Boat Crash at Logan Airport Pier Claims Life of 24-Year-Old
A small twin-engine boat crashed into a pier extending from Logan International Airport in Boston Harbor late on May 13, 2026, leaving one dead and three injured.
Elizabeth Dankert, 24, a recent Union College graduate from Andover, was pronounced dead after being taken to Massachusetts General Hospital. Two of her friends sustained serious injuries. Authorities confirmed that the boat was unauthorizedly operated by Lawrence Shieh, 40, who faces charges including involuntary manslaughter.
According to Suffolk County District Attorney Kevin Hayden, Shieh's blood alcohol level was more than twice the legal limit at the time of the crash. Video evidence showed him being inattentive and dancing moments before the vessel collided with the pier around 11:30 p.m. Witnesses reported that the impact threw the occupants onto the rocky shore.
Boston EMS responded to the scene, rescuing all four individuals amid challenging conditions, including darkness and slippery rocks. All were transported to the hospital.
Shieh is scheduled for arraignment on Wednesday in Suffolk Superior Court. The Freedom Boat Club, which owned the vessel, stated that Shieh's membership has been terminated, and he was not authorized to operate the boat after dark.
Dankert's family expressed relief at the charges, emphasizing their focus on honoring her memory. The university community at Union College mourns her loss, remembering her as an exceptional student-athlete.
Massachusetts State Police continue to investigate the incident.