MIAMI-DADE COUNTY, Fla. – A suspected was arrested Monday in connection with a boat collision that authorities said claimed the lives of two men in Biscayne Bay back in April.
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Authorities confirmed the arrest of 58-year-old Roberto Perez in connection with the fatal crash.
Investigators with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission said the collision occurred at approximately April 24 just before 6:30 p.m. in clear daylight near Featherbed Bank, a popular boating area about 14 miles from Dinner Key Marina.
Investigators said a 2019 51-foot Azimut cabin cruiser, operated by Perez, struck and partially overrode a 2022 17-foot Key West center console boat carrying six people, including two children aged 8 and 10, when it collided with the other vessel.
The smaller boat was helmed by Jorge Marenco, 49, who was onboard with his wife, Martha Marenco; her brother, José Turcios, 51; his wife, Thelma Padilla; and three children aged 7 and 2, according to an arrest report.
Authorities said both Jorge Marenco and Jose Turcios died from injuries sustained in the collision. The remaining passengers, including the children, survived. Officials did not disclose their conditions in the publicly released report.
Operator Allegedly Violated Navigation Rules
FWC officials said that Perez violated multiple U.S. Coast Guard navigation rules, including maintaining a proper lookout and taking action to avoid a collision.
GPS data indicated Perez traveled approximately two miles over four minutes at 30 mph without maintaining awareness of the slower-moving Key West vessel, which was traveling at around 10 mph, the report stated.
As the operator of the larger and faster overtaking vessel, authorities said Perez failed to yield the right of way to the smaller boat. He also neglected to take evasive action, contributing to the deadly collision, according to investigators.
Reckless and Negligent Operation
Perez’s alleged disregard for navigational safety was described by investigators as reckless and showing “wanton disregard” for others on the water. “Vessels lack brakes, airbags, or seat belts, and their operators have an increased duty to ensure safety,” a report from FWC stated.
On Monday, Perez was arrested in connection with the collision.
Jail records show he is facing one count each of vessel homicide while operating in a reckless manner.
As of Tuesday, Perez remains at the Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center, where he was placed on a magistrate hold and his bond was listed as “to be set.”