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Dominican Republic boat explosion leaves British teen dead
New York Post • • world
Key Points:
- Abigail "Abbie" Lainton, a 16-year-old UK teen cheerleader, died from severe burns and septic shock after a tour boat exploded near Cotubanama National Park in the Dominican Republic on July 27.
- The pleasure cruiser, reportedly overpacked with around 35 tourists, caught fire and exploded while returning from Saona Island, injuring 24 people including Abbie’s two siblings.
- The explosion is believed to have been caused by a mechanical failure, with passengers reporting a strong gasoline smell before the blast.
- Abbie was hospitalized in La Romana but succumbed to her injuries three days later; her death was ruled due to septic shock from septicemia and pulmonary edema.
- A GoFundMe campaign for Abbie’s family has raised nearly 90% of its $40,000 goal, and the boat involved, Costa Romantica, has been removed from booking platforms following the accident.
