A man charged in a fatal 2022 boat crash on the Connecticut River has been offered a plea deal but has yet to decide whether to accept it, prolonging the wait for justice, victims’ families said.
Kerry Sheltra appeared in Middletown Superior Court on Thursday, where his attorney requested more time to consider the plea, the details of which remain undisclosed.
Sheltra faces several charges, including manslaughter and assault, stemming from a July 10, 2022, incident in Portland. Investigators say he lost control of a boat carrying eight people when a tow rope tangled around his legs, leaving the vessel unmanned. The boat subsequently crashed into a rocky shoreline, resulting in multiple injuries.
Among those injured was 60-year-old Wayne Hamler, who later died. Sheltra’s wife suffered a traumatic brain injury, and his son underwent a leg amputation.
Sheltra reportedly admitted to consuming alcohol before the crash. Officers noted signs of impairment in their arrest affidavit.
Family members of Hamler expressed frustration over the drawn-out legal proceedings. “My brother Wayne was a great person,” said his brother Paul Hamler Jr. “It’s been a long, drawn-out time.”
Judge Julia Dewey set a clear deadline for Sheltra to make a decision regarding the plea deal, stating it would no longer be available after October 14. His attorney did not comment after the court session.