Sir Peter's mother says defending the crew was typical

Sir Peter Blake's mother said his actions in attempting to defend his crew moments before his own death were typical of his character.

Family members were told just after 8 pm yesterday of his death aboard the boat Seamaster on the Amazon River.

Sir Peter was shot dead by bandits who boarded the boat. He had been below deck and had rushed to defend his crew who were being held at gunpoint.

Officials at Macapa, the largest town near where Seamaster was anchored, this morning suggested Sir Peter had shot at the bandits with a rifle, possibly injuring one before being shot twice and killed.

- NZPA

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