The family of a 15-year-old girl who was killed during a hit-and-run boat incident have released a statement about their ‘special girl’.
A ‘vessel of interest’ is now in the custody of the authorities after it is believed to have been involved in the collision of Ella Riley Adler in Biscayne Bay, Florida, on 11 May.
According to investigators, the young girl from Miami Beach was water skiing when she fell into the water, still being towed by the boat attached to her line.
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She was then struck by another vessel which 'did not stop' after hitting her.
Ella was rushed to hospital after the accident but tragically passed away due to her injuries.
Police have said the owner of the boat is cooperating with authorities.
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Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) Chairman Rodney Barreto said: “Our community suffered a great loss this Mother’s Day weekend.
"As Chairman of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, I would like to thank all our officers and those from various law enforcement agencies who have worked and continue to work tirelessly on this investigation.
"The FWC and its officers have called in additional resources from other parts of the state and have worked around the clock to find the vessel involved in the accident.
"I am pleased to report that we have a vessel in custody that matches the description given by witnesses and the investigation is ongoing.
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“As a father and grandfather, my heart is broken for the Adler family. Ella’s death is devastating for her family, friends and the community at large. The FWC and our partner law enforcement agencies will not stop until we have all the answers and the case is solved.”
Ella’s family also released a statement to share their grief as well as asking the public for privacy.
They said: "The world lost a star this weekend.
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"Ella was beautiful and shined brightly. In her 15 years, she gave us more light than we could have ever dreamed.
"While we cope with this unspeakable tragedy, we ask the public to give us our privacy as we mourn.
"We also wish to extend our gratitude to law enforcement for their hard work and commitment to helping bring some closure to this horrific loss."
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In an additional statement, they said: “We are honoured that the First Lady paid a shiva call to our family during this time of immense pain. We are touched by their support and love and we are proud to call the President and First Lady our friends for over 40 years.”
The Adler family's attorney confirmed to NBC 6 that Ella's parents were visited by First Lady Dr. Jill Biden.
At this time, no charges have been brought against the boat owner and an investigation is still underway.
Tyla has contacted the FWC for further updates.
Britt Jones