Kevin O’Leary passenger on boat involved in fatal Lake Joseph crash

An investigation is underway after a boat carrying celebrity Canadian businessman Kevin O’Leary was involved in a crash that left a man and a woman dead. Melissa Nakhavoly with what officials are saying about the incident.

By News Staff

Provincial police are investigating after a boat carrying Canadian businessman and former federal Conservative leadership candidate Kevin O’Leary was involved in a fatal crash on Lake Joseph over the weekend.

The OPP said a 64-year-old Florida man and a 48-year-old woman from Uxbridge died in the two-boat crash near Seguin Township on around 11:30 p.m. on Saturday. The Uxbridge woman was taken to hospital with critical injuries and died in hospital on Tuesday.

They have been identified as Gary Poltash, who was visiting a friend at the time of the crash, and Susanne Brito. Three other occupants of the boats suffered injuries, but have since been treated and released from hospital.

In a statement, O’Leary confirmed he was on the boat and said he was fully cooperating with authorities.

He also said the other boat did not have its navigation lights on and then fled the scene.

“On late Saturday night, I was a passenger in a boat that was involved in a tragic collision with another watercraft that had no navigation lights on and then fled the scene. I am fully cooperating with law enforcement in their investigation,” he said.

“Out of respect for the victims’ families and to fully support the ongoing investigation I feel it is inappropriate to make further comments at this time. My heartfelt prayers and condolences to the victims, the families and those affected by this loss.”

OPP tell CityNews they are putting multiple resources into the investigation of the crash, including forensic services and the marine collision unit.

Insp. Martin Graham says both of the vessels involved were pleasures crafts and the two victims were on the same boat.

The pair was on a 13-person boat that was out for an evening cruise at the time of the crash. Graham said the other boat was smaller and the operators were on the way back to their residence.

He added one of the boats was “definitely moving” at the time of the crash, but it has not been determined whether both vessels were in motion when the crash occurred.

Graham confirms they are investigating whether or not alcohol played a role in the crash, but that question has formed part of the investigation.

So far, no charges have been laid.

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