Alcohol a factor in high-speed boat death

An investigation into the death of a man in an accident on Lough Derg last year has determined that his boat was travelling at high speed close to the shoreline and his judgement may have been impaired by alcohol.

The Marine Casualty Investigation Board issued its findings following the death of Pat Danaher, aged 44, a father of three originally from Limerick but living in Ogonnelloe, Co Clare. His body was found on Aug 3, 2012, a day after his boat was found floating partially submerged and overturned near Youghal Bay.

While Mr Danaher’s 7m Crownline speedboat was equipped with safety equipment including several personal flotation devices and buoyancy aids, the victim was not wearing one when his body was found.