A teenager died and another remains hospitalized in critical condition after the jet ski they were riding collided with a dock, authorities reported, according to local media.
The accident occurred around 3:30 p.m. on Tuesday in the Intracoastal Waterway, near the 2800 block of Northeast 24th Court, between the Oakland Park and Sunrise Boulevard bridges, in a heavily trafficked area for recreational boating, according to Fort Lauderdale Fire Rescue cited by Univision.
The authorities indicated that the two young women were traveling together on the same jet ski, "mounted in tandem," when they crashed into a wooden structure. Both were part of a group that included two adults on another jet ski, although the latter was not involved in the accident.
Paramedics transported the teenagers to Broward Health Medical Center with life-threatening injuries. One of them was pronounced dead around 6:30 p.m., confirmed by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), as reported by Local10. The other remains hospitalized in critical condition.
The FWC, which is leading the investigation, has not revealed the cause of the accident nor whether factors such as speed, human error, or mechanical failures played a role. “We confirm the death of the minor, but we cannot provide more information at this time,” said Arielle Callender, a spokesperson for the agency.
Aerial images showed several jet skis and a boat near the dock of a residence, according to Telemundo 51. So far, the identities of the victims have not been disclosed.
In Florida, to operate a jet ski, one must be at least 14 years old, and to rent one, at least 18. Anyone born on or after January 1, 1988, is required to complete an approved boating safety course and carry the corresponding identification card. Operators and passengers must wear non-inflatable life jackets, and if the vehicle allows, use the engine cut-off cord, reminded Univision.
Data from the FWC, cited by the same source, indicate that in 2024, there were 42 jet ski accidents recorded in Broward, Palm Beach, and Miami-Dade counties, resulting in 13 fatalities across the state and nearly 500 citations for violations.
Frequently asked questions about the jet ski accident in Fort Lauderdale
What happened in the jet ski accident in Fort Lauderdale?
A teenager died and another was seriously injured when the jet ski they were riding crashed into a dock. The accident occurred in the Intracoastal Waterway, a popular area for recreational boating.
What are the regulations for operating a Jet Ski in Florida?
In Florida, you must be at least 14 years old to operate a jet ski and 18 years old to rent one. It is also mandatory to complete a boating safety course and carry the corresponding identification card.
What was the response of the authorities to the accident?
The authorities, including the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), have initiated an investigation to determine the causes of the accident. The victims were transported to Broward Health Medical Center in critical condition.
What safety measures should be taken when using jet skis?
It is mandatory to use non-inflatable life vests and, if the vehicle allows, to use the engine shut-off cord. These measures are essential to ensure safety when operating jet skis.
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