Ella Riley Adler, a 15-year-old ballerina from Miami, died in a boat crash while water skiing off Nixon Beach, Key Biscayne, on a Saturday afternoon. The incident occurred during a birthday celebration with friends. According to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), the boat involved in the crash fled the scene, and authorities are actively seeking the driver. Witnesses described the escaping boat as white to light blue with a blue or dark blue bottom, potentially having up to four wide board engines.
Ella, who was in the water wearing a life vest and ski boards, was part of the Miami City Ballet and had performed in over 100 shows, including The Nutcracker. She attended the private Ransom Everglades School in Miami Beach, where she was an active student involved in the Jewish Student Association and speech and debate team. Ella's family, mourning her loss, highlighted her vibrant presence and passion for dance.
FWC is offering a $20,000 reward for information leading to the arrest of the boat driver responsible for this hit-and-run. Miami-Dade Crime Stoppers contributed $5,000 to this reward. The investigation into the incident continues as officials and the community seek justice for Ella's untimely death.