Swansea man identified in fatal boating accident on Taunton River

FALL RIVER (WBSM) – The Bristol County District Attorney’s Office has identified the man who drowned in the Taunton River Wednesday as Ronald Botehlo, 73, of Swansea.

The incident occurred on the morning of June 19, when officers received an emergency call at around 6:40 a.m.

Botelho and his brother were reportedly fishing in the Taunton River when their propeller became caught in the rope.

While attempting to free the propeller, the ship began to take on water, causing both men to end up in the river.

One of the men managed to grab a flotation device, but prosecutors said Botelho was unable to stay afloat.

First responders rescued Botelho from the water and took him to Saint Anne’s Hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries.