Three Dead After Speedboat Capsizes Near Fort Myers; Survivor Faces Serious Injuries

Three people — Craig Millett, Brenna Millett and Rebecca Knight — have died after a 39-foot speedboat capsized on the Caloosahatchee River near Fort Myers on Nov. 29. A fourth passenger, Neal Kirby, survived but suffered life-threatening injuries and underwent surgery on Dec. 1.

The Lee County Marine Emergency Response Team (MERT) reported the incident occurred around 4 p.m. when a catamaran-style vessel flipped and ejected its four occupants. Rescue crews recovered three victims from the water that evening; a multiagency search located the fourth person the next day.

Witness Accounts and Possible High Speed

Witnesses told local media the boat appeared to be traveling at high speed and may have been racing another vessel when it capsized. Simon Tusha, who said he was leading the group in his own boat, said he turned and saw the craft flip. Bystanders jumped in to help, though several described confusion amid the sudden chaos.

Survivor’s Condition

The lone survivor, Neal Kirby, was found unresponsive in the water. According to friends and first responders, CPR and rapid airway clearing saved his life. Medical updates indicate Kirby sustained multiple serious injuries, including six broken ribs, a broken clavicle, a shattered pelvis and significant lung damage; he underwent surgery on Dec. 1 and remains in recovery.

Community Remembers The Victims

Family Initiative, a nonprofit supporting families of children with autism and in the child-welfare system, paid tribute to the Milletts and Knight, saying the trio "meant the world to our organization" and praising their generosity and spirit. Bedard Realty, where Brenna worked, described the Milletts as having "a true zest for life" and noted their active roles in both Florida and Maine communities.

“Their service, generosity, and unwavering belief in our mission inspired us every single day,” Family Initiative wrote.

Investigation Underway

Authorities coordinated with federal, state and local agencies during the search and recovery operation and said investigators continue to examine the circumstances of the capsize, including reports of high speed and possible racing. No official determination about the cause has been released.