MIAMI — Authorities have provided a somber update on a fatal boating crash that occurred last week.
A third child has died as a result of the crash that happened around 11 a.m. Monday off Miami Beach’s Hibiscus Island in Biscayne Bay when a youth sailing camp boat and a barge collided in the water.
The sail boat was part of the Miami Yacht Club’s sailing camp and was carrying a 19-year-old instructor and five campers.
U.S. Coast Guard officials confirmed on Sunday that a 10-year-old who was initially brought to Jackson Memorial Hospital in critical condition has passed away.
Previously, the 10-year-old injured in the crash had been identified as Arielle Buchman, and her uncle, former Bal Harbour Mayor Gabriel Grossman, confirmed her passing on X.
The U.S. Coast Guard said she was surrounded by family members when she passed away.
Last week, loved ones grieved for 7-year-old Mila Yankelevich and 13-year-old Erin Ko Han, who also died in the crash.
A 7-year-old who was injured in the crash and was being treated at Jackson Memorial Hospital has since been released. She has been identified as Calena Areyan Gruber.
“Our hearts are broken for the families who suffered the most unthinkable tragedy in last week’s collision,” Calena’s parents, Karina Gruber Moreno and Enrique Areyan Viqueira, said in a statement Monday. “This is a deeply harrowing reminder of how suddenly and senselessly life can change. In an instant, what should have been a day of joy and connection on the water turned into a source of unimaginable grief. Our hearts will forever remain with the families involved in this most tragic incident.
“To clarify some conflicting reports, our daughter, Calena Areyan Gruber, has been released from Jackson Memorial Hospital and is not in critical condition. She is at home recovering from her injuries, surrounded by the love and support of her family. We are deeply moved and incredibly grateful for the outpouring of prayers and kindness we have received from the community. We now respectfully ask for privacy as we focus on healing and processing this difficult situation.”
Authorities said the instructor and one of the campers were not badly hurt.
The investigation into the crash remains open and ongoing, and officials also announced a team from Argentina has joined their efforts.
Copyright 2025 by WPLG Local10.com - All rights reserved.
