Sydney businessman Shane Florio, 46, died after his $700,000 speedboat struck a moored yacht on Parramatta River at Hunters Hill, October 7, 2025. Image credit 7News.
Sydney speedboat crash prompts police investigation
Authorities said Florio, 46, was operating a $700,000 high-powered vessel on the Parramatta River when it struck a moored yacht near Hunters Hill late Sunday night.
The collision caused the yacht to sink instantly and inflicted severe structural damage to the speedboat’s hull, investigators confirmed.
Police stated that despite internal injuries, Florio and his 25-year-old female passenger managed to swim ashore before collapsing on a nearby property.
Emergency responders transported Florio to Royal North Shore Hospital, where he later died from catastrophic head and internal injuries.
The woman, whose identity remains undisclosed, was treated for serious injuries and discharged from hospital on Monday, police said.
NSW Police assess speed and mechanical failure in Sydney speedboat crash
Acting Inspector Ryan Spong of the NSW Police Marine Area Command said investigators are still determining whether excessive speed contributed to the collision.
“There’s extensive damage to the front of the vessel, and the impact was so severe that it immediately sank the yacht that was on the mooring,” Inspector Spong said.
He confirmed there was no evidence that drugs or alcohol played a role in the fatal incident.
“You know that indicates the collision was quite intense,” Spong added.
The investigation will include a forensic reconstruction of the crash scene and mechanical inspections of both vessels, police noted.
Family mourns businessman killed in Sydney speedboat crash
Relatives said Florio was a devoted father of three and the managing director of Home Demolitions, a Sydney-based company specializing in property redevelopment.
Family members described him as “a man who lived life to the fullest” and someone deeply committed to his children and extended family.
His uncle Johnny Florio posted a tribute online, writing, “It’s with the heaviest of hearts, my friend, nephew and brother Shane Thomas Florio passes away last night. He definitely lived life to the fullest.”
“We are all in shock and still can’t believe it’s true. Heaven has a new angel. Fly my brother fly,” he added.
Friends and co-workers also shared emotional tributes across social media, remembering Florio’s energy and generosity.
“You were there for me in my dark time, and I’m here for your family now,” one colleague wrote. “Thank you for being my boss, the joker of the party, and most of all my friend.”
Tributes pour in after Sydney speedboat crash
Another friend described Florio as “a unit and a half who loved to take life to the max.”
Others recalled how he often shared videos and photos of his children visiting worksites with him, highlighting his dedication to family and business alike.
Tributes continued to flood social platforms as news of his death spread throughout Sydney’s business and construction circles.
Police said the fatal crash was among several marine-related incidents during the New South Wales October long weekend.
“If you’re out on the water, abstain from drugs and alcohol, wear a lifejacket, slow down and know your safety equipment,” Inspector Spong advised.
Boating community calls for renewed safety awareness after Sydney speedboat crash
Marine authorities urged recreational boaters to exercise caution amid renewed discussions over safety regulations on inland waterways.
Officials said education and compliance remain key to reducing accidents involving private vessels and luxury crafts.
Data from Transport for NSW indicates that speeding, distraction, and mechanical faults are among the leading causes of boating fatalities across the state.
The department said increased patrols and inspections will continue over the upcoming summer boating season.
Authorities have also reminded owners of high-powered boats to undertake routine maintenance and adhere strictly to maritime speed limits.
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Florio’s death, police said, underscores the unpredictable nature of recreational boating when safety standards are compromised.
A report will be prepared for the coroner to determine the exact cause of the accident.
