Yacht Operator Charged with Homicide in Fatal Biscayne Bay Collision
MIAMI — A yacht operator has been charged with two counts of homicide by reckless operation of a vessel following a fatal boating accident in Biscayne Bay that claimed two lives.
The crash occurred on Sunday, April 21, at approximately 6:30 p.m., when a 51-foot yacht piloted by Roberto Perez, 58, collided with a 17-foot vessel in an open area of the bay near Dinner Key Marina.
The victims, Jorge Marenco, 49, and his brother-in-law, Jose Turcios, 51, were aboard the smaller vessel at the time of the crash. Both sustained fatal injuries, according to authorities.
Investigation Reveals Multiple Violations
An investigation by local authorities and the U.S. Coast Guard found that Perez violated several critical navigation rules, including:
- Failing to maintain a proper lookout.
- Neglecting to take action to avoid a collision.
- Not yielding the right-of-way to the smaller vessel as required.
Perez’s yacht was traveling at 30 mph for approximately four minutes before the collision, GPS data revealed. In contrast, the smaller vessel, captained by Marenco, was traveling at a significantly slower speed of 10 mph.
Investigators determined that Perez failed to observe or react to the slower-moving vessel, despite clear weather and daylight conditions in the busy waterway.
“Reckless Disregard” for Safety
Authorities described Perez’s actions as reckless, citing his failure to adhere to basic safety protocols as a seasoned vessel operator.
“Vessels do not have brakes, airbags, or seatbelts,” investigators noted in their report. “As an experienced operator, Perez knew or should have known the risks associated with failing to maintain a proper lookout, particularly in heavily trafficked areas like Biscayne Bay.”
The crash also endangered 10 other people aboard the two vessels. Each carried six occupants, including the operators.
Legal Consequences
Perez was arrested and charged with two counts of homicide by vessel for what authorities deemed a “wanton disregard” for the safety of others. He is expected to face trial, with legal experts suggesting that the case could result in significant penalties given the fatalities and nature of the violations.
Boating Safety Concerns
The tragedy has reignited conversations about boating safety in South Florida, where crowded waterways and high-speed vessels often create hazardous conditions. Officials continue to urge vessel operators to adhere strictly to navigation rules to prevent further accidents.
No further details have been released about the victims’ families or funeral arrangements. Authorities emphasized that this case underscores the importance of vigilance and responsibility on the water.
The investigation remains ongoing.
