Home / Disasters and Accidents / Three Children Die After Barge Hits Sailboat
Three Children Die After Barge Hits Sailboat
1 Apr
Summary
- Tugboat operator charged with seaman's manslaughter.
- Barge's obstructed view and lack of lookout cited.
- Cell phone internet activity occurred during transit.
Federal prosecutors have charged Yusiel Lopez Insua, 46, with seaman's manslaughter in connection with a fatal collision between a tugboat-pushed barge and a sailboat. The incident occurred on July 28, near Miami Beach, resulting in the deaths of three children.
The barge, laden with construction materials, struck a stalled sailboat carrying five girls from a youth sailing camp and a counselor. Prosecutors state Insua's visibility was severely limited by cargo, and he was reportedly using his cellphone during transit.
A lookout was not stationed at the front of the barge, despite the counselor attempting to warn the crew. Drug and alcohol tests for those involved, including Insua, returned negative results.
Waterfront Construction, the tugboat owner, is facing legal action, as families of the victims have filed lawsuits alleging negligence. The Miami Youth Sailing Foundation also operates the camp attended by the victims.
