Fiery Explosion Engulfs Three Yachts on Miami River

A massive explosion rocked the Miami River early Friday, igniting three yachts in a dramatic fire captured on video. The blaze erupted around 3:30 a.m. near Northwest North River Drive, sending thick smoke billowing into the sky, visible from Miami International Airport.

Authorities are treating the incident as arson. Miami-Dade Fire Rescue deployed over 30 units to battle the flames by land and water, using foam to contain the fire. The vessels included two 60-foot yachts and one 90-foot yacht. Within hours, one boat had sunk, another was nearly submerged, and the third was left gutted by fire.

Witnesses described the explosion as powerful enough to shake nearby buildings. Hotel guest Amanda Cummings said, “The whole hotel vibrated.” Jose Rojas, who lives on the river, recalled waking up in fear.

One boat owner, seeing video of the destruction, was visibly shaken. Another, who owned two of the vessels, suspected the fire was intentional but couldn’t identify a suspect.

Authorities managed to control the fire by 6:30 a.m. Firefighters also placed an oil boom in the water to prevent fuel contamination from the sunken yacht.

No injuries were reported, but the cause and suspects remain unknown as arson investigators continue their probe.