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NewsWSVN 7 News MiamiAugust 16, 2026Miami-Dade

Fort Lauderdale police arrest boat captain following multi-vessel collision at Bahia Mar

Fort Lauderdale Police and Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission officials arrested Michael Binder after he allegedly crashed his boat into multiple vessels and a dock at the Bahia Mar Yachting Center. Witnesses reported the incident early Saturday morning, with video footage capturing the collisions and a bystander pointing a firearm at the boat driver to attempt to stop the vessel.

public safetyboatinglaw enforcementFort Lauderdale
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Why It Matters

The incident resulted in property damage to multiple private vessels and a public-access dock, leading to a police investigation and the arrest of the boat operator.

Key Facts

  • Fort Lauderdale Police and Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission responded to reports of a drunk boater at Bahia Mar Yachting Center early Saturday morning.
  • Michael Binder was identified as the boat driver involved in the collisions.
  • Police completed a 'not in custody' probable cause arrest form against Binder.
  • The incident involved collisions with multiple boats and a dock.
  • A bystander was recorded pointing a firearm at the boat driver during the incident.
  • The boat operated by Binder sustained visible damage, including shattered glass and missing fiberglass.
  • The total number of damaged boats remains unconfirmed as of Sunday.
  • Witnesses and boat owners assisted in cleaning up debris at the scene.

Who's Mentioned

personMichael Binder“The boat captain arrested following the collision incident.”organizationFort Lauderdale Police“Responding law enforcement agency.”locationBahia Mar Yachting Center“The location where the boat collisions occurred.”organizationFlorida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission“Responding state agency.”other911“Emergency service contacted by witnesses.”