2 Girls Killed When Barge Struck Their Sailboat Identified, Including Granddaughter of Argentine TV Producers

Two young girls tragically lost their lives when a barge collided with their sailboat off Miami Beach. The victims have been identified as 7-year-old Mila Yankelevich and 13-year-old Erin Ko. Mila Yankelevich was revealed to be the granddaughter of well-known Argentine television producers Gustavo Yankelevich and Cris Morena. The incident took place on Monday, July 28, and resulted in a devastating loss for their families and the wider community. This heartbreaking event has sparked an ongoing investigation by the U.S. Coast Guard to determine the cause of the collision.

The sailboat, carrying a total of six individuals, was struck by a barge near Hibiscus Island around 11 a.m. local time. While four of the passengers were rescued from the water, Mila and Erin did not survive the tragic accident. Mila’s family has deep roots in the entertainment industry, as her grandfather and grandmother are prominent figures in Argentine television. The Miami-Dade County Medical Examiner’s office confirmed the identities of the victims, shedding light on the profound loss experienced by their loved ones.

Argentine media outlets have shared details about Mila’s family background, depicting her as a cherished member of a creative and talented lineage. Her grandmother, Cris Morena, had previously posted a heartfelt tribute to Mila on Instagram, reflecting on their special moments together. The grieving families of both victims have been deeply impacted by the sudden and tragic loss, with support pouring in from various communities and organisations.

Erin Ko, the 13-year-old who also lost her life in the collision, was identified as a former student of Colegio San Pedro Nolasco Vitacura in Santiago, Chile. Her untimely passing has left a void in the hearts of those who knew her, both in Chile and the United States. The close-knit sailing community, including the Miami Youth Sailing Foundation and the Miami Yacht Club, expressed their profound sorrow over the devastating incident, extending their condolences to the families affected.

The tragic accident has prompted an outpouring of support and condolences from individuals and organisations touched by the story. The Coast Guard’s ongoing investigation aims to uncover the circumstances leading to the collision, offering a glimmer of hope for the families seeking answers. As the community mourns the loss of Mila and Erin, the memories of these young souls will be cherished and remembered by those whose lives they touched.

In the wake of this heartbreaking event, Coast Guard officials have pledged to leave no stone unturned in their quest for answers. The profound impact of the collision has reverberated through the sailing community and beyond, underscoring the importance of safety measures and vigilance on the water. As the investigation unfolds, the families of the victims seek closure and justice, leaning on the support of their loved ones and the wider community during this difficult time.