At least 15 people were injured and taken to hospitals after a boat explosion near Miami’s popular Haulover Sandbar on Saturday afternoon, prompting a major emergency response and a Level 2 mass casualty declaration by rescue officials.According to Miami-Dade Fire Rescue, emergency crews responded to reports of a “possible vessel explosion” around 12:48 p.m. near Haulover Sandbar in Biscayne Bay, one of South Florida’s busiest boating and party destinations.A charter boat was near the sandbar when an explosion occurred onboard, injuring multiple passengers, according to preliminary information shared by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.More than two dozen rescue units, including the United States Coast Guard, responded to the scene. Officials said 25 emergency units were deployed as part of the response operation.Miami-Dade Fire Rescue said crews “encountered multiple patients requiring medical attention” and confirmed that 15 people were transported to local hospitals. Authorities have not yet released details about the severity of the injuries or the condition of those hospitalised.The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission said an investigation into the cause of the explosion is underway.While officials have not confirmed what triggered the blast, one person who was onboard the vessel told the Miami Herald that a gas leak may have caused the explosion.The incident occurred during a crowded Saturday afternoon at Haulover Sandbar, a well-known recreational hotspot near Miami that regularly attracts large numbers of boaters and tourists.Meanwhile, Miami-Dade Fire Rescue Battalion Chief Juan Arias told Fox 2 Detroit that patients suffered “from burn injuries to some traumatic injuries as well.”In a press release, MDFR said, “As we’re in the midst of boating season, we want to remind our community to always prioritize safety while out on the water.”MDFR reminded boaters to prioritize safety during the busy boating season, urging operators to ensure vessels are equipped with working fire extinguishers and required safety gear.“Make sure your vessel is equipped with a working fire extinguisher and all required safety equipment. Before departure, perform a thorough safety check to ensure your boat is in good working condition and free of potential hazards. Taking a few extra precautions can help prevent emergencies and keep everyone safe,” MDFR said in the press release.
