A collision between a sailboat and barge claimed two lives near Hibiscus Island, Miami Beach late Monday morning. The US Coast Guard said two girls ages 7 and 13 died, while two other girls ages 8 and 11 remain in critical condition. Officials said a 12-year-old girl and a 19-year-old female were rescued.
The collision between the two vessels occurred about 11 a.m. when Miami-Dade fire rescue notified the Coast Guard about the crash. As a result of the incident, six people reportedly entered the water near Hibiscus Island.
Miami Beach Fire Rescue crews were first on scene, then later joined by Miami-Dade Fire rescue, City of Miami Fire Rescue, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) and Coast Guard Station Miami Beach.
Coast Guard officials said all six people were recovered, whilst two of the six were declared deceased upon arrival to Jackson Memorial Hospital.
Meanwhile, a Coast Guard small boat crew arrived on scene to provide a safety zone.
As it is reported, the sailing vessel currently remains submerged under the barge, with sector Miami maintaining a 250-yard safety zone.
“Our hearts are with the families of those lost and all who have been affected by this tragedy,” said Capt. Frank Florio, commander of Coast Guard sector Miami. “Incidents like this leave a lasting impact on our maritime community and reinforce the importance of learning from every loss. The Coast Guard will conduct a thorough investigation to determine the causal factors and identify steps to help prevent similar tragedies in the future.”
The investigation remains ongoing about the potential causes of the collision.
