A Father’s Heartbreak: The Biscayne Bay Tragedy
A devastating boating accident in Biscayne Bay on July 28th, 2025, claimed the lives of two young girls, leaving two families shattered and demanding answers. This tragedy underscores the fragility of life and the urgent need for accountability. This blog post explores the heartbreaking stories of the victims and the desperate search for justice.
The Loss of Erin Victoria Ko Han
Thirteen-year-old Erin Victoria Ko Han, a bright and vibrant student from Chile, was tragically killed in the accident. Her father, Pil Jye Ko, shared a deeply moving interview with Local 10 News, his words echoing the profound grief of a parent who has lost their only child. The interview, widely shared on social media, sparked an outpouring of sympathy and support from around the world. Viewers were particularly moved by Mr. Ko’s heartbreaking recollection of Erin’s final words, a simple “See you later, Daddy and Mommy,” a phrase now imbued with unbearable poignancy. The video of his emotional plea for justice resonated deeply, with countless individuals expressing their sorrow and condolences online. Comments such as “I had to stop watching the video, seeing this man cry like that breaks me to pieces,” and “What a tragedy… May you rest in peace, beautiful angel,” highlighted the universal impact of his grief.
Erin’s Life and Legacy
Erin, a girl of Korean descent, lived in Chile until December 2024 before relocating to Miami with her family. She was a well-rounded student at San Pedro Nolasco school in Vitacura, Chile, known for her warmth, dedication to her studies, and active participation in school life. In Miami, she embraced her new life, attending Nautilus Middle School and thriving in extracurricular activities, including volleyball and swimming. Fluent in Spanish, English, and Korean, she was also learning Japanese, a testament to her intelligence and curiosity. The school released a statement commemorating her life and her contributions to their community.
The Other Victim: Mila Yankelevich
Seven-year-old Mila Yankelevich, granddaughter of renowned Argentine producer Cris Morena, also perished in the accident. Mila, a participant in the Miami Youth Sailing Foundation’s summer camp, was remembered by her grandmother with a poignant video montage set to the song “Todo Todo” from the popular Argentine show “Chiquititas.” The juxtaposition of the joyful music and the devastating loss served as a stark reminder of the preciousness of life.
The Accident and its Aftermath
The accident occurred around 11:15 a.m. on Monday, July 28th, when a 60-foot barge collided with the 17-foot sailboat carrying five children and a 19-year-old instructor. According to reports, the instructor had no opportunity to avoid the impact. The autopsy confirmed that both girls died from accidental drowning. Two other children, aged 8 and 11, remain hospitalized in critical condition. The Chilean Consulate in Miami issued a statement expressing its condolences and shared the nation’s grief with the families of the victims.
A Call for Justice
Mr. Ko’s interview wasn’t just an expression of grief; it was a powerful plea for justice. He expressed the unbearable pain of losing his only child and his desperate need for answers to prevent future tragedies. His words, delivered in Spanish with English subtitles, resonated deeply with viewers around the world: “Two girls are gone, and two other children are in critical condition. This can’t happen.” His family’s public statement echoed his plea for accountability while also requesting privacy during their period of immense sorrow. The family’s heartfelt desire for answers and their call for justice reflect a sentiment shared by countless people who were touched by this heartbreaking tragedy. The investigation into the cause of the accident is underway, and the families await answers that may never fully alleviate their pain, but may help prevent similar tragedies in the future.
