In a tragic incident off the coast of Miami Beach, a barge captain is under investigation following a collision with a sailboat that resulted in the deaths of two young girls. The US Coast Guard confirmed that a sobriety test, including a blood draw, was administered to the captain as part of their ongoing investigation. Capt. Frank Florio III emphasized the commitment to uncovering the truth behind the incident, stating, “We owe you answers, and we are going to find them.” While the results of the sobriety test remain unknown, the captain has not been taken into custody, and there have yet to be any indications prompting the sobriety test. Investigators are also questioning whether the barge’s crew held the proper licenses to be operating in Biscayne Bay at the time of the accident.
The sailboat involved was carrying five girls, accompanied by a teenage instructor as part of a summer camp program. Among the victims, seven-year-old Mila Yankelevich, the granddaughter of renowned Argentinian TV producer Cris Morena, was tragically killed in the collision. Yankelevich hailed from a prominent family in the entertainment industry, with her grandfather Gustavo and father Tomas also being noted producers, while her mother Sofia Reca is an actress. As a participant in the Miami Youth Sailing Foundation’s summer camp, Mila was loved and celebrated by her family, who had recently shared heartfelt birthday messages about her on social media, describing her as “special” and “brilliant.”
The incident occurred on a day when the camp group was engaged in sailing activities. Reports indicate that Mila was the youngest on the boat, which was struck just off the coast. Along with Yankelevich, a 13-year-old girl lost her life in the accident, while two other girls aged 8 and 11 sustained critical injuries. The 19-year-old sailing instructor and a 12-year-old girl managed to escape without injuries. Witnesses described a harrowing scene where one girl could be heard crying for help as the boat was overwhelmed by the barge, which severely damaged the vessel.
The community is mourning the profound loss and seeking answers about the circumstances that led to this tragic event. Families of the deceased are in contact with local authorities to navigate the emotional turmoil while also inquiring into the investigation’s developments. Journalistic sources indicate that Mila’s family is working closely with investigators, accessing necessary support and guidance during this exceedingly difficult time. The impact of such an incident reverberates through not just the families but the broader community, which is left grappling with questions about safety and accountability in waterway operations.
As investigations unfold, attention is turning to the operational protocols surrounding vessels in the area. Safety regulations and licensing for the crew of the barge are under scrutiny, with officials confirming that they will thoroughly review these aspects. The Coast Guard’s findings will play a critical role in understanding whether the maritime operation was conducted within legal and safety parameters. Meanwhile, local officials and community members are united in their calls for rigorous adherence to safety regulations to prevent such tragedies in the future.
Speculation surrounding the captain’s potential negligence is growing, along with calls for improved maritime regulations to protect lives on the water. As stories of Mila and her fellow campers circulate, the need for awareness and responsibility in boating operations gains significance. The tragic passage of a young life and the devastating impact on families serve as stark reminders of the vulnerabilities associated with recreational activities, underscoring the importance of stringent safety measures to avoid recurrence of such heartbreaking incidents. The community remains hopeful that the investigation will yield clarity and that protective measures will be implemented to enhance safety on the waterways of Florida.
