A holiday outing on the water turned tragic on Memorial Day when a boat anchored at a sandbar near Fort Lauderdale’s New River Triangle exploded, injuring 11 people, including two children. The explosion occurred around 5:45 p.m. on Monday, May 26, 2025, according to multiple emergency agencies including the U.S. Coast Guard and Fort Lauderdale Fire Rescue.
The vessel had been anchored in the Intracoastal Waterway near Southeast 12th Court—a popular gathering spot for boaters during holiday weekends. When the boat operator restarted the engine to head back to shore, the vessel suddenly exploded, throwing multiple passengers into the water and igniting a flash fire.
There were 13 people and one dog on board at the time. The boat’s occupants were rescued by a combination of emergency responders and nearby good Samaritans.
Injuries and Medical Response
Of the 13 people aboard the vessel, 11 were transported to Broward Health Medical Center with varying degrees of injury. At least one adult suffered significant burns and required intubation. Several victims were later transferred to Jackson Memorial Hospital’s burn unit for specialized care.
Officials confirmed that two of the injured were children, both hospitalized in fair condition. Witnesses reported seeing victims with severe burns, ripped clothing, and extensive injuries to their legs and torsos.
Possible Cause Under Investigation
While the official cause of the explosion is still under investigation, initial reports from witnesses and passengers suggest a possible fuel-related incident. One victim who was aboard the vessel, said the boat had just been refueled before the explosion occurred. He speculated that a fuel leak may have caused the blast when the engine was turned on.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), Fort Lauderdale Fire Rescue, and the Fire Marshal’s Office are continuing their investigation into the cause. Officials are examining the vessel, which was tied up at a nearby seawall after the explosion.
Risks and Safety Concerns
Boat explosions are rare but extremely dangerous. They often stem from fuel vapor buildup in enclosed engine compartments, faulty fuel lines, or electrical sparks. When a vessel explodes while passengers are onboard or nearby, injuries can be catastrophic—particularly when flammable materials ignite in confined spaces.
Common injuries in similar incidents include:
- Severe burns and smoke inhalation
- Traumatic brain injuries from being thrown overboard
- Lacerations from debris
- Emotional trauma, especially for children
Boaters are urged to follow all safety protocols, including ventilating the engine compartment before starting, checking for fuel leaks, and avoiding engine restarts immediately after refueling.
Legal Rights and Options
When a boating explosion results in serious injury, victims and their families may have grounds to pursue legal action. Liability may rest with:
- The boat owner or operator, if negligence or poor maintenance contributed to the explosion
- A marina or fueling facility, if improper procedures or faulty fuel delivery equipment were involved
- The boat manufacturer, if a design or equipment defect played a role
- A rental company, if the vessel was leased and lacked proper inspection or safety briefings
A boating accident attorney can help determine whether negligence occurred and whether compensation may be available for medical costs, burn treatment, lost wages, pain and suffering, and long-term recovery needs.
Speak With a Boating Accident Attorney
At Spagnoletti Law Firm, we have extensive experience handling complex cases involving recreational boat accidents and serious watercraft injuries. Our legal team works closely with investigators and marine safety experts to determine the cause of these accidents and to hold negligent parties accountable.
If you or a loved one was injured in a boating incident, contact us to learn your legal rights. We’re here to help you recover and seek the compensation you deserve.
Call 713-804-9306 today for a free consultation with an experienced boating injury attorney.