Miami, Florida – A new lawsuit has been filed in Miami against the companies involved in a frightening boat crash that occurred near Port Miami last month, leaving more than a dozen people injured. Stephanie and Matthew Camarato were passengers on the Thriller tour boat on February 11 when they were struck by a 43-foot charter boat, the Obelix.
Attorney Jack Hickey, who is representing the Camaratos, described the devastating incident, stating, “Everybody’s having a good time one minute. The next minute their lives are shattered, changed forever.” The lawsuit alleges that Stephanie Camarato, a mother of four, suffered life-threatening injuries after being struck in the head, while her husband, Matthew, also sustained head injuries, a severely dislocated shoulder, and fractured ribs. Hickey emphasized that Stephanie was the most seriously injured passenger in the crash.
According to the lawsuit, both boats engaged in excessive speed and dangerous maneuvering to thrill passengers, and neither vessel maintained a proper lookout. While Thriller Miami, the company operating the tour boat, expressed sadness and shock over the incident, they emphasized their commitment to customer safety and requested that assumptions be withheld until all the facts are established. The United States Coast Guard and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission are conducting a thorough investigation into the crash.
Jesus Porrata, the lead marine investigator for the United States Coast Guard in Miami, acknowledged that something went wrong that day but emphasized that the matter is still under investigation. Miami-Dade Fire Rescue Fireboat 73 responded to the incident, reminding everyone of the precarious nature of life on the water and the importance of safety precautions.
The crash took place in an area known as Fisherman’s Channel, which is often congested with various speed zones and ever-changing conditions. First responders warned that conditions and speed zones can change based on a boat’s location, stressing the importance of awareness and responsible boating.
The Camaratos’ lawsuit is the third filed in connection with the crash. Stephanie Camarato remains hospitalized in South Florida, far from her family in Illinois, as she continues to fight for her life. The Coast Guard is investigating whether the Obelix was operating an illegal charter, while representatives of Midnight Sun Charters, the boat’s owner, stated that the captain was properly licensed but not carrying his credentials at the time of the incident.
As investigations unfold and the victims seek justice, it is a stark reminder of the potential dangers involved in maritime activities. Miami’s picturesque waters can quickly turn treacherous, reminding boaters to exercise caution and prioritize safety at all times.