Ferry disaster pilot ‘may have been asleep’

A STATEN ISLAND ferry pilot may have fallen asleep just before his ship slammed into a pier killing 10 people and injuring at least 42 others in New York harbour, police said yesterday.

Ferry disaster pilot ‘may have been asleep’

The pilot, identified as Richard Smith, ran away from the scene so quickly that he left behind his gear and his keys, then broke into his house where he slit his wrists and shot himself with a pellet gun.

Mr Smith was in critical condition after surgery at St Vincent's Hospital, the same place where 22 victims including at least one amputee were rushed after the crash.

Already a subscriber? Sign in

You have reached your article limit.

Unlimited access. Half the price.

Annual €120 €60

Best value

Monthly €10€5 / month

More in this section

Cookie Policy Privacy Policy Brand Safety FAQ Help Contact Us Terms and Conditions

© Examiner Echo Group Limited