Boat captain detained by ICE after New York Harbor capsizing kills mother and infant

Manuel Hernandez, a 33-year-old native of El Salvador, was taken into custody by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement on Wednesday following his federal arraignment on charges related to a boat capsizing in New York Harbor. The incident, which occurred nearly two weeks earlier, resulted in the deaths of 27-year-old Sarah Sanchez and her 5-month-old daughter, Antonella Garcia. Authorities allege that Hernandez conducted unlicensed boat tours in the harbor and that the vessel overturned due to reckless operation. The Department of Homeland Security said Hernandez entered the United States illegally in 2007 after providing false information to a border agent and claiming U.S. citizenship. After being released on bond, he was detained by ICE, which determined his immigration status was unlawful. He will remain in ICE custody while his criminal case proceeds, and, if convicted, will serve any imposed prison term before being deported.

"He entered the United States illegally and provided false statements to a border agent," a DHS spokesperson said. "He will remain in ICE custody pending the outcome of his criminal case," the spokesperson added.