The mother of the victim of a fatal accident involving a boat being driven by DJ Laz has filed suit against the popular radio personality. Maricel Valdez is seeking damages following the death of her 23-year-old son Ernesto Hernandez that names Laz (real named Lazaro Mendez), Voli Spirits, Park Street Imports, and Plantation Boat Mart and Marina as defendants.
See also: DJ Laz Driving Boat That Killed Man Who Got Caught in Propeller
On Sunday, Laz held a boating party on Nixon Sandbar off of Key Biscayne in order to promote Voli Vodka, a low calorie vodka co-owned by Pitbull. His 40-foot power boat got stuck on the sandbar and several people tried to dislodge the vessel. Hernandez ended up behind the boat and got caught in the propellers. He was airlifted to a hospital but later pronounced dead.
Laz is said to be cooperating fully with the investigation. He voluntarily gave a blood sample to investigators, though the toxicology reports could take weeks to come back.
He also released the following statement on Facebook this week:
"I am incredibly distraught over the unfortunate accident that occurred yesterday at Nixon Beach. My family and I send our heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of Ernesto Hernandez; they are in our thoughts and prayers. I have and will continue to fully cooperate with investigators during this time."
Laz has not been charged, but charges could be forthcoming depending on the results of the investigation.
Follow Miami New Times on Facebook and Twitter @MiamiNewTimes.
