Miami Real Estate Figure Charged with Felony Homicide After Boating Accident

Overview of the Incident

On Labor Day 2022, tragedy struck during a boating accident off Boca Chita when 17-year-old Lucy Fernandez lost her life. The operator of the 29-foot Robalo boat, George Pino, a notable name in Miami’s real estate sector, now faces serious legal repercussions. Prosecutors recently upgraded his charges to felony homicide following new evidence brought forward by witnesses.

Details of the Boating Accident

Collision and Consequences

• Date of Incident: Labor Day 2022
• Location: Bocca Chita Channel
• Casualties:
  • Lucy Fernandez (17) – deceased
  • Katy Puig (18) – sustained permanent disabilities

Pino was navigating through the bay when his boat collided with a concrete channel marker, causing all aboard—including his wife and 12 teenage girls—to be thrown into the water.

Initial Charges and Alcohol Involvement

Initially charged with three counts of careless boating, Pino faced misdemeanors, but those charges were soon dropped as the investigation unfolded. A key witness, firefighter Matthew Smiley from Miami-Dade Fire Rescue, reported that Pino exhibited signs of intoxication. That day, Pino acknowledged that he had consumed "two beers," yet he declined to undergo a sobriety test, citing the absence of his attorney.

According to a Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) report, Pino attributed the accident to the wake of a larger vessel, stating that this caused him to lose control. However, discrepancies arose when GPS data from Pino’s boat indicated he was heading directly toward the channel marker, suggesting a lack of evasive action.

Witness Testimony and Evidence

New Developments in the Case

The investigation’s turning point came when firefighter Matthew Smiley reported details emphasizing the role of alcohol in the incident. This prompted the State Attorney’s Office to reconsider charges. Specific points include:

• 61 empty alcohol bottles were discovered on Pino’s vessel the day after the incident.
• Contradictory GPS Data: It showed Pino’s boat was alone on the water and heading straight for the marker, contradicting his claims.

Family’s Pursuit of Justice

Joel Denaro, attorney for Fernandez’s family, stated:

“A man came forward from Fire Rescue, who was a critical witness, and believed that alcohol was a factor… Complete closure; not yet, but we’re on our way.”

Denaro mentions that the delay in prosecution has allowed more witnesses to emerge with crucial information, transforming the narrative from a careless act to a reckless one.

Legal Implications for Pino

If convicted on the new felony homicide charge, George Pino could face a prison sentence of up to 15 years. His lawyers have not responded to inquiries regarding this serious development.

Conclusion

This tragic incident underscores the importance of safety measures while boating and the consequences of reckless behavior. The case continues to unfold, representing a significant moment in Miami’s ongoing discussions about accountability on the water. For further information on boating laws and safety, please refer to resources such as the Coast Guard and State Wildlife Agencies.

Stay tuned for updates as this case progresses.