The tragic death of 15-year-old ballerina Ella Riley Adler in a hit-and-run boat crash in Miami has left her family and community devastated. Ella’s father, Matthew Adler, shared in a heartfelt letter read at her funeral that she possessed the best qualities of both her parents and that her death robbed her of the many achievements she could have accomplished in her life. Mourners gathered at Temple Beth Sholom in Miami Beach to pay their respects to Ella, a talented dancer who was a freshman at Ransom Everglades School and a member of the Miami City Ballet.
Ella’s impact on those around her was evident as friends and family remembered her as a star and a force of nature. Rabbi Jonathan Berkun spoke at the funeral, urging everyone to remember Ella’s vibrant spirit and the love she shared with those around her. Despite the pain of her untimely death, Ella’s friend spoke of her passion for ballet and the performing arts, as well as her dreams of becoming the president of the United States. Ella’s sister, Adalynn, also shared a touching letter expressing her love for her sister and the lasting memory she will hold in her heart.
The Miami City Ballet also paid tribute to Ella, describing her as an integral part of their family and highlighting her kindness, warmth, and infectious joy. The emotional funeral service concluded with a slideshow of photos and videos of Ella, accompanied by Rihanna’s song “Diamonds in the Sky,” bringing many to tears. Ella’s death has prompted an outpouring of support from the community, with authorities offering a reward for information leading to the arrest of the person responsible for the hit-and-run boat crash.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission is currently investigating the incident and has released a description of the boat involved in the crash. The boat is described as a center-console craft with a light blue hull and multiple white outboard engines, possibly with blue or dark blue bottom paint. As the search for the suspect continues, Ella’s family and friends are left to mourn the loss of a bright and talented young woman whose memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. Despite the tragedy of her death, Ella’s spirit and passion for life will be remembered and cherished by those who were touched by her presence.
