The operator of a boat that capsized in New York’s harbour, killing a mother and her infant daughter, is facing criminal charges and authorities are investigating whether the vessel was an illegal charter. The 22-foot Bayliner speedboat overturned at about 10:25pm (local time) on Saturday near Liberty Island, home to the Statue of Liberty, the US Coast Guard said. According to the US Coast Guard, they were in stable condition. “We are deeply saddened by the tragic loss of life last night, and our thoughts are with the victims’ family and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time,” Captain Doreen McCarthy, from the US Coast Guard, said. An illegal charter is any passenger-for-hire vessel operation that lacks US Coast Guard credentials, safety equipment and inspection certificates.