Charges Filed Against Florida Men in Wakeboarding Tragedy Involving 15-Year-Old Ballerina

Authorities have taken significant action by filing misdemeanor charges against two men from Florida linked to the tragic boating hit-and-run death of a 15-year-old ballerina. Ella Adler, an aspiring dancer and high school freshman, lost her life last year while wakeboarding with friends.

Details of the Incident

Carlos “Bill” Alonso, aged 79, faces charges for violating two U.S. Coast Guard navigational regulations. Meanwhile, 31-year-old Edmund Hartley is charged with breaching four separate Coast Guard rules. These charges were confirmed by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, known as FWC.

On a fateful day in May 2024, Ella Adler and a friend were enjoying their time wakeboarding at Nixon Beach in Key Biscayne, an area located just south of Miami. The girls, while being towed by a boat operated by Hartley and filled with over a dozen passengers, fell into the water at different moments, as reported by authorities.

Incident Aftermath and Investigation

In the water, the young ballerina was tragically struck by a second boat that then fled the scene. Witnesses recalled seeing a center console boat distinctively marked with blue paint and equipped with multiple outboard engines during the time of the incident. This description ultimately led investigators to Alonso’s Boston Whaler docked outside his residence in Coral Gables.

Alonso previously claimed he was unaware that he had struck anyone, according to statements made by his legal representation. His attorney, Lauren Krasnoff, expressed disbelief regarding the charges, stating, “What happened last year was an absolute tragedy, but it was not Bill’s fault. Bill is an experienced and cautious boater, and that is how he acted that day. FWC explicitly told us that they did not find Bill’s actions caused the accident. Because of that, we were very surprised to learn about the citations.”

About Ella Adler

Ella, who was enrolled at Ransom Everglades School in Coconut Grove, was not just a student but also an accomplished ballerina with the Miami City Ballet. She participated in more than 100 performances, showcasing her talent and dedication to the art.

Her family shared heartwarming memories, stating, “In her 15 years on this earth, she dazzled us with her light. She emanated love and joy.” Ella was not only a talented dancer but also the granddaughter of Holocaust survivors. Her family’s proud Jewish-American heritage played an integral role in her identity.

They elaborated on her strong Jewish roots, saying, “She loved Israel and came from a long line of Jewish leaders with a strong commitment to faith and tikkun olam. She wore her identity proudly and loudly, just like her parents.”

Community Reaction and Support

The attorney for Hartley has not responded to requests for comments regarding this tragic event. Meanwhile, the FWC issued heartfelt condolences to Ella Adler’s family and friends, stating, “The FWC extends its deepest sympathies to the family and friends of Ella Adler. Our thoughts remain with them as they continue to cope with this unimaginable loss.”

Both men charged in the case face multiple counts of careless operation of a vessel and have entered not guilty pleas. The community continues to grieve the loss of a promising young talent.

Calls for Improved Boating Safety

In light of this incident and the tragic loss of Ella, local officials emphasize the need for enhanced boating safety measures. Miami-Dade Mayor Daniella Levine Cava expressed her condolences on social media, saying, “My deepest condolences to the Adler family. Let’s honor her memory by exercising better boat safety, to ensure tragedies like this never happen again. May she rest in peace.”

The community is coming together to advocate for change, aiming to prevent similar tragedies in the future. With boating fatalities and accidents becoming an increasing concern, stakeholders are encouraged to consider stricter safety regulations and awareness campaigns.

Moving Forward

The charges brought against Alonso and Hartley shed light on critical issues surrounding boating safety and accountability. As the legal proceedings unfold, many will closely follow how the case impacts both the families involved and the broader community.

Ella Adler will be remembered not only for her artistic talent but also as a beacon of hope and inspiration for young performers everywhere. Her story serves as a reminder of the urgent need for safety and responsibility on the water.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.