Statement from US Sailing
All of us at US Sailing are deeply saddened to learn that a young sailing student tragically died as a result of an accident on the water during a youth sailing practice in Sarasota Bay on Saturday, November 21, 2020. We send our deepest condolences to the sailor’s family, the youth involved in the accident, and to the instructors, staff and volunteers of Sarasota Youth Sailing. The sailing community is united in support and sympathy during this time.
The incident is currently under investigation by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and will provide additional updates as they become available.
Here is the official announcement from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) on Saturday, November 21, 2020:
Today, at approximately 11:30 a.m., the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) received a report from the Sarasota Police Department of a boating accident in Sarasota Bay, Sarasota County. The accident involved two vessels operating just north of the Ringling Causeway that were taking part in a youth club sailing practice. The FWC, Sarasota Police Department and Sarasota County Fire all responded to the scene. One person, a juvenile under the age of 13, sustained serious injuries from the accident and was transported to the hospital. Sadly, the injured juvenile passed away from his injuries. We send our sincerest condolences to the friends and family of those involved in this accident and will continue to keep those impacted by this tragic incident in our thoughts and prayers for the difficult days ahead.
US Sailing has offered our support to Sarasota Youth Sailing, and as we learn more about this tragic accident, there may be further helpful information to share as appropriate.