Miami Captain Charged in Deadly Boat Collision

A Miami boat captain is facing federal charges following a tragic incident that claimed the lives of three girls participating in a sailing camp. Yusiel Lopez Insua, 46, has been charged with seaman’s slaughter in connection with the July 28, 2025, collision in Biscayne Bay.

Details of the Incident

According to federal court filings, Insua was captaining a 25-foot tugboat pushing a 108-foot construction barge when it struck a sailboat operated by the Miami Yacht Club. Prosecutors state the sailboat “lost wind and stalled” directly in the path of the larger vessels.

Allegations of Negligence

The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Florida alleges that Insua was operating the barge with “obstructed visibility and without a proper lookout.” Evidence suggests Insua may have been using his cellphone at the time of the collision, with records showing activity on internet marketplaces.

Victims Identified

The sailboat carried a 19-year-old sailing instructor and five girls at the time of the crash. Mila Yankelevich, 7, Arielle Buchman, 10, and Erin Ko, 13, tragically died as a result of the collision. The three girls were trapped beneath the barge and drowned.

Survivors and Response

The sailing instructor and two other girls were able to escape the wreckage. U.S. Attorney Jason A. Reding Quiñones expressed condolences, stating, “Our hearts are with the families of the children who lost their lives in this tragedy.” He further emphasized the preventable nature of the loss, citing failures in maritime safety and potential cellphone use during operation.

Potential Penalties and Legal Representation

If convicted of seaman’s manslaughter, Insua could face up to 10 years in prison. His attorney, Walter A. Reynoso, released a statement expressing his client’s deep sadness and condolences to the families. Reynoso indicated Insua intends to accept responsibility and resolve the case to minimize further pain for the victims’ families.

“Our client remains deeply saddened by the tragic boating accident that resulted in the loss of three young lives,” Reynoso stated. “He extends his heartfelt condolences to the families and loved ones of the victims….”