British Teen Killed in Dominican Republic Tour Boat Explosion

A 16-year-old British cheerleader, Abbie Lainton, died after a tour boat exploded off the Dominican Republic coast, amid about 24 injuries among passengers. The Costa Romantica filled with smoke before the blast near Saona Island; authorities say the incident was an accident caused by mechanical failure, with Go Paradise DR noting the vessel had been removed from booking platforms. Abbie’s body was repatriated to the UK, and a GoFundMe has been set up to support her family as tributes pour in.