Fort Lauderdale, Florida — More than two weeks after a devastating boat explosion, four burn victims remain hospitalized, including two children receiving treatment for their injuries. On Wednesday, a survivor, together with medical professionals from the Miami Burn Center at Jackson Memorial Hospital, shared the latest updates about the victims, highlighting their ongoing struggles.
One child is reportedly in serious condition, while the other is stable. Among the adults, one remains in critical condition. The incident occurred around 5:45 p.m. on Memorial Day when a 39-foot Sea Ray boat exploded near the 9th Street sandbar—a popular gathering spot for boaters and beachgoers during holiday weekends. According to Fort Lauderdale Fire Rescue, the boat was anchored prior to the explosion.
Witnesses confirmed that 15 individuals were on board at the time. A video of the incident captured the moment the flames erupted, with people jumping into the water to escape the chaos. In total, ten individuals, including the two children, were transported to the burn unit at Jackson Memorial for urgent care.
The blast tragically claimed the life of 28-year-old Joshua Fifi, who succumbed to his injuries after spending four days in the hospital with severe third-degree burns covering 70 percent of his body. Family members have described the explosion as a tragic accident, emphasizing how quickly events escalated.
Early investigations by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission point to a possible gas leak or vapor ignition during refueling as the cause. However, the official cause of the explosion is still under scrutiny by authorities who continue to gather evidence.
Community members have expressed their shock and sadness over the incident, calling for more stringent safety measures for boaters and recreational vehicles. As the investigation unfolds, family and friends remain hopeful for the recovery of the burn victims, offering prayers and support during this difficult time.
As updates on the survivors are released, the community is left grappling with the aftermath of the tragedy and the lingering questions about safety protocols in crowded recreational areas.