Drunk Boating Incident Injures 22 Off City Island: Legal Insights from Bronx Personal Injury Lawyers

A weekend celebration on the water turned tragic when a boat carrying more than 20 passengers caught fire near Hart Island on Saturday evening. According to the FDNY and local news sources, the captain, 33-year-old Joshua Brito of the Bronx, was arrested and charged with boating while intoxicated (BWI) and reckless endangerment. The fire left 22 people injured, including one individual who remains in critical condition.

As Bronx personal injury lawyers representing victims in catastrophic accidents throughout the borough, including City Island, we understand the physical and emotional toll such incidents take on survivors and their families. This case highlights the dangers of impaired boating and the legal options available to those injured by negligent operators.

What Happened?

Eyewitness videos captured chaotic scenes as flames erupted from the rear of the boat, sending passengers scrambling toward the front deck. Some passengers jumped overboard in a desperate attempt to escape the blaze. FDNY Marine 4, which was on routine patrol in the area, spotted the fire and coordinated a multi-agency rescue. Three individuals were pulled from the water by marine units, while 19 others managed to swim to Hart Island and were later transported to City Island for medical treatment.

The FDNY described the rescue as a “complex operation” due to the number of victims and the coordination required between marine and land-based EMS units.

Legal Accountability in Drunk Boating Accidents

Boating while intoxicated is just as dangerous—and illegal—as driving under the influence. In New York, boat operators can be charged under the same DWI statutes that apply to motor vehicles. When intoxicated boating leads to serious injury, victims may be entitled to file civil claims for:

Medical expenses
Pain and suffering
Lost income
Long-term rehabilitation or disability

In this case, preliminary reports suggest that overcrowding may also have played a role. The boat was reportedly carrying a large group, potentially beyond safe capacity. If this is confirmed, further parties, such as the boat’s owner or rental company, could also be held liable.

We Represent Boat Fire and Drunk Boating Victims in the Bronx

At Gair, Gair, Conason, Rubinowitz, Bloom, Hershenhorn, Steigman & Mackauf, our attorneys have extensive experience representing victims of boating accidents, including those injured due to intoxicated or negligent operators. Whether the incident involves private vessels, party boats, or commercial charters, our firm has the resources and legal expertise to uncover all liable parties and fight for full compensation.

If you or a loved one was injured in the City Island boat fire or another boating accident in the Bronx or in New York City, call us at 212-943-1090 for a free consultation.