Ella Adler’s family speaks out as hit-and-run investigation continues – NBC 6 South Florida

With a “vessel of interest” in the custody of investigators in the case of a fatal hit-and-run in Biscayne Bay, the family of Ella Riley Adler released a statement Tuesday evening regarding the tragedy.

“The world lost a star this weekend,” the statement said. “Ella was beautiful and radiantly beamed. In her 15 years she has given us more light than we could have ever imagined. As we come to terms with this unspeakable tragedy, we ask the public to allow us privacy in our grief. We want that too.” We thank law enforcement for their hard work and dedication in helping to bring an end to this terrible loss.”

An attorney for the Adler family confirmed to NBC6 that the parents of First Lady Dr. Jill Biden was visited.

“We are honored that the First Lady made a Shiva call to our family during this time of immense pain. We are touched by their support and love and are proud to call the President and First Lady our friends for over 40 years,” the Adler family said in an additional statement.

Community support for the Adler family was strong, with many recognizing Ella’s talents on stage and her dedication to her Jewish faith.

Melissa White, the mother of another child who was on the boat from which Adler waterskied, made the comments during a meeting Tuesday evening in the village of Key Biscayne.

“I am here to thank you for being a community and supporting our family this weekend,” she said. “…For the girls who had to witness it, I hope they carry on and continue to bless Ella’s memory.”

A boat matching the description investigators were looking for was in the care of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), authorities said Tuesday. Investigators said the boat’s owner is cooperating with the investigation.

The boat was seen being towed away for analysis, which could cause a significant disruption to the investigation into the incident, which occurred near Nixon Beach the day before Mother’s Day.

FWC Commissioner George Reynaud emphasized ongoing efforts to solve the case.

“FWC and our partner law enforcement agencies will not stop until we have all the answers and the case is solved,” Reynaud said.

According to FWC, the impoundment of the boat followed tips from eyewitnesses.