On Memorial Day evening in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, a boat explosion resulted in nearly a dozen people, including two children, being hospitalized. The incident occurred around 5:45 p.m. near the New River Triangle, close to the Lauderdale Yacht Club. U.S. Coast Guard officials confirmed that 13 people were aboard the boat at the time of the explosion, which unexpectedly tossed individuals into the water. Good Samaritans quickly came to the rescue, with Fort Lauderdale Fire Rescue crews also responding.
Fire Rescue spokesman Frank Guzman reported that 11 patients, including significant burn victims, were initially taken to Broward Health Medical Center, with some later transferred to Jackson Memorial Hospital due to the severity of their injuries. Of the 10 patients received by Jackson, eight adults were in good condition, while two children were classified as being in fair condition; one individual required intubation.
Witnesses described the chaotic scene, with a fireball erupting as the boat exploded. Antonio Rivero, who was on the boat with his family, speculated that a gas leak ignited a spark, causing the blast. Some victims were reported to have severe burns and damaged clothing. Witnesses recounted the desperate situation, with one victim pleading for water as he suffered significant injuries.
Emergency responders, including Fort Lauderdale Police and the U.S. Coast Guard, were on the scene and worked to investigate the explosion’s cause. Crews also rescued a dog from the boat, which was unharmed. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission is aiding in the investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding the explosion.
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