Heroic Rescue by Teen Lifeguard
Jones Beach lifeguard Cary Epstein gives insights on the courageous act of 16-year-old Ryder Williams. In Santa Cruz, California, Williams confronted powerful surf and enormous waves to rescue a boy in distress, successfully bringing him to safety on the shore. Epstein commends Williams’ bravery, highlighting the impressive skill and dedication demonstrated during the rescue.
Boating Tragedy in New Jersey
A boat crash in Barnegat Bay left a 26-year-old dead and two others critically injured. Kevin Wells, 40, from Warren, NJ, faces felony charges including vehicular homicide and two counts of assault by vessel while intoxicated. On July 25, Wells’ 32-foot Boston Whaler collided with a channel marker, leading to a serious accident.
Following the crash, Wells directed the damaged vessel to a private residence in Toms River Township. Emergency personnel arrived shortly thereafter. Michael T. Bereheiko, 26, was rushed to a hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries. Two other passengers, Steven Pochick and Nicholas Cherasaro, suffered severe injuries.
The deceased, Bereheiko, was a Watchung Hills Regional High School graduate and a varsity football player. He pursued a career as a heavy diesel mechanic, showcasing his mechanical aptitude. Bereheiko cherished his time at the Jersey Shore.
A String of Similar Incidents
This crash is the third fatal boating accident involving alleged impairment in the area over the summer. Several locations have heightened bacteria levels, prompting advisories.
In another case, Jennifer L. Pearson was charged following an intoxicated boating incident on Memorial Day. Her vessel struck a channel marker, ejecting her son and his girlfriend. Pearson’s son died from injuries, while others sustained minor injuries.
Jennifer Pearson faces multiple charges, including second-degree death by vessel, operating under the influence, reckless operation, lacking a safety certificate, and neglecting a proper lookout.
A third incident involved Stephen Schneider, charged with reckless vessel homicide, after a crash killed his two grandchildren. Allegedly intoxicated, Schneider’s boat struck a channel marker in Berkeley Township. The tragic collision took the lives of 9-year-old Mya Bella Golabek and 7-year-old Sigmund Paul Golabek.
These incidents have heightened awareness of the risks and consequences associated with boating under influence. Authorities urge caution and adherence to safety regulations to prevent further tragedies.