel Hernandez, 46, is in federal custody and could face deportation back to his native El Salvador, according to the Department of Homeland Security. DHS did not immediately specify when or how he was taken into custody.
Hernandez was previously arrested by the NYPD in connection with the Aug. 8 incident, which killed 27-year-old Sara Sanchez and her 5-month-old daughter Antonella Garcia. There were a total of 14 people on the 22-foot bowrider, which normally has capacity for nine or 10.
Federal prosecutors then took over the case, as the United States Coast Guard investigated whether Hernandez, who lived in Manhattan, was operating an illegal charter boat.
DHS said in a statement the Coast Guard had determined Hernandez-Umana was in the country illegally.
This is a developing story and may be updated.
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Brittany Kriegstein
Brittany Kriegstein covers all breaking news around New York City, with a focus on crime and gun violence. Got a tip? Email Brittany at [email protected].
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Gothamist is funded by sponsors and member donations
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