Over the Memorial Day weekend, a man from New Jersey lost his life, while another fights for survival in critical condition.
According to state police reports, a catastrophic collision occurred between two jet skis on the Hudson River. Charles Sanchez, a 48-year-old resident of Belleville, was a passenger on a 2017 Yamaha Jet Ski, and the collision occurred near Newburgh at 2:50 pm on Saturday, May 27. The impact of the crash sent both Sanchez and the driver, David Torres, a 49-year-old Lodi resident, hurtling into the water, as stated in a police press release.
Fortunately, the accident was witnessed by boaters at a nearby marina, who swiftly came to the aid of the injured men. They heroically rescued Sanchez and Torres, transporting them to St. Luke’s Hospital in Newburgh for medical attention. Upon their arrival, medical professionals pronounced Sanchez dead, while Torres was listed in critical condition, fighting for his life.
Authorities identified the operator of the second jet ski as Jorge Arribasplata, a 48-year-old from Saddlebrook, New Jersey. However, the identity of his passenger has not been disclosed by the police. Notably, the authorities confirmed that both drivers involved in the collision were sober at the time of the accident, ruling out alcohol as a contributing factor.
As the investigation into this devastating incident continues, authorities are working to gather all necessary information in order to piece together the events leading up to the tragic collision.
