Eleven people were hospitalized Saturday afternoon following a suspected boat explosion at a marina near North Miami, Florida. Emergency crews responded around 12:50 p.m. to reports of an explosion on the water just west of Haulover Beach Marina, according to a Miami-Dade Fire Rescue (MDFR) spokesperson.
Mass Casualty Response
More than 25 units rushed to the scene, including Fireboat 21 and Ocean Rescue teams, with support from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and the U.S. Coast Guard. Upon arrival, first responders discovered multiple victims suffering from burns and other traumatic injuries. Due to the high number of patients, officials upgraded the incident to a Level 2 mass casualty incident, enabling the deployment of additional resources. All victims were transported to nearby hospitals for treatment.
Safety Reminders
Authorities used the event to stress the importance of boating safety during busy periods on the water. “Make sure your vessel is equipped with a working fire extinguisher and all required safety equipment,” the MDFR said in a statement. “Before departure, perform a thorough safety check to ensure your boat is in good working condition and free of potential hazards. Taking a few extra precautions can help prevent emergencies and keep everyone safe.”
The cause of the explosion remains under investigation by local and state authorities.
