Tampa Man Charged with BUI Manslaughter After Deadly Boat Crash

Pre-Trial Detention Hearing

• ⚖️ A pre-trial detention hearing was held for Travis Stewart, who is charged with BUI manslaughter following a fatal boat crash in July 2024.
• 🚤 Stewart was reportedly boating in Old Tampa Bay around 2:00 a.m. when the vessel struck what he believed to be a seawall or buoy, causing him to lose consciousness.

Disappearance and 911 Call

• ❓ Upon regaining consciousness, Stewart discovered his cousin, Jonathan Buckbolt, was missing from the boat and began searching for him.
• 🏠 Stewart then went to his parents' house and later his own home before a 911 call was eventually made.
• ⚠️ Investigators questioned the accuracy of Stewart's account, particularly regarding the crash location, noting inconsistencies in his statements.

Defense and Judicial Remarks

• 🧠 Stewart's attorney stated that his client suffered a traumatic brain injury and brain bleed, leading to diagnosed amnesia and confusion about the incident's details.
• 👨‍⚖️ The judge described Stewart's 911 call and statements to investigators as "cold, calculated, selfserving fiction" and called his actions "evil."
• 🔒 While not deemed a danger or flight risk, the judge promised a high bond with strict conditions due to the circumstances.