Multi-State Pursuit Ends in Fatal Newport Shootout After Luxury Sailboat Stolen from NJ Marina
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Jersey City NJ, What began as the theft of a rare luxury sailboat from a Hudson County, New Jersey marina ended in a deadly shootout nearly 200 miles away in New England.
The suspect, identified as 27-year-old Brendan Norris, allegedly stole a 40-foot sailboat from Liberty Harbor Marina in Jersey City. Security footage captured clear images of Norris lingering on the vessel for over an hour and a half before departing.
Discovery in Newport Harbor
Days after the theft, a vigilant harbormaster spotted a vessel matching the stolen boat’s description anchored in Newport, Rhode Island—a famed coastal community often referred to as the sailboat capital of the country.
When law enforcement officers approached the vessel around 9:00 a.m., Norris fled below deck, armed himself with a handgun, and opened fire on approaching officers.
“The party armed himself with a firearm and shots were fired,” confirmed Newport Police Chief Ryan Duffy.
Officers returned fire, fatally striking Norris. A veteran police officer sustained a gunshot wound to a lower extremity during the exchange and was transported to a local hospital, where he is recovering.
Rare Vessel Stands Out
The boat’s owner, Jim Bonomo, noted that the stolen vessel was uniquely recognizable, making it a poor choice for a quiet getaway.
The boat is a rare 1968 Hinckley Bermuda 40, one of approximately 200 ever built. Bonomo, who spent ten years restoring the classic vessel, expressed relief that the boat was recovered intact, though it currently remains in police custody as evidence.
Ongoing Investigation
Authorities have not established a motive for the theft or why Norris sailed directly to Newport. Online professional profiles list Norris as an experienced deckhand with extensive maritime familiarity.
The Rhode Island State Police and the Rhode Island Attorney General’s Office have launched a joint investigation into the officer-involved shooting, following standard protocol.
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