It is with profound sorrow and heartbreak that we announce the passing of Mila Yankelevich, 7, and Erin Ko, 13, two vibrant young girls whose lives were tragically cut short in a devastating boating accident in Biscayne Bay, Florida. The Miami-Dade County Medical Examiner confirmed on Tuesday, July 29, 2025, that both girls died following a collision between their sailboat and a barge, though specific causes of death, such as accidental drowning, have not been publicly disclosed by authorities.
The incident occurred on Monday, July 28, 2025, during a youth sailing lesson organized by the Miami Yacht Club as part of the Miami Youth Sailing Foundation’s summer camp for children aged 7 to 15. The 17-foot Hobie Getaway sailboat, carrying five girls and a 19-year-old camp counselor, was struck by a 60-foot barge equipped with a crane near Hibiscus Island, between Hibiscus and Monument Islands, around 11:15 a.m. The collision caused the sailboat to capsize and sink, throwing all six occupants into the water. Despite rapid response from Miami Beach Fire Rescue, Miami-Dade Fire Rescue, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), and the U.S. Coast Guard, the tragedy could not be averted.
**A Global Tragedy That Crossed Borders**
Mila Yankelevich, a joyful 7-year-old from Argentina, was the daughter of director Tomas Yankelevich and actress Sofia Reca, and the granddaughter of renowned Argentine television producers Gustavo Yankelevich and Cris Morena. Described by loved ones as a radiant soul with an infectious smile and a love for singing, dancing, and wearing costumes, Mila’s death has resonated deeply in South Florida and Argentina. Prominent Argentine media figures, including TV host Marcelo Tinelli and actor Nicolás Vázquez, expressed their devastation, with Vázquez noting, “Mila’s passing is one of those tragedies that hurts to the soul.” The Argentine consulate in Miami confirmed her death, and her family, who split their time between Surfside, Florida, and Argentina, arrived in Miami shortly after the incident but has not commented publicly.
Erin Ko, a 13-year-old Chilean national, had moved to the United States from Santiago, Chile, in 2024. A former student at Colegio San Pedro Nolasco Vitacura from 2016 to 2024, Erin was remembered by her school community as an exceptional student, particularly in mathematics, and a compassionate friend. Her enthusiasm for extracurricular activities, including volleyball, trapeze, and aerial fabric workshops, showcased her courage and vibrant spirit. The school’s obituary post highlighted her ability to connect with peers across different levels, stating, “Her friendliness and personality allowed her to interact with students at different levels.” A memorial Mass was planned for Thursday, July 31, 2025, to honor Erin with her former classmates and family in attendance.
**The Incident and Ongoing Investigation**
Preliminary reports indicate that all children aboard the sailboat were wearing life jackets, a standard safety measure in the Miami Yacht Club’s program. Despite this precaution, the collision with the barge, which was supporting construction operations in Miami Beach, proved catastrophic. Witnesses described a harrowing scene: one young sailor recalled, “The crane just completely destroyed the boat. The boat just went under,” while another reported hearing a girl cry for help from beneath the barge. The sailboat remained submerged under the barge, prompting the Coast Guard to establish a 250-yard safety zone to facilitate salvage operations and prevent environmental hazards like oil spills.
The U.S. Coast Guard, led by Capt. Frank Florio, commander of Coast Guard Sector Miami, is spearheading the investigation in collaboration with the FWC. Authorities are reviewing surveillance video, interviewing the barge captain and witnesses, and awaiting results from alcohol and chemical tests administered to the tugboat operator. Florio emphasized the agency’s commitment, stating, “We owe you answers, and we are committed to finding them.” Questions remain about the circumstances of the collision, including whether the barge signaled appropriately or if the sailboat’s counselor could adequately manage five young sailors while navigating a busy waterway. The FWC has taken the lead on the investigation, with both agencies working to determine causal factors and prevent future tragedies.
**Injuries and Community Impact**
Two other girls, ages 8 and 11, were critically injured and remain in critical condition at Jackson Memorial Hospital’s Ryder Trauma Center. A 12-year-old girl and the 19-year-old camp counselor were rescued in good condition and did not require hospitalization. The identities of the surviving girls have not been officially released by authorities, and no information from credible sources confirms the names Calena Gruber or Arielle Itke Bas Rivka Aliza as victims. The Miami Yacht Club has suspended its youth sailing program to conduct a thorough safety review and support those affected. Commodore Emily Copeland expressed the club’s grief, stating, “The entire MYC family is devastated by this terrible tragedy.”
The tragedy has sent shockwaves through the local and international sailing communities. Vigils have emerged at the Miami Yacht Club on Watson Island, where parents, sailors, and community members have placed flowers, candles, and photos to honor Mila and Erin. Social media posts from Argentina, Chile, and South Florida reflect shared grief, with one local sailor noting, “This is every parent’s worst nightmare.” The incident has also renewed calls for stricter boating safety measures in Biscayne Bay, which has seen prior fatal accidents, including a hit-and-run involving a wakeboarder in May 2024.
**Remembering Mila and Erin**
Mila Yankelevich and Erin Ko were more than victims of a tragic accident—they were bright lights whose passions, talents, and kindness touched countless lives. Mila’s love for the arts and Erin’s adventurous spirit and empathy left indelible marks on their families, friends, and communities. Their stories underscore the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing every moment.
The Miami Yacht Club and Miami Youth Sailing Foundation have pledged ongoing support for the families and the sailing community. Details regarding memorial services and commemorative events are expected to be shared soon. In the meantime, the public is encouraged to honor Mila and Erin by supporting water safety initiatives, offering prayers, or holding loved ones close.
May the memories of Mila and Erin be a blessing, and may their families find strength in the outpouring of love and support from around the world.
