Former Union College soccer player Elizabeth "Lizzie" Dankert died after a recreational boat crashed into a pier near Boston's Logan International Airport, according to Massachusetts authorities. She was 24.
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The crash occurred around 11:30 p.m. Wednesday when a powerboat struck a pier near one of the airport's runways, Massachusetts State Police said.
Authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident, which has drawn additional attention after officials indicated the vessel may have been taken without authorization.
According to a spokesperson for Freedom Boat Club, the boat involved was allegedly accessed and operated after the club had closed for the evening.
"The vessel involved in the incident was taken without authorization and operated outside the knowledge and control of the Club," company spokesperson Lee Gordon said in a statement.
Dankert was among four people aboard the boat at the time of the crash. Emergency crews responded to the scene and worked in difficult nighttime conditions to reach those involved.
The boat's driver, identified as 40-year-old Lawrence Shieh, and two other passengers suffered injuries that were not considered life-threatening, according to local reports.
Dankert was remembered by Union College as an outstanding student-athlete who made a lasting impact on the school's athletic community.
"Lizzie was an exceptional student-athlete who had a tremendous impact during her four years at Union College," school spokesperson Phillip Wajda said. "Her passing is a profound loss for our campus community."
The Suffolk County District Attorney's Office continues to investigate the crash. No additional details were immediately released.
Dankert's death has prompted an outpouring of condolences from friends, former teammates and members of the Union College community.
