Family questions safety of Florida boat ramp following man’s death.

In a tragic incident highlighting the potential dangers of inadequate signage and safety measures at boat ramp areas, Brandon Simpson, a 28-year-old resident of Fort Lauderdale, died after his vehicle plunged into the New River early on April 28, 2023. Simpson, originally from New Hampshire, had moved to Florida in August 2021, pursuing his dream of living in a sun-soaked environment renowned for its beaches. He had settled into a fulfilling job at a local restaurant, enjoying his nights working while spending his days basking in the sun.

Simpson’s final outing was a celebration of his birthday. Shortly after 2 a.m., while driving home, he mistakenly turned onto a boat ramp near the Avenue of the Arts Bridge. His family reported that he had conversed with his younger brother, Tyler Simpson, just ten minutes prior to the accident, during which he appeared to be in good spirits. Tragically, the car was engulfed by the swift river current, making rescue efforts challenging. Emergency divers recovered Simpson from the submerged vehicle, but he was pronounced dead shortly thereafter at Broward Health Medical Center.

Following the incident, family members expressed concern over the safety measures in place at the Cooley’s Landing Marina area. They believe the absence of barriers or gates at the boat ramp significantly increases the risk of such unfortunate events. His mother remarked on the need for improved signage that clearly delineates the roadways from the boat ramps, suggesting that the area resembles an on-ramp to the highway, which could mislead drivers unfamiliar with the site.

This incident is not isolated; reports indicate that at least four similar crashes have occurred at Cooley’s Landing over the last two decades. Notably, a similar accident claimed the life of Wilton Manors resident Lisa Hayden-Gordon ten years ago. In the aftermath of her tragedy, city officials installed safety measures such as rumble strips, reflectors, and warning signs, yet family members believe more is required to ensure public safety.

Simpson’s family described him as laid-back yet responsible, an individual who transcended life’s challenges and encouraged those around him to do the same. As the eldest sibling, he demonstrated protectiveness over his younger siblings, particularly his sister, Lauren. His brother Tyler shared a fond memory of Simpson’s ability to approach life with a calm demeanor, often opting for relaxation and positivity in overwhelming moments.

As community members reflect on this tragedy, Simpson’s family hopes that their loss will spur improvements in safety protocols at Cooley’s Landing to prevent similar incidents in the future, ensuring that no other families endure the heartbreak they have experienced.