KEY WEST, Fla. – The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission is investigating a fatal boat crash that occurred Thursday afternoon in Key West.
According to the FWC, the single-vessel crash was reported at about 4 p.m. It involved the Florida Powerboat Club racing team.
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Arielle Callender, a spokesperson for the agency, told Local 10 News in an email that the boat – a 39-foot Deep Impact – was traveling in North Key West Harbor when it struck a sandbar and rolled, ejecting five of the eight people onboard.
She said the victims were transported to local hospitals for treatment, but one person died. She was later identified as Stephanie Rodriguez, 28, of northwest Miami-Dade.
Authorities identified the operator as Reinaldo Aquit, 47, of Miami Beach. It’s not clear whether he will be facing any charges.
“On behalf of Florida Powerboat Club members and our extended Florida boating community, we remain in shock over this recent tragedy. Our thoughts and prayers go to the family of Ms. Rodriguez and those injured, and we pray for the quick recovery of those currently hospitalized,” Florida Powerboat Club founder Stu Jones said in a statement to Local 10 News. “Meanwhile we are awaiting news and updated reports from Florida Fish & Wildlife Commission who are currently investigating this tragic accident near Key West.”