DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA. (WSVN) - Victims are recovering in a South Florida hospital after a tragic boat explosion in the Bahamas.
The incident took place during a charter boat ride on Saturday. Officials said the explosion left 11 people hurt and one woman dead.
The deceased woman, identified as Malika Jackson, was out with her husband, Tiran Jackson, who was also badly injured. The couple from Chattanooga, Tennessee, had been celebrating their 15th wedding anniversary.
“As she was getting ready to leave for the trip, she did call me to let me know that they were at the airport and getting ready to leave,” said Malvin Grimes, the victim’s father, “My last text to her was to have a good time.”
The woman’s husband was flown to Broward Health North with severe injuries.
“Traumatic amputation of left ankle with severe damage to the soft tissue, to bones, to arteries and nerves,” said Dr. Igor Nichiporenko.
Tiran also suffered from a broken collarbone and fractured lower back. A GoFundMe page has been set-up to help raise money for the Jacksons which can be found here.
As of Wednesday afternoon, Tiran’s condition has improved to fair.
Another passenger, 22-year-old Stefanie Schaffer of Vermont, lost part of both her legs.
Schaffer has been in a coma since the accident with a brain injury and has undergone five hours of surgery, including having parts of her legs amputated. As of Wednesday afternoon, Schaffer remains in critical condition.
“The amount of injuries she’s suffered is nothing secondary to a war zone,” Dr. Michael Parra. “She had a head injury, chest trauma, abdominal and pelvic trauma, and she was found to be in multiple shock stages.”
Schaffer’s family released a statement regarding her situation that read, “Stefanie has a long road ahead of her, but we are confident she will overcome because she has the heart of a fighter.”
Other victims had to be transported to Clearwater by the Coast Guard.
Speaking to the Daily Mail, the owner of the tour boat company offered condolences to the victims.
“We’ve been operating for more than 10 years … We operate in a very safe manner. This is an unfortunate accident … Our hearts and prayers go out to the victims of this event,” said Clayton Patterson Smith.
In addition to trying to heal from his own injuries, Tiran has another reason to try to stay strong.
“Malika’s first words would have been ‘take care of my son,'” said Denise Smith, the victim’s aunt.
Nichiporenko said Tiran made a phone call to his son to explain what happened.
“It’s very tragic,” he said.
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