Swansea man identified as victim in fatal Fall River boat incident on Taunton River

A local man has been identified as the victim in a fatal boat incident on Wednesday.

According to Det. Sergeant Moses Pereira at approximately 6:40 a.m., the Department received a report of two individuals in distress in the Taunton River.  The Harbormaster’s Assistant responded along with several Police, Fire and EMS units and the Massachusetts Environmental Police.

It would later be discovered that two brothers had gone fishing in the Taunton River, when their propeller got caught in a rope. While attempting to free the propeller, the vessel began taking on water. At some point, both men ended up in the water. One of the men was able to take hold of a flotation device, while 73-year-old Ronald Botelho of Swansea was unable to stay afloat. First responders were able to remove him from the water and he was subsequently transported to Saint Anne’s Hospital where he would unfortunately succumb to his injuries. 

Family members have asked to keep Ronald in your prayers. He is being remembered as an amazing man with a huge heart and a laugh and smile that would light up the room he was in.

The matter remains under investigation by the Major Crimes Division and the Massachusetts State Police Detective Unit.

After the rescue, Marine 1 was collecting debris and attempting to locate the boat.