At least 11 people sent to hospital after suspected boat explosion in Miami | Miami

A suspicious boat explosion off Miami beach sent at least 11 people to the hospital Saturday, according to Miami Dade fire rescue battalion chief Juan Arias; some of them had burns and traumatic injuries.

First responders received reports of a possible boat explosion on the water at roughly 12:45 p.m., Arias said. said WPEC12.

It is not yet known what caused the explosion on a rental boat with approximately 14 people on board. accordingly NBC 6 South Florida.

Florida’s fish and wildlife conservation commission is investigating the incident, according to the Associated Press.

Haulover Sandbar attracts hundreds of spring breakers and other vacation-oriented visitors each year. Located in shallow waters, the beach has become the center of boat trips. Canoe enthusiasts also descend on the strip regularly.

Patrick Lee, a local businessman, was taking people on his boat to another ship at sea when the explosion occurred. said Miami Herald.

“When we looked outside, we saw three people flying off the boat in a cloud of smoke,” Lee said.