Personal Injury Liability

This past weekend, a terrifying scene unfolded off the Bronx shoreline when a 35-foot yacht exploded near Hart Island, forcing 23 passengers to swim for their lives. The captain, Joshua Brito, was arrested at the scene and now faces charges of driving while intoxicated and reckless endangerment. As details continue to emerge, many New Yorkers are left wondering: What are your rights if you’re injured in a boating accident—and what responsibilities do boat operators have to keep passengers safe?

What Happened?

On Saturday night, June 7, 2025, a Carver 35 yacht carrying 23 people burst into flames. The explosion sent passengers—ranging in age from 17 to 58—scrambling into the water to escape the blaze. Most managed to swim to nearby Hart Island, where they were rescued by the US Coast Guard and transported to City Island. Fourteen people were taken to Jacobi Hospital Medical Center, and nine to Montefiore Einstein Hospital. While most suffered minor injuries, one passenger remains in intensive care.

According to reports, the boat was one of several tied together when the explosion occurred. The Carver 35 is typically designed to carry eight to fifteen passengers, raising questions about whether the vessel was overloaded. The captain, who was arrested at the scene, is accused of operating the boat while intoxicated—a serious violation of maritime law.

Legal Responsibilities of Boat Operators

Boating in New York waters is a privilege that comes with significant responsibilities. Boat operators are required by law to act with reasonable care to protect their passengers and others on the water. This includes:

Operating Sober: Just like driving a car, operating a boat under the influence of alcohol or drugs is illegal and extremely dangerous.

Following Capacity Limits: Overloading a vessel can compromise its stability and safety.

Maintaining the Vessel: Regular maintenance and safety checks are essential to prevent mechanical failures and fires.

Providing Safety Equipment: Life jackets, fire extinguishers, and emergency signaling devices must be available and accessible.

When these responsibilities are ignored, the consequences can be catastrophic—as this weekend’s explosion tragically demonstrated.

Passenger Rights After a Boating Accident

If you or a loved one was injured in a boating accident, you have rights. Here’s what you should know:

Seek Medical Attention Immediately: Even if injuries seem minor, it’s important to get checked by a medical professional. Some injuries, such as smoke inhalation or internal trauma, may not be immediately apparent.

Document Everything: If possible, take photos of the scene, your injuries, and any hazards or safety violations you notice. Collect contact information from other passengers and witnesses.

Report the Incident: Boating accidents must be reported to the authorities. In this case, the NYPD and Coast Guard responded, but it’s always wise to ensure an official report is filed.

Consult a Personal Injury Attorney: Maritime law can be complicated, and multiple parties may be liable—including the boat owner, operator, or even the manufacturer if a mechanical defect contributed to the explosion. An experienced personal injury attorney can help you understand your options and pursue compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.

Potential Liability in the Hart Island Explosion

Based on the facts reported, several legal issues may arise from this incident:

Operator Negligence: The captain’s alleged intoxication and possible overloading of the vessel are clear breaches of duty. Victims may have strong claims against the operator for negligence and reckless endangerment.

Owner Liability: If the boat was owned by someone other than the captain, the owner may also be held responsible for failing to ensure the vessel was operated safely and within legal limits.

Product Liability: If a mechanical failure or defect contributed to the explosion, there may be grounds for a claim against the manufacturer or maintenance provider.

Comparative Fault: New York law allows for comparative fault, meaning liability may be shared among multiple parties depending on their role in the accident.

Boating Safety: Lessons for All New Yorkers

This tragic event is a sobering reminder of the importance of boating safety. As summer approaches and more New Yorkers take to the water, keep these tips in mind:

• Never operate a boat under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
• Respect capacity limits and never overload a vessel.
• Ensure all safety equipment is present and in good working order.
• Review emergency procedures with all passengers before setting out.
• If you’re a passenger and feel unsafe, speak up or refuse to board.

How Pulvers, Pulvers & Thompson Can Help

If you or someone you know was affected by the Hart Island boat explosion—or any boating accident—Pulvers, Pulvers & Thompson is here to help. Our experienced attorneys understand the complexities of maritime and personal injury law. We can guide you through the process of seeking compensation and holding negligent parties accountable. Don’t wait to get the help you need. Contact us today for a free consultation, and let us help you protect your rights.

Disclaimer: This post is for legal education purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. No attorney-client relationship has been formed. To the extent this post constitutes attorney advertising, past results do not guarantee similar outcomes.