A weekend evening in the Hamptons turned chaotic and dangerous after a boat crashed ashore in Hampton Bays on Sunday night, leaving several people hospitalized and the vessel’s captain under arrest.
The serious crash, which occurred around 8:50 p.m., took place on the Great Peconic Bay side and has now prompted a full investigation by the Southampton Town Police Detective Squad.
Authorities say the boat, operating at a high speed, slammed into the Shinnecock Canal jetty before coming to a rest on the sands of Meschutt Beach County Park. The violent impact left the vessel heavily damaged and its passengers injured.
Emergency responders were quickly dispatched to the scene, where they rendered aid to the injured and transported multiple individuals to local hospitals for treatment. Fortunately, despite the severity of the crash, no fatalities have been reported. The exact number of injured passengers and the extent of their injuries have not yet been released to the public.
The boat’s captain has been identified as 28-year-old Edward Hillkewicz of Mastic Beach, NY. Police arrested Hillkewicz at the scene, and he is now facing multiple serious charges, including boating while intoxicated (BWI), vehicular assault, and reckless operation of a vessel. Additionally, he received several summonses under the New York State Navigation Law.
According to law enforcement sources, alcohol was a significant factor in the crash. Witnesses near the beach reported hearing a loud impact followed by cries for help. Several bystanders rushed to the scene, offering assistance until emergency personnel arrived. The scene remained active for hours as police secured the area and began their investigation.
Hillkewicz is expected to be arraigned on Monday, where he will face a judge to answer to the charges. If convicted, he could face substantial penalties, including jail time, fines, and the loss of boating privileges. The charges reflect the gravity of the incident and underscore the dangers of operating a vessel while under the influence of alcohol.
“This could have ended much worse,” said one emergency responder on the scene. “Boating under the influence is not only illegal—it’s incredibly dangerous. We’re fortunate that lives weren’t lost.”
Local residents and beachgoers expressed shock and concern over the crash, particularly given the popularity of the beach during the summer season. Meschutt Beach County Park is a well-frequented destination, especially on weekends, drawing families, boaters, and tourists to its scenic shoreline.
The crash has raised broader concerns about boating safety in the area, especially with the busy summer season approaching. The Suffolk County Marine Bureau and other local law enforcement agencies have routinely increased patrols and launched public awareness campaigns during peak boating months to remind operators of the risks and responsibilities of navigating Long Island’s waterways.
The Southampton Town Police Detective Squad continues to investigate the incident, gathering evidence and witness statements to determine the full sequence of events that led to the crash. Investigators are expected to examine whether speed, weather conditions, or mechanical issues may have played any secondary role in the accident.
As the community awaits further updates on the condition of the injured passengers, the incident serves as a sobering reminder of the need for vigilance and responsibility on the water. Authorities are urging boaters to never operate a vessel while impaired and to always prioritize safety for everyone onboard.
More information is expected to be released following Hillkewicz’s court appearance and as the investigation unfolds.
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