Judge Dismisses Lawsuit in New York Boating Tragedy

A federal judge has dismissed liability claims against the company that modified a tour boat that capsized on Lake George in 2005, killing 20 passengers.

U.S. District Judge Thomas McAvoy says there’s no evidence available about an old canvas and metal canopy once fitted on the Ethan Allen, so there’s no way to determine a replacement wooden canopy installed by Scarano Boat Building made the vessel unstable.

The boat had a capacity of 40 people and was used for tours on the Adirondack lake. The tragedy drew international attention.

Tour boat owner James Quirk settled claims last year. A separate suit pending against New York state faults its safety inspections.

McAvoy issued his ruling Monday.