A father killed after his high-performance powerboat slammed into a moored yacht is being remembered as a larger-than-life character who loved his children.
Locals heard the smash, which immediately sank the anchored yacht on the Parramatta River off Wybalena Rd in Hunters Hill, Sydney, about 7.40pm on Sunday.
Investigators believe Shane Florio, 46, was at the helm, with a 25-year-old woman onboard.
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Paramedics were called but Florio died from internal injuries in Royal North Shore Hospital.
The woman has been discharged from hospital.
Florio ran a successful demolition company, and his family have described him as a loving father-of-three and larger-than-life character.
His uncle Johnny Florio told 7NEWS.com.au he was the “life of the party” and always willing to help his friends.
“He definitely lived life to the fullest. We are all in shock and still can’t believe it’s true,” he said.
“We will miss you like crazy. Heaven has a new angel. Fly my brother.”
Shane Florio died from injuries sustained in a Sydney boat crash. Credit: 7NEWS Florio’s Brabus-model boat is capable of high speeds but police are still investigating how the crash happened.
“There’s extensive damage to the front of the vessel and the impact was so severe that it actually immediately sunk the vessel that was on the mooring,” Acting Inspector Ryan Spong said earlier on Monday.
“That indicates the collision was quite intense.”
Police said it was dark at the time of the crash, and there is no indication at this stage the driver of the boat was under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
Shane Florio’s boat was damaged and the vessel it struck sank on Sunday night. Credit: 7NEWS Locals heard the smash about 7.40pm on Sunday. Credit: 7NEWS The official boating season kicked off three days ago and police say multiple water-based incidents over the long weekend is concerning.
They have responded by stepping up spot-checks.
“If you’re out on the water, abstain from drugs and alcohol, wear a lifejacket, slow down and know your safety equipment,” Spong said.