Possible Incorrect GPS Coordinates Among Factors Being Probed In Saugatuck River Drowning: Cops

WESTPORT, CT — While no official determination has been made, Westport police are considering the possibility that among the factors that could have contributed to the deadly Feb. 25 crash into the Saugatuck River could have been incorrect coordinates from a GPS unit, according to a police official.

In an email statement to Patch, Lt. David Farrell said that the investigation into the crash, which occurred on a rainy Saturday night, is continuing and that the department has not confirmed its cause.

Richard Lamendola, 76, of Syosset, NY, died after the vehicle he was operating drove into the water from the state boat ramp on Elaine Road. His wife, Stephanie Lamendola, survived the crash and was rescued from the water.

"No new information at this point," wrote Farrell. "We are looking into all possibilities as to what caused the accident. Possibilities are that it was dark, raining, they are from out state and were possibly lost….things like that. We are also looking into the GPS history. None of these are confirmed as the cause, but they are factors the Detectives are looking into."

Photo: Saugatuck River Boat Launch. Photo credit: CT.gov