Ella Riley Adler : “Florida hit-and-run tragedy: Remembering 15-year-old dancer”

Following a fatal hit-and-run boat crash in South Florida, the community is reeling from the tragic loss of a 15-year-old girl, Ella Riley Adler. The young teen was struck and killed by a boat while waterskiing in Biscayne Bay over the weekend.

Ella was a well-rounded student and active member of the Ransom Everglades School dance team, Jewish Student Association, and speech and debate team. She also regularly performed with the Miami City Ballet, showcasing her talent in productions such as George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker.

In response to Adler’s untimely passing, Ransom Everglades Head of School Rachel Rodriguez expressed heartfelt condolences, stating, “Our hearts are broken and our community has been devastated by this tragedy. Ella shined in our classrooms and on our stages, and she embodied the mission of Ransom Everglades School.”

A funeral service was held at Temple Beth Shalom for Adler, where friends and family gathered to remember the beloved young performer. Family friend Loren Pierson described Ella as a “special little girl” with a bright future ahead.

Students who knew Adler also shared their grief, with one classmate, Miles Gelber, reflecting on her kindness and friendly nature. The Miami City Ballet, where Ella was a cherished student, released a statement expressing deep sorrow over her passing.

Witnesses to the tragic accident provided valuable information to authorities, including a photo of the immediate aftermath showing the yacht from which Adler was waterskiing. Officials are searching for a light blue center console vessel with three or four white outboard engines, believed to be the boat responsible for the fatal collision.

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is offering a reward of up to £20,000 for information leading to an arrest in connection with the incident. FWC officials confirmed that Ella was not actively waterskiing at the time of the collision, emphasizing the need for answers in this heartbreaking case.