Last Updated on June 8, 2025
A harrowing incident unfolded near Hart Island in New York City when a boat fire forced nearly two dozen people into the water. The blaze, which occurred on Saturday night, resulted in one person being critically injured and the boat's captain arrested on charges of driving while intoxicated and reckless endangerment. Emergency services swiftly responded to the scene.
Boat Bursts Into Flames Near Hart Island
On Saturday night, a boat carrying 22 individuals erupted in flames in the Long Island Sound, just off the eastern end of Hart Island. The incident, which occurred around 8:30 p.m., sent plumes of thick black smoke billowing into the night sky, visible from the Bronx. The sudden conflagration forced all passengers to abandon the vessel and enter the water.
Rescue Efforts and Injuries
First responders, including the FDNY, NYPD Harbor and Aviation, and the U.S. Coast Guard, launched a rapid rescue operation. Of the 22 people who entered the water:
- 19 managed to swim to the shore of Hart Island.
- 3 were pulled from the water by rescue teams.
One individual sustained critical injuries, while the remaining passengers suffered non-life-threatening injuries. All victims were transported to nearby hospitals for evaluation.
Captain Arrested
Authorities have arrested the boat's captain, 33-year-old Joshue Brito. He faces charges of:
- Driving While Intoxicated (DWI)
- Reckless Endangerment
The cause of the fire remains under investigation by FDNY officials and the Coast Guard. Initial reports from sources suggested the fire was sparked by an explosion on the boat, though this has not been officially confirmed.
Key Takeaways
- A boat fire near Hart Island forced 22 people into the Long Island Sound.
- One person was critically injured, with others sustaining non-life-threatening injuries.
- The boat's captain, Joshue Brito, was arrested and charged with DWI and reckless endangerment.
- The cause of the fire is currently under investigation.
- Emergency services, including FDNY, NYPD, and the U.S. Coast Guard, were involved in the rescue operation.
Sources:
- 1 critically injured in boat fire near Hart Island, CBS News.
- Over 20 people rescued from boat fire near NYC's Hart Island, FOX 5 New York.
- Captain arrested, charged with DWI in boat fire near Hart Island, News 12 - The Bronx.
- Rescuers rush to pull 22 victims from water after boat bursts into flames in Long Island Sound, New York Post.
- Heroic couple on vacation saves six lives after a boat explodes on the River Thames, Fox News.
