CAPE MAY, N.J. (AP) - The Coast Guard says a New Jersey man initially listed as missing and presumed dead in the March 24 sinking of a scallop boat did not board the vessel and is alive. A man who replaced him on the crew is now officially listed among the victims.
Coast Guard Petty Officer Christopher McLaughlin confirmed the mixup Friday.
McLaughlin said William Torres of Wildwood never boarded the Lady Mary, but 23-year-old Jorge Ramos of Cape May did.
McLaughlin said Ramos was carrying Torres’ identification, and the boat owner thought he was Torres. The Coast Guard has been trying unsuccessfully to find Torres.
A Philadelphia maritime attorney representing the Ramos family alerted authorities to the discrepancy.
Six crewmen died when the boat sank off Cape May; one survived.
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Information from: The Press of Atlantic City, https://www.pressofatlanticcity.com
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