A Saturday evening swim in Biscayne Bay turned terrifying when a 21-year-old woman was struck by a personal watercraft and the operator allegedly bolted, according to authorities. First responders treated the victim after the hit-and-run, and investigators later tracked down a 34-year-old man they say was behind the controls. He was arrested on a felony charge tied to leaving the scene without offering help.
What investigators say
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, as reported by NBC6, said the crash happened around 7 p.m. Saturday while the woman was swimming in Biscayne Bay. Officers identified the personal watercraft operator as 34-year-old Andy Vences. Investigators say Vences did not stop to check on the swimmer, did not call for help and instead left the area without notifying authorities. He was later taken into custody and booked on a felony count of leaving the scene of an accident without rendering aid.
Authorities respond
Miami-Dade County Area Captain Rafael Almagro did not mince words in a statement to NBC6. "There is no excuse for leaving the scene of an accident," he said, adding that officers were glad to have quickly located and arrested the suspect so he "can be held accountable," according to the report.
Legal consequences
Florida law is not exactly gentle on boaters who take off after a crash. Under state boating rules, operators involved in a vessel accident must stay put, provide assistance and report what happened. Failing to do so when someone is hurt is a third-degree felony, according to the Florida Senate. The statute instructs operators to give "all possible aid" and to notify law enforcement, and it spells out felony penalties when an accident results in personal injury. Judges may also tack on fines and probation on top of any prison time.
Wider pattern in Biscayne Bay
The arrest lands in the middle of a rough stretch on Biscayne Bay, where boating safety has been under a harsh spotlight after a run of serious crashes this month. Earlier in March, investigators were searching for a boat tied to a deadly hit-and-run that left a 55-year-old man dead and his teenage son injured, according to reporting by CBS Miami. FWC officers later located a vessel of interest in that case and urged anyone who might have seen something to speak up.
How to help investigators
For those who have video or information that could help, FWC investigators want to hear about it. Tipsters are asked to call the Wildlife Alert Hotline at 888-404-3922 or contact the Miami Beach Police Department at 305-673-7900, according to Local10. Tips can be submitted anonymously through FWC reporting channels.
For now, the personal watercraft case moves forward in the criminal courts while FWC continues its investigation and Miami-Dade police assist with related work. Regulars on the water say the recent string of collisions is a blunt reminder of how crowded the bay can get during peak season. Authorities are again urging boaters and swimmers to follow safety rules and stay alert so a fun day on the water does not end with sirens.
