ICYMI: Florida Man Faces Felony Homicide Charge After Fatal Boat Crash Kills Teen on Birthday
A Florida developer’s boat crash left a teen dead and another with life-altering injuries—now he’s facing serious charges. 🌐 #News #MiamiFL #Florida #Crime
MIAMI, FL – A Florida real estate developer has turned himself in to authorities after being implicated in a deadly boat crash that took the life of a teen and left another with permanent injuries. George Pino, 52, surrendered to law enforcement two years after the fatal incident, which took place in Biscayne Bay near Boca Chita Key in the Florida Keys.
Details of the Tragic Incident
On the evening of September 2022, Pino took a 29-foot Robalo boat out for his daughter’s 18th birthday celebration, carrying 14 passengers on board. According to authorities, Pino was speeding at approximately 50 miles per hour when he struck a channel marker while heading back to dock. The impact caused the boat to capsize, throwing all passengers into the water.
The crash led to the death of 17-year-old Lucy Fernandez and left 18-year-old Katerina Puig with a traumatic brain injury that has left her permanently disabled. Authorities noted that the crash also tore a large hole in the boat’s side. While Pino initially claimed the collision was an accident caused by a passing vessel’s wake, witnesses and new evidence have led to a significant change in the charges against him.
New Evidence Leads to Felony Charge
Two years after the crash, Pino appeared in court for the first time on Thursday, facing a felony homicide charge. This followed the release of bodycam footage that showed Pino admitting he had consumed “two beers” while operating the boat. This admission, along with witness testimony and additional investigation, prompted prosecutors to upgrade the charges from misdemeanors to felony homicide.
Pino had originally been charged with three misdemeanors, but those charges were dropped in favor of the more serious felony charge after new witnesses came forward. He pleaded not guilty to the felony homicide charge during his appearance in Miami-Dade Court. Pino’s potential sentence could range from a minimum of 15 years to a maximum of 30 years in prison if convicted.
The Impact of the Crash and Pino’s Legal Battle
The tragic crash has left lasting emotional and physical scars on the victims and their families. While authorities did not administer a sobriety test at the scene, investigators later discovered 61 empty alcohol bottles, including one bottle of champagne, on the boat. This evidence has raised questions about Pino’s level of impairment at the time of the crash, though Pino himself has denied being intoxicated.
At the scene, the boat was described as severely damaged, with the crash creating a large hole in the side of the vessel. Eleven people were injured, including the two teenagers, and Pino’s daughter was among those aboard. Pino’s next court appearance is set for January, where he will face further legal proceedings in the case.
Honoring the Victims and Their Families
As the legal process unfolds, the focus remains on the young lives affected by this tragedy. The Fernandez and Puig families continue to cope with the deep loss and lifelong consequences of the crash. This case serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of safety and responsibility on the water.
In times of hardship, we can find solace in the words of Matthew 5:4: “Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.” May the victims and their families find peace and healing in the days ahead.
RELATED TOPICS: Crime | Florida
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