A Florida man has been charged with seaman’s manslaughter months after a tragic incident in which three young girls drowned following a collision between a barge and a sailboat. Yusiel Lopez Insua, aged 46, was charged recently by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Florida regarding the incident that occurred on 28 July 2025 in Biscayne Bay.
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The unfortunate victims of this collision were Mila Yankelevich, aged 7, Arielle Buchman, aged 10, and Erin Victoria Ko, aged 13. The girls were on a sailing trip for a children’s camp, accompanied by two other children and one adult instructor, who managed to survive the incident. The collision has raised questions about navigational safety and oversight in marine operations.
Reports indicate that Insua was operating a tugboat pushing a barge loaded with construction debris at the time of the accident. The vessel’s deckhouse and crane obstructed his view, which may have contributed to his inability to see the children’s sailboat, which had stalled after losing wind, placing it directly in the barge’s path. Authorities allege that there was also no designated lookout on the barge, which is typically required for ensuring safety in such maritime operations.
According to a criminal complaint, investigators found that Insua had been active on an online marketplace both just before and during the collision. It is claimed that Insua “ran over, capsized, and crushed” the children’s sailboat, resulting in the vessel being submerged and pinned beneath the barge’s hull.
In a statement, U.S. Attorney Jason A. Reding Quiñones expressed his condolences to the families affected by this tragedy. He remarked on the preventable nature of the loss of life and highlighted the failure to observe fundamental maritime safety protocols, alongside the use of a mobile phone during a critical time while navigating.
The three girls, tragically lost, were not only young lives but also held significant places in their communities. Mila was recognised as the granddaughter of prominent Argentinian film producers Gustavo Yankelevich and Cris Morena, while Arielle was related to former Bal Harbour mayor Gabriel Groisman. Erin’s teacher poignantly reflected on her loss, saying, “Erin left a mark that’s indelible,” emphasising the impact she had on her school and peers.
Following the charges, Insua could face up to ten years in prison if convicted. As of now, court records do not show whether he has entered a plea. The ongoing investigation continues to shed light on the circumstances leading to the collision, and the community awaits further developments with heavy hearts.
This incident has sparked discussions regarding regulations surrounding boating safety measures and the responsibilities that come with operating larger vessels in proximity to smaller crafts. The tragedy serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance and adherence to safety protocols on the water, particularly in busy recreational areas.
There is growing concern among local communities about ensuring safety practices are strictly followed to prevent any similar incidents in the future. This case serves as a crucial moment for examining maritime safety regulations within Florida and could potentially inspire legislative changes aimed at protecting those who enjoy the water.