A sailing lesson turned tragic on July 28, 2025, when a youth sailboat crashed into a barge in Biscayne Bay near Miami Beach. “All the kids went flying off,” said nine-year-old witness Enzo Pifer Eddy. The collision, which occurred between Hibiscus and Monument Islands, resulted in the deaths of two girls, ages 7 and 13. Two others, ages 8 and 11, were critically injured and hospitalized.
The victims were part of a youth program run by the Miami Yacht Club and Youth Sailing Foundation. All six children and their 19-year-old counselor were thrown into the water. Some were trapped beneath the barge until emergency crews arrived.
The younger girl was identified as Mila Yankelevich, granddaughter of Argentine TV producers. The older victim, believed to be Erin Victoria Ko Han, was mourned by her Chilean school, though her identity has not been officially confirmed.
The Coast Guard is leading the investigation. Commander Frank Florio said, “We owe you answers and we are committed to finding them.” Officials are testing the tugboat captain and reviewing evidence from the scene.
The Miami Yacht Club called the event an “unthinkable tragedy” and has suspended all activities until further notice.
