Two kayakers found dead following search in Shinnecock Bay
Authorities say the two men boarded a single-occupant double kayak near the Old South Ponquogue pier around 8 p.m. on Tuesday.
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Two men were found dead early Wednesday morning after disappearing during a nighttime kayaking trip on Shinnecock Bay, according to Southampton Town police.
Authorities say the pair set out on a two-person kayak around 8 p.m. Tuesday. When they did not return, a search effort began. Their bodies were discovered roughly eight hours later, around 4 a.m., near the Ponquogue Bridge in Hampton Bays.
The victims have been identified as 25‑year‑old Daniel Villa of Southampton and 43‑year‑old Juan Carlos Penaranda of Quogue.
The circumstances surrounding why the men were kayaking at night remain unclear. But those familiar with the area say Shinnecock Bay can quickly become hazardous, especially in windy conditions.
“When it’s very windy like it is outside, it’s very rough,” said Deirdre Hanrahan, owner of Lighthouse Seafood. “The gusts of wind can be very strong.”
Southampton Town Emergency Manager Ryan Murphy noted that even experienced swimmers can be at risk in the bay’s cold spring waters. He emphasized that conditions can shift rapidly and that safety precautions are essential.
“Even people that are skilled swimmers, seasoned maritime community members — being in that cold water can be dangerous,” Murphy said. He urged boaters to always carry the proper number of life vests and safety equipment.
Southampton Town police are asking anyone with information about the incident to contact their department.
