Coast Guard Investigates Deadly Sailing Camp Collision in Miami

The U.S. Coast Guard has confirmed that the captain of the tugboat involved in Monday’s fatal collision, which resulted in the deaths of two young girls attending a sailing camp, underwent an alcohol test as part of the ongoing investigation.

One of the two girls who died has been identified as 7-year-old Mila Yankelevich. She was the granddaughter of Cris Morena, an award-winning Argentinian TV producer, according to reports. The Argentine Consulate in Miami confirmed her identity. The consulate stated that it was informed of the incident and is ready to assist the family members within its jurisdiction.

Mila Yankelevich's family members are also involved in the entertainment industry. Her grandfather, Gustavo Yankelevich, and father, Tomas Yankelevich, are producers, while her mother, Sofia Reca, is an actor.

Yankelevich and a second victim, a 13-year-old whose identity has not been confirmed, died after being transported to Jackson Memorial Hospital Monday. Officials reported that an 8-year-old girl and an 11-year-old girl were in critical condition. Other individuals rescued included a 12-year-old girl, a 19-year-old girl, and a female instructor.

Capt. Frank Florio, commander of Coast Guard Sector Miami, stated in a press conference that the young girls were wearing life vests at the time of the collision. The alcohol-level test is standard procedure following such incidents. Florio did not reveal the test results or details of the tugboat captain’s statement to investigators.

Investigators will also examine whether the tug and barge crew possessed the proper licenses. A witness described the boat being destroyed by the crane and a girl calling for help. The investigation will also include the Miami Yacht Club, where the girls launched their sailboat as part of a summer camp program.

The Miami Yacht Club is cooperating with law enforcement. The club announced that its campus, including all partnering organizations' facilities, would be closed until further notice. The club expressed its deep grief and offered thoughts and prayers to the families, sailors, instructors, and volunteers involved in the program.