MIAMI, FL – The City of Miami has officially recognized the extraordinary resilience of Katerina “Katy” Puig, a young woman still navigating a challenging recovery journey following a devastating boat crash nearly three years ago. In a formal proclamation, the city designated Thursday, July 10, 2025, as “Katy Puig Day,” honoring her unwavering spirit in the face of catastrophic injuries.
Signed by Mayor Francis Suarez, the proclamation highlights Puig’s courage and determination, offering a moment of city-wide acknowledgment for a personal struggle that has deeply resonated with the community. The honor serves not only as recognition of her arduous path to recovery but also as a tribute to the enduring human capacity for strength amidst tragedy.
The Tragic Incident on Biscayne Bay
The roots of Katy Puig’s ordeal trace back to the evening of September 4, 2022. On that date, a tragic incident unfolded on the waters of Biscayne Bay, forever altering the lives of several young people and their families. The crash involved a 29-foot Robalo vessel, reportedly operated by Doral real estate developer George Pino.
According to official accounts, the boat collided with a fixed channel marker at a high rate of speed, estimated to be nearly 50 mph. The impact was violent and immediate, resulting in the ejection of all occupants from the vessel into the dark waters of the bay. The scene was one of chaos and urgent peril, requiring immediate rescue efforts.
Katy’s Long Road to Recovery
Katy Puig, who was just 17 years old at the time of the crash, sustained severe, life-altering injuries. Prior to the accident, she was known as a promising soccer player, embodying youthful vitality and athletic potential. The crash, however, inflicted significant brain injuries, fundamentally altering her physical capabilities and future trajectory.
Now 20 years old, Katy’s recovery has been a demanding and ongoing process. She currently uses a wheelchair as a result of the injuries sustained in the crash and is actively engaged in physical therapy. This therapy is a critical component of her daily life, representing a continuous effort to regain function and adapt to the profound physical challenges she faces. Her journey has become a powerful testament to perseverance, inspiring many who have followed her story.
Remembering Luciana “Lucy” Fernandez
The tragedy of the Biscayne Bay crash also carried an immense loss of life. Among the occupants of the boat was Luciana “Lucy” Fernandez, a close friend and classmate of Katy Puig. Lucy, who was also 17 years old, attended Our Lady of Lourdes Academy alongside Katy.
Heartbreakingly, Lucy succumbed to her injuries the day after the crash, on September 5, 2022. Her death sent shockwaves through the Our Lady of Lourdes Academy community and beyond, adding a layer of profound grief to the already devastating event. The memory of Lucy remains intrinsically linked to the crash, a poignant reminder of the high cost of the incident and the lives forever changed.
Legal Fallout and Ongoing Case
The investigation into the crash led to legal consequences for the boat’s operator. George Pino, identified as the individual operating the 29-foot Robalo at the time of the collision, was subsequently charged by authorities. He faces a charge of felony vessel homicide.
Vessel homicide is a serious charge under Florida law, typically involving the death of a human being caused by the negligent operation of a vessel. Court records indicate that George Pino has entered a plea of not guilty in the ongoing legal proceedings related to the crash. The case continues to move through the judicial system, with its outcome closely watched by those affected by the tragedy.
A Community Rallies Behind Katy
Katy Puig’s journey has galvanized significant support from the Miami community, her family, and her peers from Our Lady of Lourdes Academy. While the City of Miami’s proclamation on July 10, 2025, is a formal recognition, it reflects a broader wave of empathy and admiration for her strength.
Her story highlights the long-term impact of such accidents, extending far beyond the immediate headlines. The commitment of her family and the dedication of her medical team in facilitating her physical therapy underscore the immense resources and emotional fortitude required for her continued recovery. Her public acknowledgment by the city serves to bring renewed attention to her ongoing challenges and her inspiring fight.
An Enduring Spirit of Hope
The designation of “Katy Puig Day” on July 10, 2025, is more than a symbolic gesture; it is an affirmation of life and resilience in the aftermath of immense suffering. It calls upon the residents of Miami to recognize and draw inspiration from Katy’s indomitable spirit as she continues her difficult path towards recovery.
While the physical and emotional scars of the September 4, 2022, crash remain, Katy Puig’s story is one that continues to inspire. It serves as a powerful reminder of the fragility of life on the water, the devastating consequences of negligence, and the incredible strength of the human spirit in overcoming seemingly insurmountable obstacles. The city’s honor ensures her perseverance is publicly acknowledged and celebrated, offering a beacon of hope to others facing their own battles.
