Three Undocumented Immigrants Die in Florida Airboat Accident

A tragic accident involving an airboat capsizing in a Florida canal has resulted in the deaths of three undocumented immigrants, two from Guatemala and one from Mexico. The incident occurred on the afternoon of June 15, 2026, near the Kissimmee River in Highlands County. Preliminary reports indicate the airboat overturned and began taking on water in a deep section of the canal.

Seven men were reportedly on board the airboat when it began to sink. Four managed to reach the shore safely. Search teams were deployed to find the remaining three individuals. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) later confirmed that the three missing occupants had died. The FWC is leading the investigation into the cause of the capsizing.

The Highlands County Sheriff's Office extended its condolences to the families and friends of the victims. The FWC is working to determine the circumstances that led to the airboat overturning. Airboat operators in the area expressed shock, with one long-time operator describing it as one of the worst incidents he had heard of in his two decades of experience on the river.

While the investigation is ongoing, the FWC is focused on understanding the factors contributing to the tragedy. The accident has drawn attention from residents and visitors alike, highlighting the dangers that can be associated with watercraft operations in the region.