Police Confirm Death Of Mary McKee
[Updated] The police have now confirmed the death of 62-year-old New Zealand visitor Mary Elizabeth McKee following the boat collision late last night in Hamilton Harbour.
Her 69-year-old husband, also from New Zealand, and a 26-year-old male UK visitor both received serious injuries and are currently in the ICU.
A police spokesperson said, “The Bermuda Police Service can confirm that around 10:40pm Thursday 1st June 2017 a 26-year-old local male resident was driving a 17 ft. centre console vessel from Front Street Ferry Terminal towards White’s Island.
“The boat collided with a 9 ft. Zodiac inflatable carrying three visitors to our island who were thrown overboard.
“The collision was witnessed by passengers of another small boat nearby and they were able to render immediate assistance.
“The occupants of the Zodiac all received injuries. Tragically, 62-year-old New Zealand visitor Mary Elizabeth McKee died from the injuries she sustained.
“The Bermuda Police Service extends sincere condolences to the family and friends of the deceased.
“Her 69-year-old husband also from New Zealand and the operator of the Zodiac, a 26-year-old male UK visitor, both received serious injuries and are currently receiving treatment in the King Edward VII Memorial Hospital’s Intensive Care Unit.
“As a result of the initial investigation at the scene, marine police arrested the local man on suspicion of impaired operation of a watercraft.
“He complied with a demand for breath samples and passed the test. However, he remains in custody pending further enquiries.
“A forensic pathologist will be arriving on island in due course to assist with the investigation.
“Detectives are actively investigating this fatal marine incident and renew the appeal for witnesses or any persons with information to contact the Senior Investigative Officer Acting Detective Chief Inspector Dave Greenidge on 247-1744 or the independent and confidential Crime Stoppers hotline 800-8477.”
Update 8:51pm: Shadow Minister of Transport Wayne Furbert said, “Like many of our fellow Bermudians, we awoke to hear news that you never want to hear; the loss a of life. We extend our condolences to the family and loved ones of the victim and our prayers and well wishes go out to those who were injured in this marine accident.
As the summer months continue, we encourage everyone to be cautious on the water, considerate of those boating or swimming around your vessel and to ensure that all safety measures are taken.”
