A California-based youth football and cheer group were among those aboard two airboats that crashed in Ochopee Friday, injuring 24 people.
According to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission, the crash happened at 3:15 p.m., when a 24’ Alumitech airboat with one operator and 13 passengers on board and a 25’ Alumitech airboat with one operator and 20 passengers on board had a head-on collision.
At least 24 passengers were injured, according to FWC, and 16 were transported to local hospitals for treatment.
Wooten’s Everglades Airboat Tours operated the tour.
The youth team on the boat from Mega Football and Cheer is called the 8U Mega Boyz from Antioch, California. The kids are ages 8 and under, along with coaches and chaperones.
In a post on Facebook , the organization said," We're relieved to share that as of this morning, everyone is in stable condition. However, a couple of our cherished parents face a road to recovery. We're grateful for the strength and resilience of our MEGA community during this challenging time.
We ask for your prayers, positive thoughts, and support for those affected and their families. Our MEGA family has always come together in times of need, and we know your love and encouragement will mean so much to those recovering ."
A person with Mega Football and Cheer said half of the team returned to California, while a few families remained in Florida.
The team was in Florida for the Nationals.
Wooten’s Everglades Airboat Tours said in a statement, "All of us at Wooten’s offer our sincere sympathies to everyone involved and wish them a speedy recovery.
This is a developing story and will be updated.