CLEARWATER, FL – Authorities have charged a man for leaving the scene after he rammed into the Clearwater Ferry near the Clearwater Memorial Causeway on April 17, according to FOX 13.
Jeffry Knight, 62, was driving a boat when he collided with the Clearwater Ferry. The ferry was occupied by 45 people. Several people were injured, and one man, Jose Castro, died.
Following the collision, Knight allegedly fled the scene in his boat. He told investigators he left the scene because his boat was taking on water. Passengers on Knight’s boat informed authorities that Knight attempted to prevent them from calling 911.
Authorities charged Knight with eight counts of felony leaving the scene of a boating accident involving death and serious injuries on Monday. He is also charged with failure to maintain a safe speed and failure to maintain a proper lookout, resulting in a fatal boating accident.
Let the Pinellas County boat accident lawyers at Whittel & Melton, LLC fight for you if you have lost a loved one in a boating accident caused by a negligent or reckless operator. Our team includes former prosecutors, public defenders, corporate lawyers, and more, ensuring effective handling of your case. You can schedule a free consultation with us to discuss the details of your case by completing our contact form or calling 866-608-5529.