TalesFromFlorida.com — Because only in the Sunshine State does a high-speed poker run turn into a real-life game of “How Many Misdemeanors Can One Guy Collect?”
Meet Reinaldo Aquit, a 48-year-old Miami Beach man who decided that navigating a 39-foot speedboat through the narrow Calda Channel was the perfect time to channel his inner Fast & Furious stunt driver. Spoiler alert: It did not end well.
The Setup:
Last November, Aquit was cruising from Miami to Key West during a Poker Run event—because nothing says “responsible boating” like gambling and high-speed turns. With seven passengers on board, he apparently thought the best way to impress his friends was to ignore every navigation rule known to man.
The Fail:
Authorities say Aquit was going full Speed Racer when he took a sharp turn like he was trying to outrun a hurricane. The boat said “NOPE” and promptly rolled over, ejecting six passengers into the water like human confetti.
One of those passengers, 28-year-old Stephanie Rodriguez of Hialeah, tragically lost her life in the crash. Four others had to be rushed to the hospital, because apparently, Aquit thought “passenger safety” was just a suggestion.
The Charges:
Aquit was arrested and hit with nine—yes, NINE—charges, including felony vessel homicide and eight misdemeanors. That’s right, folks, this guy managed to turn a leisurely boat ride into a criminal bingo card.
FWC Maj. Alberto Maza summed it up perfectly: “The tragic death of this young woman was completely avoidable.” Translation: “Dude, slow the heck down next time.”
Florida Lesson of the Day:
If you’re going to drive a boat like you’re in Grand Theft Auto: Ocean Edition, maybe don’t bring passengers. Or better yet—stick to land, where the only thing you can flip is a burger.
Stay safe out there, Florida. The ocean is not your personal stunt track.