A devastating boat explosion off the coast of Miami has left at least 15 people hospitalized with severe burns, including two children, as authorities declared a level two mass casualty event. The incident occurred on Biscayne Bay near the popular Haulover Sandbar, a known tourist hotspot in Florida.
Eyewitness Accounts and Rescue Efforts
Witnesses described a harrowing scene as the blast threw several individuals into the water before the vessel became engulfed in flames. Patrick Lee, a seasoned boat captain with over 50 years of experience, was nearby and saw three people thrown from the boat. He noted that the fire spread rapidly due to high-octane gasoline, causing severe burns to many on board.
First responders scrambled more than two dozen rescue units to the scene, with firefighter lifeboats rescuing those thrown into the water. The injured were rushed to nearby fuel docks and then transported to trauma centers, including Jackson Memorial Hospital's Ryder Trauma Centre and Burn Centre. Some victims were airlifted to hospital for emergency care.
Injuries and Medical Response
Among the injured, one child is being treated for burns covering 18% of his body, while an adult has burns over 30% of his skin. The Miami Herald reported that dispatch audio revealed initial confusion among rescuers, with a firefighter stating, "They keep coming... we just aren't sure right now," as the number of casualties became apparent.
Possible Cause of the Explosion
The boat, identified as a Press Cruiser 400 Express cabin cruiser named Nauti Nabors from Texas, exploded under circumstances that are under investigation. Captain Lee theorized that the explosion was likely caused by trapped gas fumes from exhaust fans that were not turned on before ignition. He emphasized that such accidents are preventable and often result from a lack of education about boat safety.
A passenger named Leo, who was unharmed, also attributed the blast to a gas leak, calling it "the worst experience of my life." Dispatch logs indicate that fire crews suspected the explosion originated from the boat's fuel tank.
Official Statement and Safety Reminder
Miami fire and rescue officials have issued a statement urging the public to prioritize safety while on the water. They recommend ensuring vessels are equipped with working fire extinguishers and required safety equipment, performing thorough safety checks before departure, and taking precautions to prevent emergencies. The captain of the boat reportedly walked away from the incident unharmed.
The explosion and subsequent fire are now under official investigation by authorities, who are working to determine the exact cause of the tragedy.
