Homeless Migrant Arrested for Stealing Historic NYC Fireboat and Additional Sailboat

The suspect, identified as Juan Hernandez, embarked on a chaotic overnight journey down the Hudson River, leading to his arrest early Thursday morning.

• Juan Hernandez, a 22-year-old migrant from Ecuador, commandeered the decommissioned NYC fireboat, John J. Harvey, and later a sailboat.
• The initial theft occurred at Pier 66, with Hernandez eventually getting stuck and abandoning the fireboat near Pier 64.
• Unable to manage the fireboat's engine, Hernandez plunged into the Hudson and commandeered a second vessel owned by a local sailing school.
• NYPD's Harbor Unit apprehended Hernandez on the sailboat at Pier 51 after a 911 call alerted them to his presence.
• The historic fireboat, involved in notable rescues and public services, was assessed for damage post-recovery.

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