On 01/12/13 a single vessel with 2 POB traveled under the MacArthur Causeway bridge on the ICW.

The vessel operator was instructed by USCG to maintain their position and control of the vessel while a large cruise ship turned in the west turn basin of Miami Harbor Channel (Government Cut). 

Operator identified and his passenger decided to turn around and head back North along the ICW towards 79st the boat ramp. While turning his 18ft bow rider, Operator accelerated too much and headed towards the west bridge fenders. Operator panicked and turned off his engine (which caused him to lose propulsion and steering)to brace for impact. He instructed occupant, who was seated at the bow of the vessel, to extend her arms to stop the impact. Operator moved towards the port side to assist with stopping the impact. The vessel drifted under an opening in the horizontal bridge fenders briefly pinning occupant between the fenders and where she was seated. 

The impact was quick and very short, but severe enough that caused her heart to have complete separation from its place. occupant suffered internal injuries which lead to her death.; victim’s heart was severed which caused internal bleeding.
MIAMI BEACH