Police arrest man after boat collision on River Thames

A 67-year-old man from Windsor has been arrested following a dangerous boating incident on the River Thames near Maidenhead on Sunday morning. Thames Valley Police report that the individual was driving a white and blue boat dangerously around 7:15 a.m., resulting in a collision with a rowing boat.

Olympic silver medalist Jack Beaumont intervened during the encounter, describing a “river rage” confrontation. Beaumont reported that the skipper acted in an “erratic” and “volatile” manner, allegedly shouting abuse and threatening rowers after the collision. Beaumont stated he felt “frightened” that the driver might intentionally ram him.

The suspect is being held on suspicion of criminal damage, threats to kill, common assault, a Public Order Act offence, and operating a watercraft in a manner that endangered individuals. Detective Inspector Laura Al-Owaied stated that the investigation is being treated as a priority, with increased police presence expected in the area to reassure local river users.