Tragic Vessel Collision in Miami Claims Lives of Two Children

The U.S. Coast Guard is currently investigating a devastating vessel collision that occurred near Hibiscus Island in Miami, Florida, resulting in the deaths of two young children and leaving others injured. The incident, which took place on Monday, has sent shockwaves through the maritime community.

Among the casualties were a 7-year-old girl and a 13-year-old girl, who tragically lost their lives. Additionally, an 8-year-old girl and an 11-year-old girl are currently in critical condition, while a 12-year-old girl and a 19-year-old girl were rescued from the water following the collision.

The Coast Guard’s Sector Miami received a distress call from Miami-Dade Fire Rescue at approximately 11 a.m., reporting that six individuals had fallen into the water due to a collision between a barge and a sailboat near Star Island in Miami Beach. Responding agencies, including Miami Beach Fire Rescue, Miami-Dade Fire Rescue, City of Miami Fire Rescue, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, and Coast Guard Station Miami Beach, rushed to the scene to assist.

As the investigation unfolds, it has been revealed that the sailing vessel involved in the collision remains submerged beneath the barge. To ensure safety and facilitate the investigation, Sector Miami has established a 250-yard safety zone around the site of the incident.

Captain Frank Florio, Commander of Coast Guard Sector Miami, expressed his condolences, stating, “Our hearts go out to the families of those lost and everyone impacted by this tragedy. Incidents like this underscore the importance of learning from every loss and taking necessary steps to prevent similar accidents in the future. The Coast Guard is committed to conducting a thorough investigation to determine the causes of the collision and implement measures to enhance safety at sea.”