Authorities in South Florida have identified the person involved in the hit-and-run boating accident that resulted in the death of 15-year-old Ella Riley Adler. The incident, which took place over the weekend, has led to an extensive investigation by local officials.
Details of the Incident
Carlos Guillermo Alonso, 78, of Coral Gables, was driving a 42-foot Boston Whaler in Key Biscayne when his boat allegedly struck Ella Riley Adler. According to a Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) report, Ella was wakeboarding and had fallen into the water when she was struck by Alonso’s vessel. Witnesses reported that the boat left the scene without stopping. Ella was retrieved by her own boat but unfortunately died from her injuries.
Timeline and Location
The tragic accident occurred on Saturday afternoon in the waters off Key Biscayne, near Nixon Beach. Ella was wakeboarding behind a 42-foot 2017 Hanse Fjord yacht when she fell into the ocean. Another female wake surfer was also in the water at the same time but fell at a different location. While waiting to be picked up by her boat, Ella was struck by Alonso’s vessel, which did not slow down or swerve, according to witnesses. The accident happened about a mile from shore at 4:30 p.m. The beach is located in Miami-Dade County, approximately 7 miles south of downtown Miami.
Investigation and Statements
Alonso, who goes by the name Bill, was identified and has been cooperating with the investigation. His attorney, Lauren Krasnoff, stated that Alonso did not know he had struck anyone and was devastated to learn about the incident. Krasnoff mentioned that Alonso, an experienced boater with 50 years of experience, was out boating alone and did not drink alcohol on the day of the accident.
In a statement to USA TODAY, Krasnoff expressed condolences to Ella’s family and emphasized Alonso’s cooperation with law enforcement. Alonso’s boat has been taken into custody as part of the investigation, and officials have not disclosed whether Alonso will face charges related to the incident.
About Ella Adler
Ella Adler, a talented ballerina, lived in Miami Beach and attended Ransom Everglades High School. Her obituary described her as a force of nature with a love for dance, friends, and family. She is survived by her parents, Amanda and Matthew Adler, her younger siblings Jaden and Adalynn, and many other relatives. Ella was also the granddaughter of Michael Adler, the current U.S. Ambassador to Belgium.
Reward for Information
A $20,000 reward is being offered for information regarding the hit-and-run boating death. This reward includes $10,000 from Ella’s family and a combined $10,000 from FWC and Miami-Dade Crime Stoppers. Witnesses to the crash are urged to contact these agencies with any information.
