Jeff Knight Clearwater Ferry Crash: What We Know

A tragic boating accident involving a Clearwater Ferry and a privately owned boat, captained by local businessman Jeff Knight, has left one dead and several injured. The incident, which occurred on Sunday night, has sparked a heated debate, with Knight's attorney vehemently denying accusations of a hit-and-run.

This article delves into the details surrounding the Clearwater ferry crash, examining both the official statements and the account provided by Knight's legal team. We'll analyze the key events, the ongoing investigation, and the impact on the victims' families.

The Crash and Its Aftermath

The collision occurred around 8:40 p.m. on Sunday evening near the Memorial Causeway bridge. Time-stamped video footage shows Knight's boat striking the Clearwater Ferry from behind. The impact resulted in one fatality, Jose Castro, and approximately ten injuries, several of which were classified as trauma alerts.

• Immediate Actions: Knight's attorney claims that a passenger immediately called 911 and remained on the line for nearly 12 minutes. Knight reportedly attempted to assist injured passengers, tying his boat to the ferry for stabilization and maneuvering it closer to shore.
• Departure from the Scene: The defense claims Knight left the scene because his boat was taking on water, and he feared it might sink, with an infant passenger onboard. They emphasize that he waited until first responders arrived before departing.
• Knight's Cooperation: Authorities state Knight cooperated fully, voluntarily submitting to a Breathalyzer test which showed no alcohol in his system. No charges have been filed at this time.

The video evidence is a key aspect of this case. While some publicly available footage shows Knight's boat departing, Knight's lawyer claims this footage may have been artificially brightened, possibly misleading viewers about the visibility conditions at the time of the crash.

Knight's Past and the Ongoing Investigation

Jeff Knight, owner of several St. Petersburg businesses including the popular Jannus Live music venue, has a history of run-ins with the law, mostly involving past DUI charges. While this history is relevant, it is not directly related to the current charges under investigation.

• Attorney's Claims: Knight's attorney argues that the ferry may not have had adequate lighting, and that both the crew and passengers were distracted by dolphins in the area. He is requesting access to unedited video footage to support this claim.
• Investigation Status: The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) and the United States Coast Guard are jointly investigating the incident. The investigation is focusing on determining whether Knight's departure from the scene constitutes a hit-and-run.
• Public Reaction: The incident has garnered significant public attention, generating both sympathy for the victims and strong opinions regarding Knight's actions and previous legal history.

The Victim's Family

Jose Castro, the sole fatality, is remembered by his family as a loving father and dedicated postal worker. His family is devastated by the loss and is calling for justice. They have started a GoFundMe page to assist with funeral expenses and the future care of his two young daughters.

Conclusion

The Clearwater Ferry crash remains under investigation. While Knight's attorney presents a detailed defense, the FWC's investigation will determine whether the actions of Jeff Knight constitute a hit-and-run. The tragic loss of Jose Castro and the injuries sustained by other passengers highlight the devastating consequences of boating accidents. The outcome of this case will likely have significant implications for maritime law and safety regulations.

This article will be updated as more information becomes available.