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Bronx Boat Blaze: 22 Rescued, Captain Charged With DWI

A multi-agency team is investigating the cause of the fire following a critical injury sustained during the rescue effort

Emergency responders put out a boat fire near Hart Island in the Bronx on June 7, 2025.
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The NYPD Harbor Unit is seen in the East River near Gracie  Mansion Early Monday, July 8, 2024. Luiz C. Ribeiro for NY Daily News)
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Overview

  • At around 8 p.m. on June 7, a 44-foot powerboat with an enclosed cabin caught fire near the east end of Hart Island in the Bronx
  • First responders from NYPD harbor and aviation units, FDNY Marine 4 and the U.S. Coast Guard rescued three people from the water and coordinated the evacuation of 19 swimmers to shore
  • One passenger remains in critical condition and others were treated for burns and smoke inhalation at local hospitals, with injured adults ranging in age from 18 to 58
  • Boat captain Joshua Brito, 33, was arrested at the scene and faces charges including driving while intoxicated and reckless endangerment
  • Authorities have ruled out a collision and investigators continue to probe potential mechanical failures and other causes of the blaze