Retired Hospital Worker, 69, and Fisherman Husband, 77, Found Dead After Boat Capsized on New Year’s Day

A longtime couple from Massachusetts died after their boat capsized off the coast of Martha’s Vineyard on New Year’s Day, authorities said.

According to a press release from the Cape and Islands District Attorney’s Office, shortly after 11 a.m. on Thursday, Jan. 1, a 911 call was placed requesting emergency assistance for two people reported to have been on board a vessel that overturned.

The district attorney’s office said multiple agencies, including the U.S. Coast Guard, responded quickly to the scene, located about half a mile off the coast of Edgartown.

First responders found Edgartown residents Patricia Bergeron, 69, and Roy Scheffer, 77, in the water near the overturned boat. The couple was married, according to The Martha’s Vineyard Times.

Because both individuals were unresponsive and not breathing, they were transported to Martha’s Vineyard Hospital, where extensive lifesaving efforts were attempted. They were later pronounced dead at the hospital.

Investigators determined that a significant weather system moved rapidly through the area shortly before the 911 call. The system brought high winds and snow and sleet, along with a sudden deterioration in sea conditions, producing swells of up to six feet and winds reaching 20 knots.

Authorities said the boat had been secured overnight, but investigators later observed that the propeller was entangled in a polypropylene-style line on the day of the incident.

Based on the findings so far, officials said the investigation remains open but appears to be a tragic accident with no signs of foul play.

“Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences are with the families and loved ones during this difficult time,” the Cape and Islands District Attorney’s Office said in a statement. “Martha’s Vineyard has lost two pillars of their community, and their absence will be deeply felt.”

The Martha’s Vineyard Times reported that Scheffer was an avid fisherman, while Bergeron dedicated more than 40 years of service to Martha’s Vineyard Hospital. According to Boston.com, she worked as an emergency room coordinator.

In a statement, the hospital said it was “heartbroken” by the loss of a longtime and deeply valued member of its community following the tragic accident.

“Please join us in holding their loved ones — and all who are grieving — in your hearts,” the statement continued. “Out of respect for the family’s privacy, we are not sharing additional details at this time.”