Man arrested in what FWC investigator says was hit-and-run boat crash off Miami

PUBLISHED Sep 12, 2026, 11:39 AM ET

A Miami man was arrested following an investigation by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission into a late-night hit-and-run boat crash in Biscayne Bay that left a passenger seriously injured. Juan Carlos Romero faces multiple felony charges, including leaving the scene of a boat crash causing serious bodily injury, reckless boating, and tampering with physical evidence. The incident occurred at approximately 2:45 a.m. on August 16 when Romero's 36-foot boat allegedly overtook a smaller 26-foot vessel from behind, partially ramping over it. A passenger on the smaller boat sustained severe trauma, including spinal and rib fractures, bruised lungs, and a lacerated spleen requiring emergency surgery. Investigators later tracked Romero's damaged vessel to a private dock, where its right engines were concealed using trash bags and cut tape. Romero appeared in bond court, where a judge set his bond at $30,000 while defense counsel asserted his cooperation and intent to face the charges.

By Noormahi M. | JQJO News

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 23
Right Leaning:: 1
Left Leaning:: 2
Neutral:: 20

Explain Framing

Left: Emphasizes strict regulation, public safety, and accountability for reckless operators. Center: Reports official police statements, court proceedings, and factual event details neutrally. Right: Focuses on individual property rights, due process, and defense counsel arguments.