Windsor, Conn. – A weekend collision on the Connecticut River involving two personal watercraft has turned into a somber recovery effort for the community. According to the Connecticut State Police, the incident occurred Sunday afternoon when two jet skis struck each other near the Windsor shoreline.
Details of the collision
EnCon Police reported that a passenger on one of the jet skis was thrown into the water when the vessels collided. The individual, later identified as 32‑year‑old Jose Nunez Quezada of New Haven, was not immediately located. Witnesses said Quezada was last seen wearing a black t‑shirt and dark‑colored swim trunks before he disappeared from view.
Search operation
State police, along with local rescue teams, launched an intensive search effort shortly after the crash was reported. Boats, divers, and aerial support combed the river in hopes of locating Quezada. The search continued through the evening, with officials urging anyone who might have seen the incident to come forward.
By 11 p.m. Sunday, after exhaustive efforts yielded no sign of the missing rider, the search was suspended. The decision was made in consultation with senior officers who assessed the safety of continued operations on the river.
Shift to recovery mission
Early Monday morning, the Connecticut State Police announced that the search had officially become a recovery mission. “Our priority now is to bring closure to Mr. Quezada’s family and the Windsor community,” a spokesperson said. The shift reflects the grim reality that the missing rider is presumed deceased, and resources will be redirected toward a careful, respectful recovery of his remains.
Community response
Local residents expressed concern and sympathy for Quezada’s family. “We’re a tight‑knit community here, and it’s heartbreaking to hear about a tragedy like this,” said a Windsor neighbor who asked to remain anonymous. The incident has also sparked conversations about water safety, especially as summer activities on the river increase.
State officials reminded the public that proper safety equipment, including life jackets, is essential for anyone operating personal watercraft. They also encouraged boaters to stay alert to changing river conditions and to maintain a safe distance from other vessels.
Next steps
The recovery effort will continue throughout the week, with divers conducting systematic sweeps of the riverbed. Authorities have asked anyone with additional information—such as video footage, photographs, or eyewitness accounts—to contact the Connecticut State Police at (860) 424‑2000.
While the community mourns, officials hope the incident will serve as a reminder of the importance of water safety and the need for vigilance on the river. The Windsor Police Department will provide updates as the recovery progresses.
Original reporting: NBC Connecticut — read the source article.
