Authorities in Florida have located a boat believed to be involved in a hit-and-run incident that tragically took the life of 15-year-old Ella Adler, who was wakeboarding in the Miami area. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) announced on Tuesday that they have apprehended a boat matching the description provided by witnesses.

The incident occurred on Saturday afternoon near Nixon Beach in Key Biscayne while Adler was wakeboarding. According to Officer George Reynaud, a spokesperson for FWC, the teenager fell into the water while being towed about a mile from shore and was awaiting assistance from her boat when another vessel struck her. Shockingly, the boat responsible for the collision did not stop.

Following an intensive search, FWC successfully located the boat on Tuesday. The owner of the vessel is said to be cooperating fully with the ongoing investigation, the FWC confirmed. FWC Chairman Rodney Barreto expressed his heartfelt condolences, stating, "As a father and grandfather, my heart is broken for the Adler family." Barreto assured the public that both FWC and other law enforcement agencies are committed to obtaining answers and solving the case.

The investigation is still ongoing, and FWC is urging anyone with information or footage related to the incident to come forward and assist with the inquiry. The boat that struck Adler has been described as a center console boat with a light blue hull, possibly featuring blue or dark blue bottom paint, and multiple white outboard engines. It is estimated to be between 30 and 40 feet in length, according to Reynaud.

In an effort to encourage cooperation and assistance, a reward of up to $20,000 is being offered in exchange for information leading to a breakthrough in the investigation. Both FWC and Miami-Dade Crime Stoppers have pledged $5,000, while Adler's family is offering an additional $10,000 reward.

Ella Adler was a student at Ransom Everglades School, where she was known for her academic excellence and various activities. The school referred to her as an "outstanding student, a wonderful dancer, and an active member of the Jewish Student Association and speech and debate team." The tragic loss of Adler has deeply impacted the community, with the school expressing their sadness and emphasizing that she embodied the mission of Ransom Everglades School.

Adler, an accomplished ballerina, had performed in more than 100 shows with the Miami City Ballet, as outlined in her obituary. Her family described her as a "star" and a "force of nature," highlighting the bright light she brought into the world during her 15 years of life.

As investigators continue their work to uncover the truth behind this heartbreaking hit-and-run incident, the community stands united in their support of the grieving Adler family.