FORT LAUDERDALE, FL - At least 13 people were injured and 7 hospitalized after a recreational boat exploded on the New River Thursday afternoon.
According to the Sun-Sentinel, 21 people were on the 41-foot Wellcraft pleasure boat when it exploded at about 2:00 p.m. The vessel was in the Intercoastal Waterway at the time.
Witnesses reported seeing numerous people jumping from the blazing watercraft and into the water. People in other boats were pulling the victims from the water by the time officials arrived.
Seven people were transported to Broward Health Medical Center to be treated for minor injuries. Two others were more seriously injured, one of whom was taken to Jackson Memorial Burn Unit in Miami with third-degree burns.
Fire crews were able to extinguish the fire by 3:00 p.m. An investigation into what may have caused the explosion is underway.
If you have been injured or lost a loved one due to a watercraft accident in Fort Lauderdale, you should consider talking to a personal injury attorney to decide if you have a claim. The Fort Lauderdale watercraft and boating accident attorneys with VG Law have the experience necessary to secure the compensation you need during your recovery. Schedule your free consultation today by calling 1-833-HELP-365 or filling out our online contact form.
