Clearwater Ferry Crash: Charges Filed Against Businessman and Captain, Victim's Family Speaks

Charges Filed in Deadly Clearwater Ferry Crash

• 📌 Jeffrey Knight, a Clearwater businessman, faces eight felony charges for leaving the scene of a boating accident involving death and serious injury.
• ⚠️ The captain of the Clearwater Ferry, Denise Kimmer, is charged with violating a navigation rule for failing to have a working stern light.
• 💔 The collision resulted in multiple injuries and the death of Jose Castro, a father of two.

Victim's Family Shares Grief and Hope

• 💔 Jose Castro's family is experiencing immense pain and grief three months after his death.
• 😔 His sister described him as a happy person, an amazing father, and a wonderful son who did not deserve to die this way.
• 🙏 The family is seeking peace and healing, stating that the charges are a first step in a long process.

Investigation and Defense Statements

• 🔍 The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) conducted a three-month investigation leading to Knight's arrest.
• 🗣️ Knight's attorney, Jay Kevin Hazes, disputes the claim that Knight fled the scene, stating he remained for over 11 minutes and assisted first responders.
• ⚖️ Hazes argues that the ferry's lack of stern lights is central to the collision, calling it a violation of federal safety standards.