Charges Filed Against Jeff Knight for Fatal Clearwater Ferry Crash

Fatal Ferry Crash Investigation

• ⚖️ Jeffrey Knight, 62, has been arrested and charged with eight felony counts in connection with a deadly Clearwater ferry crash.
• 💔 The crash occurred on April 27th, involving a private boat colliding with a Clearwater ferry, resulting in the death of Jose Castro, 41, and injuries to 10 others.
• ⏳ The arrest follows months of investigation and calls for accountability from the victim's family.

Charges and Allegations

• 🚨 FWC announced Knight faces felony charges including leaving the scene of a boating accident involving death and serious injury.
• 🚤 Investigators found Knight's boat at the Bair Causeway boat ramp shortly after the incident, but no arrest was made at that time.
• ⚠️ Court documents initially suggested Knight left the scene because his boat was taking on water with an infant aboard, but FWC investigations found this to be contrary to the facts.

Victim's Family Response

• 🕊️ The family of Jose Castro released a statement expressing their continued grief but acknowledging the charges as a step toward accountability and justice.
• 😥 They shared that they are still grieving and did not deserve to lose their brother in such a manner.
• 🙏 The family hopes this case will deter others from acting recklessly on the water.

Legal and Business Ramifications

• 🏢 Jeffrey Knight is also known to own several businesses, including Janice Live in downtown St. Pete, from which he stepped down on April 30th.
• 📜 The first lawsuit against Knight was announced on May 7th, following the incident.
• 📰 FWC plans to hold a press conference regarding the arrest.