Two children dead after sailboat and barge collision near Star Island, officials say
At approximately 11:30 a.m., Coast Guard Sector Miami received a report from Miami-Dade Fire Rescue of a collision between a sailboat and a barge near Hibiscus Island.
Officials said six people, an adult female counselor and five children ranging in age from 8 to 12, entered the water. The sailboat sank following the impact.
Three victims were transported to Miami-Dade Marina and two were taken to Jackson Memorial Hospital, where they were later pronounced dead. One person remains unresponsive, according to the Coast Guard.
Florida Fish and Wildlife officials said their officers responded to the crash along with multiple agencies.
A collective dive and water rescue effort involved Miami Beach Fire Rescue, City of Miami Fire Rescue, Miami-Dade Fire Rescue and law enforcement from both cities.
One child and the adult counselor were evaluated at the scene but were not hospitalized.
FWC is leading the investigation, which remains ongoing.
No further details have been released.
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