Miami: The parents of Mila Yankelevich sued the barge company for the fatal collision
The parents of Mila Yankelevich have sued Waterfront Construction, accusing the company of negligence following a fatal boating collision that took the life of their daughter.
The tragic case surrounding the death of 7-year-old Mila Yankelevich has taken a significant legal turn as her parents, TomΓ‘s Yankelevich and SofΓa Reca, have filed a lawsuit against Waterfront Construction, the company responsible for the barge involved in the fatal collision. The lawsuit, based on allegations of negligence and inadequate staffing, highlights the serious implications of the accident that occurred last year when Mila was participating in summer camp activities at the Miami Yacht Club. This incident has not only raised questions about boating safety but has also brought to light the tragic loss of young lives in such accidents.
According to reports from The Miami Herald, the legal action was initiated on December 29 and includes claims not just from Mila's family but also from families of the other three victims involved in the collision. On July 28, 2025, Mila and three other young campers were on a 17-foot Hobie Getaway sailboat when they were struck by a barge, leading to tragic consequences. The incident not only resulted in Mila's untimely death but has also left lasting scars on the surviving victims and their families. The lawsuit seeks accountability from Waterfront Construction and aims to shed light on the circumstances surrounding the incident that not only took Mila's life but also posed a threat to marine safety.
As this case unfolds, it exemplifies broader concerns regarding safety measures and regulations in boating activities, particularly involving children. The outcome of this lawsuit could have far-reaching implications for maritime law and operational standards for companies that provide boating services. Furthermore, it serves as a poignant reminder for the necessity of enforcing stringent safety protocols to prevent future tragedies on the water, maintaining a focus on the protection of vulnerable groups, such as young children engaged in extracurricular activities.