DA launches criminal investigation into Cape Cod boat crash that killed 17-year-old

A fatal boat crash on Cape Cod is now under investigation.

Cape & Islands District Attorney Robert J. Galibois announced today that his office is conducting an investigation of the boat crash into a jetty in Sesuit Harbor in Dennis, Ma on July 21, 2023, at approximately 9:00 p.m. resulting in a fatality of a 17-year-old young woman.

Several law enforcement agencies are involved with the District Attorney’s Office regarding the investigation including Dennis Police Department, Massachusetts State Police Detectives assigned to the Cape and Islands District Attorney’s Office, Massachusetts Environmental Police, Massachusetts State Police Marine Unit, Massachusetts State Police Dive Team, and the Barnstable County Regional Dive Team.

Sadie Mauro was a senior at Dover-Sherborn High School according to school officials. “Sadie’s smile could light up a room, she had a heart of gold and the sweetest spirit. She had such a strong sense of self and had a love for adventure and anything outdoors. A hardworking student and great athlete, Sadie was genuine and effortlessly kind.”

Sadie had participated in two state championships in lacrosse and was headed to play the sport in college.

Mauro was recovered, deceased, from the water by the USCG at approximately 11:30 p.m.

Six people, including Mauro, were on the boat. The recovery of Mauro from the water was made by the regional dive team with assistance from Dennis Fire-Rescue; and at least one other boat passenger, a teenage male, was transported to Cape Cod Hospital with a head laceration.

A fund has been created in Mauro’s memory “so that other kids may get to experience the joy and camaraderie of the game that she loved so much.”

“Sadie Mauro was a kind and loving young woman, and a caring teammate who loved the game of lacrosse. As put by her Mass Elite Directors Kara Connerty and Lisa Parsons, “Sadie arrived to every field with a smile. She brought out the best in all of her teammates and brought a positive energy wherever she went. Sadie’s unwavering support, her selflessness and dedication to uplifting others will continue to inspire her coaches and teammates, both on and off the field.”

The name of the boat operator has not been released.

Due to the ongoing nature of the investigation, the Cape & Islands District Attorney’s Office did not make any further comment.