American Woman Dies, Another Suffers 'Double Amputation' After Bahamas Boat Explodes
July 2 2018, Updated 11:54 a.m. ET
A tropical vacation turned tragedy for an American family when their tour boat in the Bahamas exploded, killing one woman and injuring several others.
Stefanie Schaffer, 22, an "outgoing" dancer from Rutland, Vermont, lost both of her legs in the fire and suffered serious internal injuries, according to reports. She is currently in a medically-induced coma in a Nassau, Bahamas hospital.
Her sister Brooke, mother Stacey and stepdad Paul Bender were also on the boat with the young woman. Stacey is also in the hospital being treated for her injuries.
According to the GoFundMe page started by the family, Stefanie "sustained life threatening injuries including a double amputation and remains in critical condition." Her mom, Stacey "suffered multiples broken bones and internal injuries."
Stefanie's family members spoke to reporters, saying they were heartbroken by the tragedy, and can't imagine how the girl will feel when she wakes up to realize her legs are gone.
The incident occurred in island of Exuma around 9:00am this Saturday, June 30. Twelve other passengers were on board.
Four others who were injured during the explosion were immediately flown to Florida to be hospitalized, but Stefani and Stacey's conditions were too critical, so they had to be treated in the Bahamas.
The name of the woman who died has not been released.
Exumas and Ragged Island MP Chester Cooper said in a statement: "This is a sad day for Exuma and a sad day for our American friends. We are saddened and our hearts our hurting, but we will get through this together. Your prayers, as always, are needed and appreciated."
The tour boat explosion is still under investigation, according to reports.
Stay with RadarOnline.com for updates.
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