State liquor officials to investigate after soldier falls from cruise, dies in Boston Harbor
September 10, 2018
BOSTON — State liquor officials will investigate whether alcohol laws were violated on a booze cruise where a 21-year-old soldier fell overboard and died in Boston Harbor.
The Alcoholic Beverage Control Commission said Monday that it will investigate. A spokeswoman wouldn’t provide details about the investigation, but the organization generally looks for violations, such as people being overserved.
The victim was identified as Aaron Dibella, 21, of Peabody. Dibella’s cousin tells WCVB he was in the Army and had a big heart.
Police said Dibella fell into the water from the Provincetown II off Peddocks Island near Hull shortly after 8:30 p.m. Saturday. A security guard from the cruise ship entered the water to try to rescue the victim, who was initially visible but then went underwater.
Police said Dibella was located hours later at a depth of nearly 45 feet, approximately 100 yards from the coordinates where he went overboard.
The company that owns the boat said Dibella had been “engaging in horseplay” before falling.
The Provincetown II is 194 feet long and holds up to 900 passengers. It is often used for large events.
The boat, operated by Bay State Cruises, left the Seaport World Trade Center dock Saturday evening. Sources told WCVB there were hundreds of tickets sold and many young adults on board.
Michael Glasfeld, the owner of the company, says it hasn’t had a liquor violation in more than 15 years and doesn’t believe “the investigation into this tragic event will result in one either.”