Report faults Coast Guard actions that preceded deadly crash near San Diego boat parade

Report faults Coast Guard for fatal Calif crash

SAN DIEGO — A Coast Guard investigating officer has found no legal justification for a deadly collision last year involving a Coast Guard boat and a smaller vessel before a holiday parade in a San Diego bay.

Cmdr. J.R. Hamilton issued the report after reviewing evidence last week against three Coast Guard members charged in the December crash that killed 8-year-old Anthony DeWeese.

The collision occurred as boats were gathered for an annual Christmas boat parade. The Coast Guard boat was responding to a report of a grounded vessel when it rammed a pleasure boat.

The report says the Coast Guard should have known that driving the boat fast in a crowded harbor would be dangerous.

The report, cited Monday in the Los Angeles Times, was forwarded to Rear Adm. Joseph R. Castillo, who will decide whether to order a court martial.

Information from: Los Angeles Times, www.latimes.com