A devastating boat explosion at Lauderdale Marina on December 23, 2024, resulted in one fatality and five injuries. Fort Lauderdale Fire Rescue (FLFR) responded to numerous 911 calls around 6 p.m. reporting the explosion and subsequent fire, which rapidly spread to a second vessel.
Five individuals were transported to hospitals, three with severe injuries. Sadly, FLFR dive teams, in collaboration with the Broward Sheriff's Office, recovered a sixth victim from the water. Eyewitnesses described the chaotic scene to local news station WSVN. One witness recounted the suddenness of the explosion and the rapid spread of the flames, while another shared their frantic search for family members amid the chaos.
A local waiter described witnessing the boat erupt in flames and his attempts to assist those in need. According to WSVN, the explosion occurred at a refueling dock, the same location where a similar incident occurred just weeks prior. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission is leading the investigation into the cause of the explosion and resulting fires.
FLFR has not released the identities of those involved, citing privacy concerns. They stated that a more thorough investigation will be possible once the vessels are removed from the water.
