Official statement or report release by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission

33 Passengers Involved in Airboat Collision in Florida Everglades, 16 Hospitalized

Dec 13, 2024, 09:26 PM

Two airboats collided near the Tamiami Trail in the Florida Everglades on Friday afternoon, resulting in a Level 2 mass casualty incident. The crash, which occurred south of U.S. 41 between mile markers 74 and 75, involved up to 33 passengers. According to authorities, at least 16 people were hospitalized, with some sustaining potentially serious injuries. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is leading the investigation into the incident. Multiple agencies, including the Collier County Sheriff's Office, responded to the scene. Representative Byron Donalds has stated that his office is actively tracking the situation, and he and his wife are praying for the health and safety of all involved.