Eleven individuals were hospitalized after a suspected boat explosion near the Haulover Sandbar in Miami on Saturday, Miami-Dade fire officials reported. The incident occurred around 12:45 p.m. Eastern Time, when emergency crews responded to the scene.
Miami-Dade Fire Rescue (MDFR) arrived alongside the U.S. Coast Guard and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission after receiving reports of an explosion on the boat. Battalion Chief Juan Arias stated that multiple patients exhibited various injuries, including burns and more severe trauma. All 11 were transported to a local hospital, though their conditions have not been disclosed.
Given the number of injured, MDFR escalated the response to a Level 2 Mass Casualty Incident to ensure sufficient resources and care at the scene. The exact cause of the possible explosion and fire remains under investigation, and officials have yet to definitively confirm an explosion occurred.
Eyewitness Patrick Lee, who operates a nearby boat charter, described seeing three people thrown from the vessel. Lee suggested the incident was caused when the boat’s operator failed to open hatches or turn on blowers before starting the engine, leading to a buildup of gasoline fumes. “The boat was surrounded in flames within minutes,” Lee said, noting the intensity of the fire due to the high-octane fuel.
The Miami Herald identified the boat involved as a 40-foot Press Cruiser 400 Express named Nauti Nabors, registered in Sherman, Texas. The vessel was reportedly a charter boat certified for recreational use, according to U.S. Coast Guard records and statements from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.
Following the incident, fire officials emphasized the importance of safety precautions when boating, especially during busy seasons. Chief Arias advised boaters to carry radios, life vests, and fire extinguishing equipment and to have an experienced captain on board to help prevent similar accidents.
Why it matters
This incident highlights risks associated with recreational boating, particularly the dangers of gasoline vapors igniting in enclosed engine compartments. It underscores the need for proper safety procedures, such as ventilating engine areas and carrying emergency equipment, to protect lives on the water.
Background
Haulover Sandbar, located in Biscayne Bay near Miami, is a popular spot for boaters and water recreation, especially during peak seasons. Mass casualty incidents involving boats are rare but can overwhelm local emergency services due to the cluster of injuries typical in such accidents.
Sources
This article is based on reporting and publicly available information from the following source:
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