What started as a busy Saturday afternoon near one of Florida’s most famous party beaches suddenly turned into chaos after a suspected boat explosion sent at least 15 people to the hospital — including a minor — near Miami’s popular Haulover Beach sandbar.
Authorities rushed to the scene around 1 p.m. after receiving reports of a possible explosion on the water near the packed sandbar area, according to local reports. Miami-Dade Fire Rescue quickly declared a Level 2 Mass Casualty Incident as dozens of emergency crews flooded the scene.
More than 25 rescue units responded as frantic calls poured in about burn victims and people in the water. Dispatch audio reportedly revealed that several victims suffered burns, while others had to be pulled from the water during the terrifying incident.
Rescue boats and an air unit were deployed as first responders scrambled to help victims scattered around the crowded boating hotspot.
Officials have not confirmed whether the boat actually exploded or what may have triggered the apparent blast. Authorities also have not said if there were any fatalities as of Saturday evening.
Dramatic scenes unfolded near Haulover Beach, a world-famous nudist destination located in North Miami that attracts huge weekend crowds, especially around its well-known sandbar party scene.
The sandbar, accessible during low tide, is often packed with boats, tourists, and locals looking to drink, swim, and party in the shallow waters. During warmer months, the half-mile stretch of beach becomes one of South Florida’s busiest gathering spots.
Photos from the scene showed emergency crews lining the shoreline while rescue teams worked frantically in the water.
Witnesses described a massive emergency response as sirens filled the air and helicopters circled overhead.
The investigation remains ongoing as officials work to determine exactly what caused the terrifying incident.
This is a developing story.
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