Florida Tubing Tragedy: One Child Dead, Two Injured After Collision with Dock on Star Lake

A devastating accident has rocked the quiet community of Hawthorne, Florida, after a summer day of fun turned fatal on Tuesday, June 17, 2025. According to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) and the Putnam County Sheriff’s Office, three children were thrown from an inflatable tube being pulled by a personal watercraft—reportedly a Sea-Doo jet ski—when it collided with a dock on Star Lake, near the Putnam-Alachua County line.

The three children, identified only by age—8, 10, and 11 years old—were enjoying a tubing ride while visiting their grandparents for summer break. What should have been a joyful family outing quickly became every parent’s worst nightmare. Authorities say the jet ski pulling their tube lost control, causing the tube to crash directly into a dock. All three children were ejected upon impact.

Jordan, the 11 year old girl, tragically died at the scene. Laila, the 8 year old girl, sustained severe injuries and has already undergone surgery, with more expected. Brylee, the 9 year old girl, escaped with minor bruises but is now mourning the loss of her cousin.

Florida consistently ranks among the highest in the nation for recreational boating accidents. According to the FWC’s 2024 Boating Accident Statistical Report, many of these incidents involve:

• Personal watercraft (PWCs) such as Jet Skis and Sea-Doos
• Lack of supervision or safety planning
• Excessive speeds and reckless operation
• Inexperience of operators
• Failure to use safety equipment like life jackets

While tubing is a popular summer activity, it poses significant risks, especially when conducted at high speeds, near fixed structures like docks, or without proper safety protocols in place.

Legal Options for Families After a Tubing or Jet Ski Accident

Families impacted by serious water-related accidents may have grounds for a wrongful death or personal injury claim. These claims can help recover compensation for:

• Medical bills
• Funeral and burial expenses
• Emotional trauma
• Pain and suffering
• Future loss of support and companionship

If negligence played a role—either by the operator, owner, or other responsible parties—a civil lawsuit may offer both accountability and financial relief.

At Flanagan & Bodenheimer Injury and Wrongful Death Law Firm, we understand the overwhelming pain that families face after losing a child or watching a loved one suffer in a preventable accident. These cases are emotionally devastating and legally complex, especially when dealing with boating laws and insurance policies.

As summer unfolds across Florida’s lakes and waterways, let this tragedy serve as a reminder: recreational water activities are not without risk. Whether you’re a parent, boat operator, or property owner, we all share a responsibility to keep children safe.