A Memorial Day boating trip turned tragic when a vessel exploded near Fort Lauderdale’s New River Triangle around 5:45 p.m. Monday, sending 13 people into the water. The explosion, which occurred near a sandbar by Southeast 9th Street, resulted in 11 injuries, including two children.
According to Fort Lauderdale Fire Rescue, several victims sustained significant burns. Ten of the injured were transported to Jackson Memorial Hospital, including eight adults in good condition and two children in fair condition. One adult required intubation.
Surveillance footage captured the dramatic moment the fireball erupted, flinging passengers overboard. Witnesses at the scene, including Bret Triano and Marisa Toomesn, rushed in to rescue victims. One badly burned man repeatedly cried for water as he awaited help.
Antonio Rivero, a passenger on the boat, said the explosion likely occurred during refueling. “Must have been a gas leak and a spark,” he said. His wife and children remained hospitalized Monday night, though he said they were stable.
The U.S. Coast Guard, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, and Broward Sheriff’s Office all assisted in the rescue and investigation. A dog onboard was safely recovered and uninjured.
Authorities are still investigating the exact cause of the explosion.
