Former Portuguese American Club president among the deceased after boat capsizes off Massachusetts coast

Cape & Islands District Attorney Robert Galibois announced today that on Thursday, shortly after 11:00 a.m., a 911 call was made requesting emergency response for two people who were reported to have been on board a boat that had capsized. Edgartown, Oak Bluffs, and Tisbury Fire/Rescue personnel, Edgartown Harbormaster and Shellfish department personnel, and the U.S. Coast Guard responded quickly to a location approximately 1/2 mile off the coast of Edgartown. 

Upon arrival, first responders observed two individuals, identified as 69-year-old Patricia Bergeron of Edgartown, MA and 77 -year-old Roy Scheffer of Edgartown, MA, in the water in the proximity of the overturned vessel. Both Bergeron and Scheffer were unresponsive and not breathing. Both individuals were transported to Martha’s Vineyard Hospital where extensive lifesaving efforts were performed. Bergeron and Scheffer were pronounced deceased at the hospital. 

Through further investigation by the State Police Detective Unit assigned to the Cape & Islands District Attorney’s Office, it was learned that prior to the 911 call, a significant weather system suddenly came through Martha’s Vineyard that produced high winds and snow/sleet throughout the area. Reported abrupt worsening sea conditions also occurred at this time, which created sea swells of 6 feet and 20 knot winds.

The boat was secured for the overnight and today investigators returned wherein they observed that the propeller was entangled by a polypropylene style line.

Based on this initial information available, the incident appears to be a horrible accident with no signs of foul play. The investigation remains open. 

Galibois expressed his condolences to those who knew the couple.

“Our thoughts and heartful condolences are with the families and loved ones during this difficult time. Martha’s Vineyard has lost two pillars of their community which will be deeply felt.”

Bergeron was known for her commitment to the Portuguese American community and as the former president of the Portuguese American Club.

Scheffer was a well-known boat captain and fisherman.