The explosion occurred at around 12:48 PM on May 9 at Haulover Sandbar, a popular destination in Miami, attracting many yachts and tourists on weekends.
US authorities said the explosion occurred unexpectedly when the yacht was operating near the shore. After a loud explosion, flames flared up fiercely, dense black smoke covered the area, causing passengers to panic.
About 25 firefighters from the Miami-Dade Rescue Team and the US Coast Guard were mobilized to the scene.
Many people trapped underwater were taken onto lifeboats and transferred to local hospitals. Air rescue teams also participated in transporting victims.
Initial information shows that at least 15 people were injured. Among them, a child was burned about 18% of his body, and at least one adult was burned up to 30%. Some other victims were burned and suffocated by smoke, many cases were identified as moderately injured.
Witness Leo, who was on board the distressed yacht, said that the cause of the explosion may be related to gas leakage. The ship that encountered the incident was the Cruisers Yachts 4400 Express model, about 12 m long, specializing in sea vacations and parties.
“That was the worst experience of my life,” this witness said.
Patrick Lee - a local train driver said he witnessed many people being thrown off the train amidst thick smoke after the explosion.
According to Lee's experience, the incident may have originated from an operating error when the captain started the ship without opening the engine room lid and not turning on the ventilation fan system, leading to air accumulation causing an explosion.
Meanwhile, firefighters believe that the initial cause may be related to technical malfunctions or fuel leakage on the ship. The captain is believed to be unharmed.
A few hours after the accident, the ship was towed to a wharf near the Haulover Maritime Center for investigation. According to data from the US Coast Guard, the ship was registered for recreational purposes.
Haulover Sandbar is a popular gathering point for private yachts in Florida. During the sea tourism season, especially on weekends, hundreds of yachts often anchor close to each other to hold parties and relax.
The Miami-Dade Rescue Agency recommends that ship owners and tourists pay attention to fire prevention and fighting measures, and fully equip themselves with rescue equipment as sea tourism in the US enters its summer peak.
