Physical Address
304 North Cardinal St.
Dorchester Center, MA 02124
The U.S. Coast Guard has confirmed that the captain of the tugboat involved in a tragic collision on Monday, which resulted in the loss of two young girls from a sailing camp, underwent alcohol testing. This measure forms part of the agency’s ongoing investigation into the incident.
One of the deceased has been identified as seven-year-old Mila Yankelevich, who is the granddaughter of Cris Morena, an acclaimed Argentinian television producer. The Argentine Consulate in Miami verified her identity with Fox News Digital.
In a statement to the media, the Argentine Consulate noted, “The Consulate General and Promotion Center of the Argentine Republic has been informed of the incident and remains fully available to assist the family members who reside within its jurisdiction.”
Mila’s family is deeply rooted in entertainment; her grandfather, Gustavo Yankelevich, and her father, Tomas Yankelevich, are both producers. Her mother, Sofia Reca, is an actress, according to reports from Argentinian media outlets.
The collision not only ended Mila’s life but also claimed the life of a second victim, a 13-year-old girl whose identity remains undisclosed. Both girls were transported to Jackson Memorial Hospital, where they were later pronounced dead. Two other girls, aged eight and eleven, sustain critical injuries. Additionally, a twelve-year-old girl, a nineteen-year-old, and a female instructor were also rescued from the water.
During a press conference on Tuesday, Capt. Frank Florio, commander of Coast Guard Sector Miami, stated that the young victims were wearing life vests at the time of the collision. This fact has raised questions about the circumstances surrounding the tragedy.
The alcohol testing on the tugboat captain follows standard protocols, particularly in accidents involving serious injuries or fatalities. Capt. Florio withheld the results of this test and related details regarding the captain’s statements to investigators while urging the community for patience as the investigation unfolds.
Addressing the grieving families, Florio expressed, “We owe you answers and we are committed to finding them.” These words underscore the urgency and seriousness of the inquiry.
Investigators are now also examining whether the crew aboard the tug and barge had the appropriate licensing to operate in the busy waters of Biscayne Bay. Capt. Florio emphasized the importance of ensuring that all maritime operations are compliant with safety regulations.
A witness to the harrowing event recounted, “The crane completely destroyed the boat. I heard a girl shouting for help beneath the crane before the boat sank.” Witness accounts such as this highlight the chaos and urgency experienced during the incident.
In light of the circumstances surrounding the accident, the investigation will encompass the Miami Yacht Club, the departure point for the girls’ sailing camp. The sailing program has been a staple in the community since its inception in 1927 and promotes uses of a secure area within Biscayne Bay.
Biscayne Bay is a highly trafficked waterway, accommodating commercial shipping, recreational boating, sailing camps, and related activities. The Miami Yacht Club has publicly stated that they are cooperating fully with law enforcement as the investigation continues.
Out of respect for those affected by the tragedy, the Miami Yacht Club announced the closure of its campus and all associated facilities until further notice. They conveyed a heartfelt message via social media stating, “The Miami Yacht Club is more than just a campus of organizations on the water – it’s a family – and today, we share in the deep grief of our extended sailing community family. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families, the sailors, and the dedicated instructors and volunteers who give so much to this program.”
This incident serves as a sobering reminder of the potential dangers associated with recreational boating activities, particularly in busy waterways. The ongoing investigation by the U.S. Coast Guard aims to ensure accountability and improve safety measures. As the community mourns the loss of young lives, awareness and preventive efforts are essential to avoid similar tragedies in the future.
