The U.S. Coast Guard has suspended its search for Vernon Glasford, a 52-year-old man who went missing after a boat capsized in the busy shipping channel between Staten Island and Queens over the weekend. The tragic incident unfolded on Sunday afternoon in the Ambrose Channel near Breezy Point, a popular area for fishing and boating activities.
Tragedy in New York Waters: What Happened?
According to authorities, six people were aboard a 30-foot pleasure craft that departed from a marina in Howard Beach, Queens, for a fishing trip. A distress call was received around noon on Sunday, prompting a swift response from rescue teams.
- Five people were pulled from the water, but three were later pronounced dead.
- The two survivors were transported to Staten Island University Hospital, though no updates on their conditions have been provided.
- The search for Glasford lasted over 30 hours, covering 842 square miles with the use of helicopters, ships, and planes before it was suspended on Monday night.
A Devastating Loss for Families
The tragedy has left families grappling with grief and unanswered questions. Glasford’s sister, Jenel Bobb, shared emotional memories of her brother, highlighting his love for fishing and his generous nature.
“He went fishing and he didn’t come home. That’s all we know,” Bobb said.
“The water was his sport. That’s his favorite thing to do.”
Bobb last spoke to her brother on Saturday night, when he told her of his plans to go fishing the next day—words that would be their final exchange.
Remembering the Victims: A Loving Father’s Final Moments
Among those who lost their lives was 50-year-old Cecilio Adames, described by his family as a loving husband and father. His wife, Francisca Adames, recalled her concerns about the weather conditions that day.
- Dangerous Winds: Adames had mentioned the hazardous wind conditions during a phone call earlier in the day.
- Family Memories: His daughter, Alisha Adames, shared how he was always willing to help others, often taking her boating with him on similar trips. She had opted not to join him on Sunday.
“He always risked his life trying to help other people,” said Alisha.
What Caused the Boat to Capsize?
The exact cause of the boat’s capsizing remains under investigation. Officials are considering various factors, including:
- Rough Water Conditions: With offshore water temperatures around 38°F (3°C), hypothermia could set in within 10 minutes of exposure.
- Wind Speeds: Dangerous wind conditions may have contributed to the boat’s instability.
- Safety Gear: Authorities have not yet confirmed whether passengers were wearing life jackets at the time of the incident.
Coast Guard’s Safety Recommendations:
- Wear proper safety gear, including life jackets
- Carry a marine radio for communication
- Have flares on hand for emergency signaling
“Cold water can be very dangerous, especially for anybody who might be entering the water,” said Capt. Jonathan Andrechik of the U.S. Coast Guard.
Unrelated Body Found on Staten Island Beach
In a separate incident, a body was discovered on Midland Beach in Staten Island on Monday afternoon. However, officials do not believe the discovery is connected to the boat accident.
Coast Guard Suspends Search Efforts
After covering 842 square miles over 30 hours using planes, helicopters, and boats, the U.S. Coast Guard officially suspended the search for Vernon Glasford on Monday night. The investigation into the cause of the accident is still ongoing.
For now, the families of the victims and the missing man are left to mourn and search for answers.
