San Diego Man Arrested for Boating Under the Influence

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The USS Midway Museum, a significant attraction in San Diego, stands proudly without damage following a recent boating incident.

News Summary

A San Diego man was arrested for boating under the influence after his vessel collided with the USS Midway Museum. Frank D’Anna, the operator of the Offshore Lifestyle boat, fled with others aboard but was found shortly after. Fortunately, no injuries were reported. Authorities are investigating the collision, which has been estimated to potentially cause damages of up to $100,000, though the USS Midway sustained no significant harm. D’Anna faces multiple charges, including hit and run and operating a vessel with a high blood alcohol concentration.

San Diego Man Arrested for Boating Under the Influence Following Collision with USS Midway Museum

A 40-year-old man named Frank D’Anna was arrested for boating under the influence (BUI) after his 65-foot vessel collided with the USS Midway Museum in downtown San Diego on Friday. The incident occurred around 11:54 a.m. and involved D’Anna operating the boat, known as Offshore Lifestyle, when it struck the port side hull of the historic museum ship.

Following the crash, D’Anna and the seven other individuals on board fled the scene in the Offshore Lifestyle. However, authorities located the vessel near the Coronado Ferry Landing in San Diego Bay shortly after. All occupants of the Offshore Lifestyle were contacted by officers, and D’Anna was identified as the operator of the boat at the time of the accident.

Fortunately, no injuries were reported for anyone aboard either the Offshore Lifestyle or the USS Midway. Preliminary assessments indicated that there was no significant damage to the USS Midway’s hull, which remained intact following the collision, allowing the museum to operate without any disruptions.

As a result of the incident, Frank D’Anna was booked into county jail on multiple charges including boating under the influence, hit and run, and operating a vessel with a blood alcohol concentration over .08. The Offshore Lifestyle was impounded as per standard protocol following the incident.

Investigation and Damage Assessment

The incident remains under investigation, with authorities reviewing the circumstances leading to the collision. Reports regarding the extent of damage caused by the crash have varied, with some estimates citing potential costs of up to $100,000. However, official assessments have indicated no substantial harm to the legendary ship.

Background on USS Midway Museum and Boating Under the Influence

The USS Midway Museum, which serves as a significant attraction situated at the downtown waterfront, was originally a naval aircraft carrier that operated for nearly five decades. The ship was decommissioned in 1992 and transformed into a museum that opened to the public in 2004. As a maritime museum, it attracts millions of visitors each year, providing them with a glimpse into naval history and the operations aboard aircraft carriers.

Boating under the influence is a pressing issue on the waterways, contributing to a number of accidents each year. According to a 2020 report by the Coast Guard, there were 296 boating accidents attributed to alcohol use, highlighting the dangers of impaired operation on the water. Authorities continually emphasize the importance of safety and responsibility when operating vessels to prevent future incidents and promote safer recreational activities.

This incident showcases the ongoing challenges related to safety on the water and the legal ramifications of operating a vessel while impaired. As investigations continue, it remains critical to raise awareness about responsible boating to protect individuals and preserve historical sites such as the USS Midway Museum.