The National Transportation Safety Board has released its initial findings into the tragic boat capsizing on Lake Tahoe that claimed eight lives, including three residents from New York’s Finger Lakes region.
According to the NTSB, the 28-foot recreational vessel Over the Moon capsized during stormy weather near D.L. Bliss State Park on June 22. The board’s report, released Wednesday, outlines the timeline from the boat’s launch in Tahoe City to the moment it was overwhelmed by dangerous waves and high winds.
Among those killed were 69-year-old James Guck and 66-year-old Theresa Giullari, both of Honeoye, and 63-year-old Stephen Lindsay of Springwater.
The report confirms that lifejackets were accessible on board the vessel, countering early speculation about safety equipment. Crews later recovered two lifejackets and one life ring, along with the final two victims from the lake bottom near the capsizing site.
The boat was recovered by a salvage company and inspected by both the U.S. Coast Guard and NTSB. Investigators say they found no signs of a hull breach, grounding, or impact with another object. However, the NTSB is continuing to examine the boat’s bilge pumps and engine fuel filter as part of the ongoing investigation.
Toxicology results for the boat’s occupants are still pending as authorities work to determine whether alcohol or other substances played a role in the incident.
Two other passengers were injured but survived the capsizing. Witnesses and first responders braved the severe weather in efforts to rescue those on board.
The investigation remains active.
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