Rocky Hill Man Arrested for Manslaughter in Connecticut River Boating Incident that Killed Wayne Hamler

Accident – Death – Obituary News : Rocky Hill Man Arrested for Manslaughter in Connecticut River Boating Incident

PORTLAND, Conn. — Editor’s Note: The video above is from July 2023.

A tragic boating incident that occurred on the Connecticut River in Portland earlier this summer has resulted in the arrest of a Rocky Hill man. Kerry Sheltra, 55, was apprehended by the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection’s Environmental Conservation (EnCon) Police on Friday. He is facing charges of manslaughter, assault, and risk of injury to a minor.

The arrest is in connection with an incident that took place on July 10. Fire responders were summoned to the Connecticut River just north of Petzolds Marina following reports of a serious boating accident. According to initial investigations, a 21-foot Yamaha jet boat lost control and crashed into the rocks along the shore, causing all occupants to be ejected.

The accident resulted in the injury and hospitalization of seven people, including two children aged 6 and 12. Tragically, two individuals sustained life-altering injuries, while an eighth person, identified as 60-year-old Wayne Hamler of Waterford, was pronounced dead at the scene.

EnCon Police have determined that Sheltra was operating the boat at the time of the crash. As a result, he has been charged with manslaughter for causing the death of Wayne Hamler and faces additional charges for assaulting the injured individuals and risking the safety of the minors onboard.

Following his arrest, Sheltra was released on a $50,000 bond. He is scheduled to appear in court on December 7 to face the charges brought against him.

This boating incident serves as a tragic reminder of the importance of safety and responsible operation of watercraft. Authorities continue to urge boaters to exercise caution, especially during the busy summer season when waterways are frequently crowded. It is crucial for boaters to adhere to speed limits, maintain proper control of their vessels, and prioritize the safety of all passengers on board.

As the case progresses, further details may emerge, shedding light on the circumstances surrounding the accident and the events leading up to it. The EnCon Police will continue their investigations to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the incident.

If you have any information related to this case or any other news tips, please reach out to us at newstips@fox61.com. We value your input and are committed to providing accurate and up-to-date reporting to our readers.

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