4 dead in boating accident off Dinner Key Marina

Fourth of July accident involved 3 boats, also injured 7

MIAMI – Miami Fire Rescue says it responded to a report of a fatal Fourth of July boat collision off Dinner Key Marina around 11 p.m. Friday night, where four people died.

A total of nine people were transported to hospitals. Two victims were flown to Kendall Regional Medical Center, three were taken to Mercy Hospital and four were driven to Jackson Trauma. 

Jorge Pino with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission says that of the four people transported to Jackson Ryder Trauma, two later died, a man and a woman.

On Saturday morning, authorities called off a search for a 20-year-old woman and a 21-year-old man after divers discovered their bodies.

FWC told WPLG-TV that three boats crashed in the water. 

Sea Tow, which was called to help, estimates the crash happened about a mile and a half away from the marina.

Miami Fire Rescue says three people were discovered in the water and at least two were unresponsive. Rescuers say additional victims were located as the investigation continued.

Investigators have not released the names of the victims. They are still trying to figure out who was on each boat and how many people were involved. 

Two children ages 3 and 5 were on board when the boats crashed. They were not hurt and have been reunited with their grandparents. 

One boat was towed to Dinner Key Marina with a giant hole in the side and a second was being looked at by FWC but showed no signs of damage.


About the Authors:

Andrew Perez is a South Florida native who joined the Local 10 News team in May 2014.

Liane Morejon is an Emmy-winning reporter who joined the Local 10 News family in January 2010. Born and raised in Coral Gables, Liane has a unique perspective on covering news in her own backyard.