A boating trip turned tragic on Saturday afternoon when a vessel capsized in rough waters at the mouth of Fire Island Inlet, claiming the life of one man and injuring another, according to Suffolk County Police.
Authorities report that Christopher Sicignano, 68, of Lindenhurst, was operating the boat as it entered the inlet around 4:10 p.m. when turbulent conditions caused it to overturn. Sicignano and his passenger, David Johnson, 70, also of Lindenhurst, were thrown into the water. Neither man was wearing a life jacket, and the boat quickly sank.
A passing boater witnessed the accident and alerted authorities via UHF radio. The Suffolk County Police Marine Bureau and the U.S. Coast Guard responded swiftly. Johnson was recovered by the Coast Guard and transported to Good Samaritan Hospital Medical Center in West Islip, where he was pronounced dead. Sicignano was rescued by a good Samaritan, taken to the Robert Moses State Park Boat Basin, and later treated for minor injuries at the same hospital before being released.
Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident and urge anyone with information to contact the Suffolk County Police Homicide Squad at 631-852-6392.
Boating Safety Tips
- Always wear a life jacket when on the water.
- Check weather conditions before heading out.
- Ensure your boat is equipped with safety gear.
- Avoid boating alone in rough or unpredictable waters.
- Keep a communication device handy for emergencies.
Tribute
Our thoughts are with the families affected by this heartbreaking event. May the memory of those lost serve as a reminder to prioritize safety on the water.
