This tragic case from Biscayne Bay, Florida, highlights critical maritime safety failures. Yusiel Lopez Insua, 46, was charged this week with seaman’s manslaughter for a July 28, 2025, collision that killed three girls from a children’s sailing camp.
The Victims
- Mila Yankelevich, 7 (granddaughter of Argentine film producers Gustavo Yankelevich and Cris Morena).
- Arielle Buchman, 10 (cousin of ex-Bal Harbour mayor Gabriel Groisman).
- Erin Victoria Ko, 13 (remembered as a “light” by her teacher).
Two other kids and a counselor survived after being trapped under the barge.
What Went Wrong
Insua piloted a tugboat pushing a debris-loaded barge with a crane/deckhouse blocking forward view—no lookout assigned. The sailboat stalled due to lost wind right in its path. Cellphone data showed Insua browsing an online marketplace before and during the crash. The barge ran over, capsized, and pinned the boat, leading to the drownings.
U.S. Attorney Jason A. Reding Quiñones called it “preventable,” citing ignored safety rules and cellphone distraction.
Charges and Next Steps
Insua faces up to 10 years if convicted. No arraignment details yet in court records.
Heartbreaking reminder to prioritize safety on the water—thoughts on stricter barge operator rules?
