The two men who were found dead in the water New Year's morning near Water Bay at St. Thomas' east end were allegedly thrown into the water when the driver of the boat they were in lost control of the vessel.
A release Monday from Territorial Police Chief Jose Garcia said the driver of the boat, James Ferguson, said the steering wheel broke, causing him to lose control, and the two men were thrown out of the boat.
The two dead men, who are reportedly local residents, still have not been identified. Garcia gave no reason why.
Ferguson said by the time he regained control of the boat and went back to rescue his passengers, they were already under the water.
The release said both of the dead men had jagged marks on their legs and feet. One of the victims reportedly died at the scene. The other died at the Roy L. Schneider Hospital, according to Garcia.
Police are investigating the incident. Anyone with information is asked to call 774-4050 or 911.
