Capsized Boat Victims Mourned as Investigation Continues

"We lost three beautiful kids," said the aunt of one of the victims

The family of one of the three children killed when a boat capsized off Long Island mourned Friday on what would have been the little girl's eighth birthday.

Victoria Gaines' mother posted a simple message on Facebook: "Your families hearts are aching for you."

And that ache is being felt by many who knew Victoria and the two other children who died in the tragedy.

 "She was always giggly, always happy,"  said neighbor Sean Harkins, who says he knew Victoria all her life. "She was great. A lovely girl."

 Harley Treanor, 11, David Aureliano, 12 and Victoria drowned after being trapped in the cabin of the 34-foot Silverton Yacht, called Candi Won, when it capsized.

No other serious injuries were reported by the other 24 passengers, who were out watching Fourth of July fireworks on the Long Island Sound.

Candi and Joan Treanor were on the boat when it capsized. They lost their niece and granddaughter Harley.

 "It really is devastating," Joan Treanor said. "We lost three beautiful kids."

Nassau County Police are still trying to determine if a large wave, severe weather or overcrowding caused the boat to flip over.

Investigators hope to have more clues when they pull the boat up from the bay, which may not be pulled up until Tuesday.

They are not ruling out criminal charges, although they say it's too early to tell.

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