A family who were among the victims of the crash between two airboat in the Florida Everglades gathered to address the media alongside their attorneys on Friday.
The collision happened off Tamiami Trail in Collier County on Dec. 13 at around 3:15 p.m. south of U.S. 41 between the 74 and 75 mile markers, Collier County Sheriff’s Office officials said.
Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission officials said one airboat was carrying 20 people and the other 13 people when they collided.
A total of 16 passengers were taken to local hospitals for treatment, FWC officials said. Their ages and conditions weren’t released.
Multiple agencies responded, including Broward Sheriff Fire Rescue air rescue. Footage showed a large law enforcement response at the scene.
According a news release, David Tolson, 39; his wife Pershonda, 41; and their children were visiting Naples from the Bay Area in California last week for a football and cheer event.
“The Tolson family, along with several other California families who participated in the same sporting event, opted to take a tour this past Friday on Wooten’s Everglades Airboat Tours in the town of Ochopee, just south of Naples,” the release continues.
In the crash, “Pershonda suffered a severe concussion, multiple fractures and other serious injuries. She remains hospitalized in Florida. Her husband and family remain in Florida with her.”
This is a developing story. Refresh for updates.