A tragic boating accident in Biscayne Bay on July 28, 2025, claimed the lives of two children during a youth sailing lesson. The sailboat, part of a Miami Yacht Club program, collided with a barge near Hibiscus Island, throwing six children and a counselor into the water.

The victims were identified as 7-year-old Mila Yankelevich, granddaughter of famed Argentine producers Cris Morena and Gustavo Yankelevich, and 13-year-old Erin Victoria Ko Han. Two other girls, ages 8 and 11, remain hospitalized in critical condition, while a 12-year-old girl and the counselor survived without serious injuries.

Witnesses described the crash as “super scary,” recalling children’s screams from beneath the barge. Emergency crews responded within minutes, but the sailboat remains submerged as the U.S. Coast Guard investigates.

The Miami Yacht Club called the loss an “unthinkable tragedy” and suspended all operations. Officials are testing the tugboat captain for alcohol and reviewing evidence. “We owe you answers,” said Commander Frank Florio, vowing a thorough investigation.