One Year Since Fatal Boat Crash in Old Saybrook
Old Saybrook, CT – Next weekend marks one year since three individuals lost their lives in a boat crash at the mouth of the Connecticut River.
Ryan Britagna, Christopher Hallahan, and Ian Duchemin were killed when a boat collided with the break wall on Labor Day 2022. According to authorities, the driver, Clayton Hackling, had a previous DUI charge and registered double the legal blood alcohol content the night of the crash.
In response, Britagna's mother, Jessica, advocated for legislation linking boating and driver's licenses. The law stipulates that a DUI in either context results in a suspension for both. “Passing this legislation will not bring my son back but it will ensure that his death was not in vain,” she stated during the bill hearing.
The bill has since passed and is now incorporated into boating instruction by Mark Vining at Boat Safe Connecticut, emphasizing the dangers of operating a boat under the influence.
Additionally, the nonprofit Light the Way is working on a project to install lights on the break wall to honor the victims. According to family members, the initiative is currently underway.
Hackling's case remains active in court, with his next appearance scheduled for September.