Arrest made after boat crash and ‘assault’ on River Thames

A man has been arrested after allegedly verbally abusing rowers on the River Thames before his boat hit a rowing boat and its occupant, police say.

Thames Valley Police said the man was driving a white and blue boat dangerously near Maidenhead Rowing Club at around 7.15am on Sunday when the collision took place.

He allegedly verbally abused a second rower who repeatedly tried to get away, the force said.

A 67-year-old man from Windsor was arrested on suspicion of criminal damage, threats to kill, a Public Order Act offence, common assault, and using a watercraft in a manner that endangered a structure or individual.

Detective Inspector Laura Al-Owaied said: “We are carrying out a thorough investigation into this incident, which understandably caused concern within the local community.

“We are treating this investigation as a priority and there will be an increased police presence in the area to provide reassurance to local residents and river users.

“I am appealing to anybody who was in the area between 7am and 7.30am on Sunday morning and may have witnessed this incident to please come forward.

“We are particularly keen to hear from anyone who may have CCTV, dashcam or mobile phone footage from the area during this time.